Over the years, celebrity chef Michael Symon has undergone a dramatic transformation, losing weight and getting fit.
However, this change was not primarily driven by a desire to shed pounds but rather by a serious health condition.
In 2012, Symon was diagnosed with lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, autoimmune disorders that can cause inflammation, joint pain, and fatigue.
Recognizing the need to take control of his health, Symon turned to diet as a solution.
He overhauled his eating habits, focusing on nutrient-dense whole foods that would help manage the symptoms of his condition.
The shift in Symon’s diet also helped him lose weight in a healthy, sustainable way.
The pounds began dropping off as he adopted a lifestyle centered around anti-inflammatory foods.
Coupled with a regular exercise routine, Symon’s transformation went beyond the number on the scale—he gained muscle, improved his cardiovascular fitness, and felt better overall.
Today, Symon is the picture of health, crediting his diet and workout plan with managing his lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
Key Takeaways
- Recognizing the need for prescription medications for RA, Symon pursued dietary interventions.
- Symon prioritizes a fitness routine of 5 days per week, with 3 days of weightlifting and 2 days of cardio.
- He lost 12 pounds and added muscle, proudly declaring he is “ready for the next 53 years” as “age is a number, nothing more.”
In his twenties, Michael Symon faced a dual diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and discoid lupus, a form of lupus affecting both skin and joints.
The sudden emergence of significant butterfly-shaped marks beneath his eyes prompted his medical journey.
Initially managing lupus with sun avoidance, Symon’s persistent joint symptoms led to a rheumatologist’s diagnosis of RA.
Over time, he found himself increasingly dependent on over-the-counter pain relievers to manage discomfort.
While recognizing the necessity of prescription medications for RA, Symon pursued an alternative approach, using his culinary expertise to explore dietary interventions.
Despite initial experimentation with a vegan diet to address inherited high cholesterol, he ultimately turned to medication for cholesterol management.
However, in managing his RA, Symon discovered significant relief by eliminating sugar and dairy despite residual discomfort in his hands.
While not a cure-all, his dietary modifications have markedly reduced joint pain.
In January 2018, he disclosed on ‘The Chew’ his adoption of an anti-inflammatory elimination eating plan, avoiding red meat, white flour, sugar, dairy, and alcohol.
Completing the reset left Symon feeling rejuvenated, unveiling dairy, sugar, and processed flours as potent inflammation triggers.
Through a disciplined commitment to this regimen, he found relief from inflammation, showcasing the power of mindful dietary choices in managing chronic conditions.
In addition to his dietary adjustments, Symon prioritizes exercise, preferring weightlifting as his primary regimen.
Working out five days a week, he dedicates three days to lifting and two days to cardio.
While maintaining consistency in his cardio routine, Symon regularly switches up his lifting regimen, focusing on two muscle groups per session.
Every two weeks, he rotates to a different exercise targeting the same muscle groups, ensuring comprehensive muscular development and variety in his routine.
Chef Michael Symon Impressive Fitness Transformation
Celebrity chef Michael Symon recently made waves on Instagram with a candid post showcasing his remarkable body transformation.
In a refreshingly honest caption, Symon admitted his initial reluctance to share the photo, humorously noting that he’d tease his friends if they did the same.
However, he ultimately decided to embrace the moment, proudly declaring,
“Hell with it…I have worked my ass off for the past 18 months to get in shape for my 53rd birthday.”
Despite being fashionably late to the party, Symon’s dedication to his fitness journey shines through.
The post revealed that he shed an impressive 12 pounds while adding muscle along the way.
With a mix of determination and humor, he expressed readiness for the next chapter, affirming,
“[I] am ready for the next 53 years…age is a number, nothing more.”
The chef’s dedication to his health and wellness journey is evident, and he appears proud of his progress.
FAQs
What is the Michael Symon Reset Diet?
The Michael Symon Reset Diet is an anti-inflammatory elimination diet that Symon adopted to help manage his autoimmune conditions of lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. The reset diet eliminates the following foods: Red meat, White flour, Sugar, Dairy, and Alcohol.
What Does Michael Symon Eat For Breakfast?
His breakfast includes a Puffy Omelette, Everything Bagel French Fries, and a straightforward Fall Salad dressed in Maple Vinaigrette. To top it off, he completes the meal with a refreshing Peach Bellini cocktail.
