We’ve done the modelFIT workout before (and loved it), but of course, that’s just one part of the fitness equation. So an important question remained: What does a runway model eat when she’s prepping for weeks of runway shows? That would fall to Packer, who heads modelFIT’s nutrition and wellness program. Here, she reveals her insider tips to keeping her model clients slim and energized. (Spoiler alert: There is chocolate.)
It’s not how many calories you eat, but how you eat them.
“I never count calories. I base my meal plans and system of eating on seasonality, alkalinity, and food combining. The last is probably most important, because it ensures proper digestion: With food combining, it’s important not to mix proteins and carbohydrates in the same meal as it will impede proper digestion and cause bloating, gas, and constipation.”
Your meals should start light, and get heavier as the day goes on.
“Begin your day with warm water and lemon followed by a juice or smoothie, which will boost alkalinity [aka your body’s best natural pH balance for cells to thrive], give you energy with raw living vitamins and minerals, and will hydrate you and prep you for the day ahead. For lunch, I like to keep it light with a salad with vegetables—if you want to include a bit of protein, you can add grilled salmon or some hard boiled eggs. Dinner is my heaviest meal. I always begin with a leafy green salad before my entree. I usually opt for either a hearty grain bowl with lots of vegetables, or I’ll do fish or lamb with roasted veggies on the side. My go-to dessert is organic dark chocolate. ”
Stay hydrated—just not at mealtimes.
“It’s important to drink water throughout the day, but not as much while eating so you don’t flush away all the important enzymes in your mouth and esophagus.”
Snack if you must—but make it count.
“I’m not a big snacker because I think it’s important to sit down and enjoy a meal; your body responds better to that. However, if you are a gal on the go, try packing some crudité with hummus or smashed avocado, or even summer rolls are a great option.”
But avoid THIS snack at all costs. “Don’t reach for nuts as a midday snack—it’s one thing I try to steer people away from, and they are always surprised. Yes, they have healthy fats and are packed with protein, but they are very heavy on the digestive system and very dehydrating. Also, if you opt for roasted instead of raw, they become very fattening because the oil found in the nuts is compromised when heated.
If you absolutely need to have nuts, only have a handful and make sure they are raw and organic. And, make sure you hydrate afterwards.”
Make sure you steer clear of these bloat offenders.
“I recommend avoiding carbonated beverages. They make you gassy and bloated, and some say they can cause cellulite. I also tell my clients to stay away from dairy as it is very mucus-producing, and can cause bloat and constipation for the people who don’t digest it properly. Fried foods are always a big no-no. regardless of the date or season.
Maintaining high energy levels is actually simpler than you think.
“Stay hydrated, eat light through the day, and opt for sustainable caffeine options like green tea. Also, make sure you are getting the proper amount of sleep.”
NOW is the time to get on those healthy habits.
“Fashion Week is an important time to stay on top of your game, especially with all the parties and goings-on—but it’s also a time when people usually break out of their healthy routines. Before fashion week is a great time to get your body on track by eating properly, getting lots of sleep, and working out, so if you don’t have time during the mayhem at least you know you put in the work before.
And when the mayhem does commence, let this superfood give you a boost.
“I am loving matcha these days. I feel like it gives my metabolism (and energy levels) a nice kick.”
To go along with your improved diet, keep mixing up your workout.
“I love yoga, Pilates, and running. A combination is important so you create dynamic muscles and work different parts of your body. This will yield better results.”
And finally, keep that mood running high.
“Meditation is an incredible healer and all-around mood balancer. I think hot baths are really soothing and an easy way to give yourself some pampering at home, and to get some ‘me’ time.”
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