How Arnold Schwarzenegger Gets Protein on Mostly Vegan Diet

Bodybuilding icon Arnold Schwarzenegger has moved away from meat in recent years, saying in a 2022 edition of his newsletter that the decision to eat 80% plant-based foods led to a dramatic reduction in his cholesterol levels. But that doesn't mean Schwarzenegger has given up on a muscle-building, protein-rich diet.

In an April episode of Arnold's Pump Club podcast, the movie star revealed his go-to protein sources to stay fit.

"For protein, my staples are eggs, salmon, and chicken. But I have more and more veggie burgers with lentils and beans," Schwarzenegger said. "I also use my Ladder Plan protein powder, powered by pea protein." The former governor co-founded sports nutrition company Ladder with LeBron James.

Schwarzenegger previously shared his favorite protein shake recipe with Men's Health, which consists of protein powder, cherry juice, almond milk, banana, and a raw, unpeeled egg. He also likes to include schnapps or tequila in his shakes, he told Insider's Rachel Hosie.

Schwarzenegger eats similar meals every day, spreading his protein intake throughout breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

"In the morning after my workout, I usually have oatmeal with Greek yogurt or granola. For lunch I always have a salad, sometimes with a plant-based burger or maybe salmon or chicken. Other times, it's with a scramble or omelette. For dinner, I always have soup. I like to eat light for my last meal," he said on the podcast.

Schwarzenegger's favorite veggie soup recipe includes chickpeas, low-fat yogurt, broth, olive oil, and herbs, he said in a recent newsletter.

But ultimately, Schwarzenegger said on the Pump Club podcast, his diet is boring, so if he strays occasionally and eats a big meal, it doesn't take him too far off track health-wise.

When Schwarzenegger wants a treat, he opts for Austrian wiener schnitzel, a steak, or a hamburger.

"My friends can tell you that I grill a fantastic New York Strip," he said.

Correction June 5, 2023 — An earlier version of this story misattributed Arnold Schwarzenegger's comment about adding alcohol to milkshakes. He told that detail to the Insider reporter Rachel Hosie, not Gabby Landsverk.