CEO Sheds 15 Pounds After 50 by Rethinking Breakfast and Lunch

Carl Daikeler, the 63-year-old co-founder and CEO of the fitness and nutrition company BODi, formerly known as Beachbody, has found a way to shed 15 stubborn pounds without completely overhauling his diet.

Daikeler, who admits to preferring simpler foods, stated in an interview with Fox News Digital that he doesn't identify as a strict health enthusiast. "I eat like a third-grader, okay? Pizza’s a food group," he joked. "I’m just constantly trying to figure out how can I hack my way without having to overturn my life to become one of those die-hard health and fitness people, because I’m never going to become that."

When Daikeler approached 57, he found himself struggling to lose 15 pounds he had gained. Instead of adopting a restrictive diet, he modified his breakfast and lunch, leaving his dinner routine largely unrestricted.

For breakfast, Daikeler replaced his usual options with a nutrient-dense shake, Shakeology, which he describes as containing protein, fiber, prebiotics, probiotics, and greens, totaling around 250 calories. He often adds spinach and a banana to his shake.

His lunch consists of a large salad featuring baby spinach, carrots, and chicken. He enhances the flavor with toppings like cheese, nuts, and strawberries, stating, "I don’t feel like I’m eating a bowl of vegetables, but I am."

By structuring these two meals, Daikeler found he had more freedom for dinner. "Now I’ve got a ‘day pass’ for everything else … I eat whatever I want at dinner," he explained. He does, however, limit his alcohol intake.

"Once I did that — Shakeology for breakfast, a big salad for lunch, total freedom for dinner, limited alcohol — the 15 pounds just got wiped out. And it stayed off," Daikeler said.

Daikeler believes that overly restrictive nutrition plans are often unsustainable. "If you’re trying to be too restrictive, I don’t think that’s life," he stated. "The whole point is living … So if it’s too restrictive, it’s going to break."

He advocates for portion control and mindful eating for indulgence foods. "I love pizza. But I’ve learned that I can enjoy pizza without eating the whole pizza," he said. "I like doughnuts. I’ve learned that I can have literally a quarter of a doughnut and be like, that was delicious. But I get no additional satisfaction by eating the whole doughnut."

This approach aligns with Daikeler's focus on "health span" – emphasizing quality of life and maintaining activity as one ages. "Health span versus lifespan is all about quality of life," he said. "I’m all for longevity, but it’s really about quality of life — a way to live and enjoy life that is balanced with maximizing your time on earth."

The National Institutes of Health suggests that while various eating plans can support weight loss, the most effective strategy is personalized based on individual health needs, preferences, and long-term adherence. Consulting a doctor or registered dietitian is generally recommended for tailored guidance.