Drew Barrymore has always been candid about her wellness journey, particularly the effort she puts into maintaining her health, confidence, and energy. As a mother with a multifaceted career as a talk show host, actress, producer, author, and businesswoman, sticking to a consistent fitness routine hasn't always been easy. Yet, it's during this busy phase of her life that Barrymore feels her best. Here's an in-depth look at Drew Barrymore's weight loss journey and how she prioritizes her health goals.
The Ups and Downs of Drew Barrymore’s Weight Loss Journey
In a 2020 Instagram post, Barrymore shared before-and-after photos of herself during and after pregnancy (she gave birth to her two daughters in 2012 and 2014, respectively), detailing the work she invested in losing weight and developing healthier habits. "I go up and I go down," she wrote in the caption. "The rollercoaster of my body is a challenging, but beautiful ride. I made two kids. The single most important purpose for me being on this planet is for them! It is a true miracle I was able to have these two girls. So whatever the aftermath on my body, well bring it on! That said, there have been times I have stood in my closet and just cried. Hated getting dressed. Didn’t feel good! It takes so much for me to look decent. I have to eat just right and work my ass off!"
Finding Balance
Barrymore emphasized her natural tendency to be bigger and cautioned her followers against comparing themselves to those who appear thin shortly after giving birth. "If I looked decent on anything I have done since I had my two kids, I have clawed my way there," she said. "You can too! However, it is hard to sustain and can take a lot of the joy out of life with food. But not anymore. NOW I have found that elusive B called BALANCE. 45! It only took 45 years to find myself. Right where I am supposed to be. And it’s not perfect. But it’s me. And most importantly, I want to share it with you.”
The Keys to Drew Barrymore’s Weight Loss Success
In 2017, Barrymore revealed that she had lost over 20 pounds while preparing to film her Netflix series, The Santa Clarita Diet. Here’s how she achieved this weight loss by adopting healthier habits:
Prioritizing Protein
Barrymore told Us Weekly that she had been loosely following the approach of vegan nutritionist Kimberly Snyder. While her diet was mostly plant-based, she made adjustments to maintain her protein intake. "I feel really great," she said. "I followed Kimberly Snyder’s methods, but I added some protein like fish and chicken since she’s all vegetarian or vegan. I’ve been very disciplined and all I did was cry and dream about pizza. I still am dreaming and crying about pizza," she joked.
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Starting the Day with Hot Lemon Water
That same year, Barrymore told Grubstreet that she considers a large glass of hot lemon water "a great way to jump-start your body for the day." Jennifer Nicole Bianchini, RD, a dietitian with Body to Soul Health, agrees that lemon water is often promoted as a weight loss-friendly drink for a good reason. "Lemons are loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress, boost the immune system and keep our cells functioning efficiently," she explains. "When cells are functioning optimally, metabolism runs more smoothly which helps in the fat-burning process."
Making Time for a Morning Workout
In a video posted to Instagram in 2020, the E.T. alum stated that there was "just no excuse" to skip a workout, even with constant travel and work commitments. She had been streaming fitness instructor Taryn Toomey’s The Class, which combines cardio, strength training, and mindfulness. Barrymore explained that the music and dance aspects of the workout boosted her motivation and energy. "Right here in your room, one hour, get it done, and I don't know about you, but if I don't get it done in the morning, it's not getting done," Barrymore told viewers. According to People, the Charlie’s Angels star said that she’s fine with eating very clean and doing an hour of Pilates "at least four days a week" to maintain her weight. "That is just my journey," she said.
Decompressing with Yoga
Barrymore also posted a video of herself in 2020 after a yoga class, sharing a revelation she had during her session. "Stillness is as powerful and thought-provoking and emotionally compelling as hurling yourself around, throwing yourself to music, working out your anger, working through things," she explained. "Being quiet and still can bring some of the most powerful things to our bodies than anything else. So I want to promote being a long, long, long-time yogie."
Drew Barrymore's Daily Diet
At 49 years old, Drew Barrymore shed 20 lbs after giving birth to her daughters Olive, 11, and Frankie, 10, attributing her weight loss to both diet and exercise. Here’s a closer look at what she eats for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks:
Breakfast
The 50 First Dates actress told Grubstreet that she likes to start her day with a glass of lemon water, saying, "It's a great way to jump-start your body for the day." Additionally, her Instagram suggests that she often eats avocado toast with red pepper flakes, olive oil, and sea salt.
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According to Hello, the Blended actress also enjoys mixing it up with eggs and fruit, and occasionally treats herself to pancakes or French toast when eating with her daughters or friends.
Lunch and Dinner
For lunch, the Never Been Kissed alum prefers quick and simple options such as a grain bowl, sushi, a veggie burrito, or a salad.
Her dinners are equally healthy. Barrymore regularly follows plant-based recipes from Kimberly Snyder, the author of Recipes for Your Perfectly Imperfect Life. However, she sometimes adds chicken for extra protein. "I followed Kimberly Snyder's methods, but I added some protein like fish and chicken since she's all vegetarian or vegan. I've been very disciplined," she told Us Weekly.
The Role of Marnie Alton in Drew Barrymore’s Fitness Journey
Drew Barrymore’s successful transformation also involved a partnership with fitness trainer Marnie Alton. With Alton’s guidance, she embraced a comprehensive fitness regime that included a mix of cardio, strength training, and mindfulness practices.
Drew Barrymore teamed up with Marnie Alton over 15 years ago. Their long-term partnership flourished as they developed a friendship based on trust and understanding. Marnie’s dedication to her clients’ health and fitness aligns perfectly with Drew’s goals. Marnie played a significant role in helping Drew shed 20 pounds, which Drew proudly shared on Instagram.
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The methods employed by Marnie Alton are a blend of physical exercise and mental well-being, crucial to Drew’s weight loss success. Her approach is not just about losing weight; it’s about healing and rejuvenation. This philosophy resonated with Drew, who credits Marnie with not only transforming her physical appearance but also boosting her overall well-being.
Drew Barrymore’s Fitness Routine: Exercise and Commitment
Drew incorporates a variety of exercises to keep her routine exciting and effective. By embracing a mix of cardio and strength training, she maintains a well-rounded fitness plan.
Consistency is at the heart of Drew’s fitness success. She makes working out a regular part of her lifestyle, highlighting the importance of routine in achieving fitness goals. Setting achievable goals and scheduling workouts ahead of time aids in maintaining this consistency. Drew knows that fitness is not just about intense workouts but also about cultivating a habit of activity.
Nutrition: A Balanced and Realistic Approach
Drew’s success stemmed largely from a personalized approach to her diet. Transitioning to a more plant-based, nutrient-dense routine helped her maintain a healthy balance and avoid processed foods, known for being calorie-rich and nutrient-poor. Her plan emphasized whole foods and minimized processed options. By prioritizing fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, she ensured her diet was both satisfying and effective.
Drew often shares her favorite recipes, which play a significant role in maintaining her health. One staple is her beloved hot water with lemon, a drink that’s refreshing and hydrating. Another favorite dish includes salads loaded with greens, nuts, and a variety of colorful vegetables. Drew’s approachable recipes reflect her embrace of a balanced lifestyle, making it accessible for anyone looking to adopt similar habits.
The Mental Health Aspect of Weight Loss
Mental health can greatly influence weight loss outcomes. For Drew Barrymore, a crucial part of her success was her shift in mindset. Instead of viewing weight loss as a task, she approached it as a positive lifestyle shift. Mindful practices like meditation and positive self-talk were integral in reducing stress and promoting a healthier relationship with food.
Emotional eating and stress can derail progress, but Drew’s strategy involved identifying these triggers and managing them. Achieving balance between mental health and wellness was crucial in Drew Barrymore’s transformation. By setting realistic goals and accepting that perfection isn’t necessary, she fostered a sustainable routine. Incorporating regular physical activity not just as a means to lose weight but as a way to feel good was part of her approach. Exercise became a tool for both physical and mental health, creating a positive feedback loop that fueled her journey.
Social Media and Inspiration
Drew Barrymore has embraced social media, especially Instagram, to openly share her weight loss journey. Her posts often provide glimpses into her daily routines, highlighting the workouts and dietary habits she’s adopted. One significant post drew attention for its candidness, showing her sweaty and smiling after a workout. This transparency allows followers to feel connected, contributing to a supportive community that rallies around her progress.
The visual impact of Drew’s transformation is most apparent in her shared before-and-after pictures. In these images, Drew radiates confidence, which many admire and find inspirational. The photos are more than just documentation; they represent a deeper change in body image and self-perception.
Career Influence: Santa Clarita Diet
While playing Sheila Hammond in the hit comedy series Santa Clarita Diet, Drew Barrymore found herself deeply inspired by her character’s energy and transformation. The show’s demanding nature required physical preparedness and resilience. The comedy series not only required her to maintain energy levels for frenetic scenes but also sparked an increased interest in overall wellness. This proactive approach thrived in her daily life, advocating a balance of exercise and nutrition. Her commitment to fitness extended beyond personal gains, engaging with fans and sharing insights into her healthier lifestyle choices.
Portraying Sheila Hammond required Drew to adopt new habits that aligned with her character’s vivacious lifestyle. Off the screen, she took these adaptations seriously, viewing them as opportunities for real individualized change. Moving from fictional inspiration to tangible action, she infused her routine with exercises that bolstered her health and aligned with her character’s traits. Drew utilized her character’s qualities to motivate her journey, making fitness a priority amidst her busy career. These lifestyle changes were supported by healthy eating habits, integral for her performance both on and off the set.
Cardio and Exercise Milestones
Drew has made cardio a cornerstone of her fitness routine. She incorporates activities such as running, cycling, and swimming, which are not only effective for weight loss but also offer mental benefits.
- Running: Often shared on her social media, running is a staple for Drew.
- Cycling and Swimming: These low-impact exercises complement her routine, adding variance and preventing workout monotony.
Drew has achieved several milestones in her fitness journey that highlight her commitment and perseverance.
Weight Lifting: Initially intimidating, Drew gradually introduced weight lifting into her routine.
Consistency: Drew credits her progress to maintaining a consistent workout schedule.
Motherhood and Weight Journey
After the births of her two daughters, Drew encountered the familiar struggle of post-pregnancy weight management. Juggling her roles as a mother and a working actress was not easy. Emphasizing the significance of a nutrient-dense diet, she leaned towards whole foods to fuel her busy days. Drew often speaks about the ups and downs she faced with maintaining a positive body image.
Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle: Consistency and Support
Consistency is critical in keeping the momentum of a health and fitness journey. Drew’s commitment to a plant-based, nutrient-dense diet played a significant role in her transformation. By focusing on whole foods, she nourished her body sustainably.
For a successful shift, integrating exercise into daily routines is essential. Whether through yoga, walking, or structured workouts, maintaining physical activity keeps the body fit and motivated.
Having a supportive network can make a significant difference in maintaining lifestyle changes. Drew often shares her experiences with fans, drawing strength and motivation from her community. Building a supportive environment means surrounding oneself with positive influences. This can include friends, family, or online communities dedicated to health and fitness. Being part of a supportive network can be pivotal, as it encourages adherence to a new lifestyle and offers a platform for exchanging tips, recipes, and motivation.
Drew Barrymore’s transformation journey showcases a practical and deeply personal approach to health. She’s embraced a balanced routine, sharing with fans on the Drew Barrymore Show how this shift wasn’t just about weight but a journey back to herself. After giving birth to her two kids, she found a renewed drive to stay healthy, incorporating simple yet effective practices into her life. Her favorite go-tos include a vegan twist on French toast and nutrient-packed dishes cooked in olive oil, which have helped her shed pounds while still enjoying her food. As she puts it, this isn’t a diet but just her journey, influenced by her past life experiences and the genuine joy she finds in nutritious meals.