Anthony Bourdain, a celebrated chef, author, and the charismatic host of the acclaimed cooking and travel TV show Parts Unknown, captivated audiences with his sharp wit, adventurous spirit, and insatiable curiosity. Beyond his culinary expertise and storytelling prowess, Bourdain's physique and lifestyle choices often sparked curiosity, especially considering his frequent indulgence in rich foods and alcoholic beverages during his travels. This article explores the various facets of Anthony Bourdain's diet, exercise habits, and lifestyle, revealing the secrets behind his seemingly paradoxical health and vitality.
The Bourdain Paradox: Indulgence and a Lean Physique
Many marveled at Bourdain's ability to maintain a trim figure despite his globetrotting adventures and penchant for savoring local cuisines. He stood tall at 1.93 meters and maintained a weight of around 78 kg. How did he manage to stay so lean while seemingly defying conventional dietary wisdom?
Dietary Habits: A Balancing Act
Bourdain's dietary habits were far from restrictive. In an interview, he revealed that when traveling, he typically consumed two large meals a day. He embraced the local culinary customs, often indulging in multiple courses, especially when he was the guest of honor in countries like China and Italy. He made a point of finishing what was on his plate, viewing it as a sign of respect for the hosts who were generously sharing their best dishes.
However, when he wasn't working, Bourdain followed a more streamlined approach. He famously quipped that his breakfast consisted of "coffee and a ciggie." He found that two good meals a day were sufficient for him. He admitted to favoring meals rich in meat, cheese, and alcohol. While he wasn't particularly fond of vegetables unless they were cooked in duck fat, he wasn't one to deprive himself.
Interestingly, Bourdain found solace in the Atkins diet, suggesting a preference for protein-rich foods. He also revealed that he didn't snack and wasn't particularly fond of sweets or desserts. He humorously referred to his eating plan as the "Keith Richards exercise plan," alluding to the Rolling Stones guitarist's infamous reputation for defying conventional health norms.
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The "No S" Diet Influence
Some observers noted that Bourdain's dietary habits aligned with the principles of the "No S" diet, which emphasizes abstaining from snacks and sweets. This approach, whether consciously adopted or not, likely contributed to his ability to maintain a healthy weight despite his occasional indulgences.
Metabolism, Neuroticism, and Other Factors
Bourdain himself offered several explanations for his lean physique. He attributed it to a combination of factors, including a high metabolism, a hyperactive nature, and a tendency to chain-smoke. He also admitted to being reasonably vain, which motivated him to eat less when he felt he was gaining weight.
He also stated that he didn't have a compelling need to eat three full meals a day. He also didn't have lunch a lot of the time, but other times he was at a 22-course tasting meal. He pointed out that life is different every day.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: A Transformative Addiction
While diet played a role in Bourdain's health and physique, his dedication to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) was arguably the most significant factor. He discovered the martial art later in life, thanks to his then-wife, Ottavia Busia, who introduced him to it as a way to regain fitness after childbirth.
Bourdain initially approached BJJ with skepticism, but he soon found himself captivated by its strategic and intellectual challenges. He enjoyed being a beginner and relished the constant learning process. What started as a casual experiment quickly evolved into a full-blown passion.
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The Physical and Mental Benefits
Bourdain recognized the profound physical benefits of BJJ. He acknowledged that regular warmups and sparring sessions whipped him into shape. He also emphasized that it was the hardest thing he'd ever done. Beyond the physical aspects, BJJ also provided him with a mental outlet. He described himself as an addict and found that BJJ satisfied his craving for intensity and focus.
Matt Walsh, who collaborated with Bourdain on episodes in Asia, noted that finding BJJ gyms for Bourdain to train at was part of his job. He believed that "idle time was bad for him because idle time perhaps gave him the opportunity to do things he shouldn't do, or think thoughts he shouldn't think." BJJ kept his body healthy and his mind occupied, preventing him from falling into unhealthy patterns.
A Badge of Honor
Bourdain embraced the challenges and risks associated with BJJ. He recounted tearing a groin muscle and experiencing the usual bruises, black eyes, and cauliflower ear. He even considered his cauliflower ear a "badge of honor."
Humility
He also stated that he didn’t think about being fit. He thought about being able to do jiu-jitsu well. He also stated that he wasn't looking in the mirror and thinking that he needed to work on that arm. He said that he was 61 and didn't have that kind of vanity.
Lifestyle: Travel, Work, and the Fear of Idleness
Bourdain's lifestyle was characterized by constant travel, demanding work schedules, and a fear of idleness. He admitted to traveling approximately two hundred days a year for fifteen years. He confessed that he was "incapable" of providing the consistent care and attention required of close friendships due to his relentless travel schedule.
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When asked why he worked so much and rarely took a break, Bourdain explained that he was afraid of an "inner hippie" taking over his life. This fear of stagnation and a desire to remain engaged and productive fueled his relentless pursuit of new experiences and culinary adventures.
The Darker Side: Addiction and Mental Health
While Bourdain projected an image of confidence and adventure, he also struggled with addiction and mental health issues. He openly discussed his past struggles with drug addiction and acknowledged his reliance on cigarettes and alcohol.
His friend Matt Walsh suggested that Bourdain used BJJ to combat his addictive tendencies and keep his mind occupied. However, Bourdain's inner demons ultimately proved too powerful.