How did you get to be involved with the Seven Day Grape Shape Healthy Eating Plan?
I really wanted to change the way that I thought about food, and also support something Australian that is good for you. Also – the fact that I have a sweet tooth, made grapes appealing to me.
What does a regular day’s eating involve for Libby Trickett?
Right through my 20s, I used to eat three big meals each day. But now, eating five regular meals a day keeps both the engine and my metabolism going.
I start the day with three or four eggs – sometimes I mix it up with two eggs, mushrooms and spinach. For a mid-morning snack, I’ll have some nuts and grapes. Lunch is either a chicken wrap or a salad. For afternoon tea, I’ll have a tin of tuna, and more grapes. And I like to keep dinner simple, with either fish or chicken, and a side of vegies.
Do you find it hard sticking to a regular eating plan?
I try to stick to it as much as possible – but you can’t t always do it, so I have one ‘cheat day’ a week. I spend six days eating very lean, fresh and sensible, so a day to let the body relax is good for you. I don’t go too crazy – because I eat so well all week, I don’t crave the really bad stuff. That’s a crucial thing – to really listen to your body and what it wants.
Do you pair any other fitness with swimming?
Leading up to the Olympics, I was training at an elite level, which involves 34 hours a week; seven sessions in the water, two bike sessions, two gym sessions, two run sessions, upper core training, and one yoga session. It was a lot of training, but the funny thing was, it wasn’t until I started making the right food choices that I got to see the weight move – which was incredibly frustrating at first, as you can imagine.
How do you best enjoy grapes?
My absolute favourite way to enjoy them is fresh out of the fridge – I always take them with me everywhere in a resealable bag. But I’ve started to add them to my salads. I admit – I was skeptical at first, but it’s actually delicious.
