We’re talking all about this famous plant-forward eating plan!
If we listed every diet available, we might just break the internet. From keto and Mediterranean to carnivore and medically prescribed diets, our social media feeds are saturated with so many ways to eat. Of course, we cannot forget about the vegan and plant-based diets also circulating online, including the famous 80/20 plant-based diet. Even within the realm of plant-based eating, there are so many diet variations to consider!
Following a diet is a personal decision, as there are no one-size-fits-all recommendation within the scope of nutrition. So when it comes to plant-based eating, it’s no wonder that some people follow raw vegan diets, whole food plant-based diets, “junk food” vegan diets, and flexible eating patterns like the 80/20 plant-based diet. If flexibility intrigues you, keep reading. We’re talking all about the 80/20 plant-based diet and why so many celebrities swear by it!
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What is the 80/20 Plant-Based Diet?
The 80/20 plant-based diet is a flexible, plant-focused diet that allows for the occasional consumption of non-plant foods. Those following this diet choose plant-based foods the majority of the time and keep consumption of non-vegan products to a minimum. While there’s no tracking necessary, the diet shakes out to be plant-based about 80% of the time and animal-based the remaining 20% of the time, allowing for flexibility and ease.
So, while it’s not a fully vegan diet, it is heavily rooted in plant-based foods and therefore a benefit to our health, environment, and animal welfare. Plus, it can be used as a stepping stone ahead of transitioning to a fully vegan diet if and when ready. Interested? You’re not alone! Some of your favorite celebrities are obsessed with the 80/20 plant-based diet, too!
Why Do So Many Celebrities Swear By the 80/20 Diet?
Rumor has it that celebrities like Tom Brady, Leonardo DiCaprio, Drew Barrymore, Kourtney Kardashian, and John Goodman follow the 80/20 plant-based diet. While we can’t assume they owe their careers to this high-quality eating pattern, this diet might just be the performance-enhancing cherry on top of all their hard work. The 80/20 plant-based diet is naturally rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, all of which tote major health benefits.
Celebrities love this diet because it is flexible and allows them to eat nutrient-rich plant foods the majority of the time, but also pivot when necessary. Think: during production, on tour, and while traveling. So, whether you’re up on celebrity news or not, you may find these famous anecdotes to be inspiring. If you’re interested in transitioning to a more plant-focused lifestyle, the 80/20 plant-based diet might be a good fit.
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How to Follow This Flexible Plant-Based Diet
Feeling intimidated by a vegan diet or unsure where to start? Consider beginning with the 80/20 plant-based diet! You don’t need to be a wealthy, high-profile celebrity to lean on those nutrient-dense fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, soy foods, nuts, and seeds. In fact, when executed with proper planning, these plant-based diets can also be an economical choice!
Plus, the 80/20 plant-based diet is super forgiving—there’s no right or wrong way to do it. Our best advice is to start small with simple swaps. For example, transition one meal per day, like breakfast, to plant-based alternatives. As you get more comfortable, scale those vegan cooking skills to other meals, referencing tasty recipes from digital creators and vegan cookbook authors.
Once you get the hang of this flexible plant-based diet and you’re ready to take the fully vegan leap, be sure to check out our guide: How to Go Vegan! We’re here to support you no matter where you are in your journey!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider or registered dietitian before making any significant changes to your diet or lifestyle. Individual nutritional needs and health concerns may vary, and what works for one person may not be appropriate for another.
