Shaquille O’Neal recently spoke with Men’s Health magazine about how he eats and keeps healthy as he approaches his 50s. The former NBA Hall Of Fame resident may be past his days on the court, but he still plans on staying fighting fit. To do so, O’Neal described the high-protein and low-carb diet that he uses to stay in shape.
According to O’Neal, protein is where he puts most of his attention when planning his meals. Earlier this year the all-star athlete explained that he had cut out everything except protein, fruits, and vegetables to help him lose weight and get back in shape after 15 years of steady weight gain.
O’Neal is now on the cusp of 50 and with the change of age comes new fitness goals. According to O’Neal, when talking to Men’s Health, his goal is to “take my shirt off one time, show the ladies how fine I am, and put it back on”.
O’Neal explained that he drinks a simple protein shake to assist him with his goals. The smoothie recipe contains blueberries, bananas, and peanut butter. The recipe provides a solid amount of fiber, potassium, and antioxidants which are provided by the blueberries and bananas.
But the smoothie is just a small part of his daily breakfast. Alongside that healthy smoothie, the athlete also consumes four scrambled eggs and two turkey sausages.
O’Neal said he eats four scrambled eggs and two pieces of turkey sausage for breakfast. Experts say that breakfasts high in protein can help with weight loss, the protein helps to keep you feeling fuller for longer and can prevent cravings that come later in the day.
For lunch and dinner O’Neal has a healthy helping of salmon or chicken. A portion of salmon is about 25% protein and further helps with cravings and weight loss.