After Prolonged Years of a Meat-Based Diet, Arnold Schwarzenegger Had Life-Risking Reasons to Turn Vegan

Arnold Schwarzenegger, the young boy from the quaint town of Thal, wanted to etch his name in the history books of bodybuilding. A picture of Reg Park’s bulging muscles mesmerized him. In 1968, Arnie went to South Africa to train with his idol, who taught him many life lessons. Eventually, he moved to the shores of America, rising to fame as a bodybuilder, actor, and politician. During his prime, the Austrian Oak’s diet was protein-heavy to build a magnificently carved physique that won him seven Sandow trophies. However, Arnie’s diet has changed over the years, an adaptation to his life-threatening health risks. 

The 76-year-old’s diet is 80 percent vegan. That does not mean the former governor does not eat protein; the sources are different. Moreover, the bodybuilding behemoth has been a vocal advocate for a sustainable lifestyle and healthy living. He intertwines his experiences with credible research to help people lead a robust life.

Arnold Schwarzenegger keeps his heart healthy

At 20, the “FUBAR” actor won Mr. Universe, surprising everyone with his charismatic presence. There was no stopping the fitness icon from there on. By 1970, he won his first Mr. Olympia title after a fierce showdown with Sergio Oliva, a feat he would continue until 1975 and then again in 1980 one more time. Furthermore, the Austrian Oak started a fitness revolution and institutionalized the sports through his star power. His career as a strength athlete demanded a focus on muscle-building macros.

The Pumping Iron (1977) documentary made Schwarzenegger a household name, along with others like Lou Ferrigno. Then, the dogged individual set his eye on a career in acting, having achieved all he could in strength sports. Even when portraying the characters of T-800 or Conan, Arnie ate a meat-rich diet, although he tweaked his physique to suit the characters. However, aging and health scares made the philanthropist rethink his meals. Additionally, during his stint as a Governor Arnie became an environmentalist. He learned the harmful impact of meat consumption on nature. 

Leading through three major heart surgeries, the 7x Mr. Olympia needed to keep his heart healthy. Years of rigor put a strain on his body. He also suffered from a congenital heart issue. The first of his three surgeries happened in 1997 when he was shooting for Batman and Robin. The second took place in 2018, and the third in 2020. Thus, Arnie needed to control his cholesterol levels, which is why he became 80% vegan. In an April edition of the Arnold Pump Club podcast, the former bodybuilder underscored the importance of being “flexible” in choosing a protein source. He said, “New Research suggests that it doesn’t matter if you eat plant protein or animal protein, both dieting styles can deliver similar body transformation results.” Moreover, resolving the doubts of subscribers, he spoke about his own choice of food. 

Schwarzenegger chooses plant-based protein sources

Arnold Schwarzenegger never believed in counting calories or using fads in his hay days. The aesthetic behemoth would base his diet on intuitive eating, focusing on proteins. But now his pattern has changed to include more plant-based macros.

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He spoke at length about his meal plan in the podcast. “For protein, my staples are eggs, salmon, and chicken. But I have more and more veggie burgers with lentils and beans,” revealed Arnie. Furthermore, the Predator Killer added, “In the morning after my workout, I usually have oatmeal with Greek yogurt or granola. For lunch, I always have a salad, sometimes with a plant-based burger or maybe salmon or chicken. Other times, it’s with a scramble or omelet. For dinner, I always have soup. I like to eat light for my last meal.” 

Arnie’s routine is set, and he does not like to deviate too much from the pattern. Schwarzenegger occasionally treats himself to burgers and steaks. To keep his heart healthy and lower cholesterol levels, whole grains and leafy vegetables have become an intrinsic part of his meals. And, now the iconic actor educates close to 5 million subscribers on the importance of cardiovascular health through his newsletter, which includes a combination of diet, exercise, and sleep. 

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