Simone Biles' Intuitive Eating Philosophy
Unlike many elite athletes who meticulously track calories and macros, Simone Biles has adopted a more mindful and flexible approach to her diet. Citing the potential for restrictive eating to lead to eating issues among gymnasts, she told Women's Health that she eats "what I feel good with" and avoids overeating. This intuitive eating mindset means listening to her body’s hunger cues and nutritional needs, rather than adhering to a rigid meal plan. This balance is key to her sustained success and overall well-being, both inside and outside the gym.
A Typical Day of Eating for Simone Biles
Due to her demanding training schedule, which can span seven to eight hours a day, Biles' meals are structured around maximizing energy and recovery. A typical weekday morning might begin early with a light breakfast, or sometimes no breakfast at all if practice starts particularly early. Hydration, primarily water, is a constant priority throughout her training sessions.
Breakfast: On days with more time, Biles might enjoy protein waffles with chocolate chips, eggs, or even cinnamon rolls. For a quick and easy start, she often opts for oatmeal or fresh fruit.
Post-Workout Fuel: After an intense training session, Biles refuels with a protein shake, often a Core Power Vanilla High Protein Milk Shake. This helps her muscles recover quickly and replenishes lost electrolytes.
Lunch: Lunch is typically a protein and fiber-rich meal. Favorites include salmon or chicken with a variety of vegetables such as broccoli, green beans, or her personal favorite, potatoes. When her schedule is packed, she will often order takeout via an app.
Snacks: If hunger strikes between meals, Biles keeps her options varied. Her healthy choices include fruit like grapes, strawberries, or bananas, while more indulgent options include pretzels with Nutella, popcorn, and homemade banana muffins. Plantain chips are also a favorite snack.
Dinner: Dinner is a time to wind down and enjoy a satisfying meal. Options include grilled chicken or salmon with roasted vegetables and a side of mac and cheese or rice. Her husband, Jonathan Owens, often cooks for them. On nights when she wants a "less healthy" meal, she enjoys pizza or fettuccine Alfredo with chicken.
Training Day vs. Weekend Indulgences
Biles' approach to food is all about balance, making space for nutrient-rich meals during the week and more relaxed, comfort-focused meals on weekends or after big competitions. Her Instagram bio even jokingly labels her a "pizza connoisseur".
| Meal Category | Training Day Focus | Weekend & Post-Competition Treats |
|---|---|---|
| Breakfast | Quick and energizing (oatmeal, fruit) | Leisurely and comforting (protein waffles, cinnamon rolls) |
| Lunch/Dinner | Lean protein, vegetables, complex carbs | Favorites like pizza, fettuccine Alfredo, burgers from Whataburger |
| Snacks | Fruit, protein shakes, plantain chips | Pretzels with Nutella, popcorn, banana muffins |
| Dessert | Typically none, or a small indulgence | Homemade s'mores cookies, ice cream, baked goods |
| Drinks | Water, protein shakes | Water, occasional glass of wine or margarita |
The Role of Indulgence in Peak Performance
Some might be surprised by the inclusion of foods like pizza and s'mores cookies in an elite athlete's diet, but Biles shows that a balanced approach is more sustainable than extreme restriction. Allowing for occasional indulgences helps maintain a healthy relationship with food and prevents the mental and physical burnout that can come with constant deprivation. This flexibility is part of what makes her diet so effective for her, both physically and mentally.
It's also worth noting her family's involvement in her healthy eating. When she's not dining out, her husband, Jonathan Owens, often prepares meals for them, focusing on simple yet satisfying dishes like chicken or salmon with vegetables. This partnership supports her nutritional needs while also fitting into their busy schedules.
For more insights into Biles' career and mindset, the official Olympics website is a great resource. You can find information on her training and overall approach to sports on the Olympics.com portal.
Conclusion: Fueling a Champion's Success
In conclusion, Simone Biles' daily diet is a testament to the power of intuitive, balanced eating. By prioritizing high-quality fuel like lean proteins, plenty of vegetables, and hydrating well, she supports her body's immense energy needs. At the same time, her willingness to enjoy her favorite comfort foods and treats shows that a healthy diet doesn't require constant deprivation. This flexible approach allows her to perform at an elite level while maintaining a positive and healthy relationship with food, a vital component of her long-term success and resilience.
