SUMMARY
- Lewis Hamilton embraces veganism for a healthier lifestyle, defying protein concerns.
- The 39-year-old driver maintains peak performance with a plant-based diet.
It has been a while since Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton chose a better lifestyle with a vegan diet. In 2017, Hamilton made a life-changing shift to veganism despite concerns from doctors about potential protein deficiency. Previously, as a young F1 racer, he relied on animal products for fuel, but now, his diet primarily consists of plant-based foods.
Despite being the second oldest driver on the grid, the Briton attributes much of his consistency on track to his plant-based diet. His decision stemmed partly from ethical concerns about animal cruelty and a desire for a healthier lifestyle. Like his peers in F1, Hamilton understands the necessity of maintaining an optimal weight to maximize car performance.
Inside Lewis Hamilton’s winning vegan diet
For lunch and dinner, Hamilton prefers vegetable-based salads and plant-based curries, occasionally indulging in Middle-Eastern fare like falafels. Interestingly, falafels and hummus have become his newfound favorite snacks, along with vegan protein bars. The 39-year-old vigilantly monitors his sugar intake, limiting it to just six grams daily.
Lewis Hamilton, a renowned Formula 1 racing driver, adopted a vegan diet around 2017. He has cited several reasons for making this change, including concerns for his health, the environment, and animal welfare. pic.twitter.com/ZKHVTBv0pL
— Plant Based News (@PlantBasedNews) November 17, 2023
Hamilton likes to indulge in sweet items primarily through fruits while cutting out common items like bread and pasta. He has replaced meat with vegetarian alternatives such as lentils, vegetables, and nuts. The 7x champion emphasizes avocado-based meals like avocado toast for breakfast and smoothies rich in plant-based protein for energy replenishment.
While speaking to Men’s Health UK, Hamilton said, “I have more energy; I’m so much more productive. I wake up feeling way better, clearer in thought, and fresher in my body. I recover quicker; I sleep better. My skin cleared up. I have fewer allergies. There are just so many impacts. I’m physically in better shape than I’ve ever been…my plant-based program has played such a big role in that.”
His dinner options also include whole wheat pasta paired with vegetables, tempeh served with ravioli, and baked sweet potato alongside a quinoa patty and fresh kale.
Lewis Hamilton debunked the truth behind veganism and weight gain
Previously, focus on maintaining a well-balanced diet was not one of the priorities of Formula 1 drivers. But as times change with rapidly advancing technologies, drivers have realized the importance of eating healthy items. Being a vegan for some time now, Hamilton addressed a common misconception about veganism in an Instagram post a while ago.
Champion Formula One racing driver Lewis Hamilton speaks the truth! 🏆🏎 So many people we come across say that switching to a vegan diet is one of the best decisions they’ve ever made.
Happy birthday, @LewisHamilton! 🎂Thank you for using your platform to speak up for animals. pic.twitter.com/RStfEHpmHV
— Mercy For Animals (@MercyForAnimals) January 7, 2024
He maintained a steady weight of around 150lb for 14 years but gained muscle mass 5 years ago, reaching 165lb. He debunked the notion that vegans lack protein for strength-building, highlighting his own experience. According to the driver, “Adding weight was easy and I did this on a vegan diet. People say ‘Oh I need my protein and that’s why I could never go vegan’. I have plenty of protein in my diet and I’ve gained muscle, and I’m healthier and happier than I’ve ever been.”
Hamilton confessed he would have adopted a vegan diet earlier if he had known its benefits. He credited this dietary shift for improving his overall well-being.