Taking a closer look at LeBron James’ strict diet and eating habits that intimidate NBA players:
“And to be ready for the game, I might have a protein smoothie and some fruit.” James compared himself to swimmer Michael Phelps, who is renowned for consuming massive omelets, stacks of pancakes, and full-size pizzas while in training. “After the game, wait for that. Something cannot be done prior to the game.”
According to Stack, the NBA player slightly modifies his strategy during the playoffs. “The sweets are what I’ve started limiting. The recovery process is somewhat slowed down when it comes to the playoffs. It’s acceptable to consume a small amount of it during the regular season. Nevertheless, in the postseason, optimum recovery—whoever can bounce back the quickest from game to game will position themselves to succeed in the following game,” he added in a video on his UNINTERRUPTED website.
LeBron James went on to explain: “So I kind of reduced my sugar intake, but I kind of increased my carb intake. Because while playing those games, you are using all of your energy and losing a great deal of calories. I, therefore, tend to eat a lot of carbohydrates because they offer you energy. I’ve had success with it.” After a game, James reportedly rehydrates by drinking water mixed with a recovery drink high in carbohydrates provided by his personal trainer, Mike Mancias.
According to CBS Sports, this helps to restore his glycogen levels, which are a type of carbohydrate stored in the liver and muscle tissue, aiding in supplying the body with energy.
James then has a meal that is similar to his pre-game meal, containing high-quality protein and carbs.
King James was rumored to have ordered beverages from The Juice Spot after working out. His wife, Savannah, operated the now-defunct juice bar, which served acai bowls, smoothies, and juices. James was photographed drinking a “Peanut Butter Dream” smoothie that included almond milk, peanut butter, whey, maca, cinnamon, and agave.
LeBron James also enjoys a nice glass of wine, as evidenced by his Instagram. He admitted to drinking wine “very much every day” to ESPN, and Kevin Love, a former teammate of James with the Cleveland Cavaliers, mentioned that James had a “supercomputer in his head” when it comes to wine.
While studies may vary, most medical professionals agree that drinking red wine in moderation has health benefits, including raising levels of the good HDL cholesterol and reducing the risk of a heart attack. This is why James used the hashtag “#GoodForMyHeart” in one of his images.
LeBron James is said to indulge in Blaze Pizza despite owning a franchise, investing in the business, and being paid to promote it. His “Homemade” pizza featured an impressive 16 toppings when he ordered it there in 2016, including fresh basil, turkey meatballs, banana peppers, and kalamata olives, among others. He even shared a copy of his receipt from that order.
As for his preferred shake, as previously reported by Men’s Health, it has a Reese’s cup and banana flavor profile. This shake not only offers energy to endure countless Michael Jordan comparisons but also provides 26 grams of protein for muscle development and heart-healthy fats from the peanut butter.
