Matt Damon has made significant changes to his diet and lifestyle in preparation for his role in the upcoming film, “The Odyssey,” directed by Christopher Nolan. The transformation required him to cut gluten from his diet, leading to a permanent lifestyle change.
Gluten-Free Diet and Lifestyle Impact
During a discussion on Amy Poehler’s “Good Hang” podcast, Damon shared that removing gluten from his diet was life-altering. The adjustment was necessary for an intense physical transformation demanded by Nolan for his role as Odysseus. He highlighted the difficulty of giving up staples like bread and pasta, but he emphasized feeling significantly better.
“We didn’t talk about it, and I didn’t realize the level to which it was affecting me,” Damon explained, noting the change had a profound impact on his health.
Weight Loss and Training
For this role, Damon lost substantial weight, dropping to 167 pounds. This weight loss marked his lightest since high school. In a discussion on the “New Heights” podcast with Travis and Jason Kelce, Damon described the strenuous regimen, noting Nolan wanted him “lean but strong.” His diet and gluten-free lifestyle, combined with a disciplined workout, helped Damon meet these requirements.
Damon’s commitment to fitness included working closely with a personal trainer. He noted the importance of clear goals during training, which helped him stay focused and achieve the desired physical condition.
Past Transformations
This isn’t the first time Damon has undergone a drastic transformation for a film. In 1996, he lost between 40 to 50 pounds in 100 days for the movie “Courage Under Fire.” This significant weight loss posed health risks, with a doctor warning him of potential heart damage.
Damon’s ongoing commitment to his roles reflects his dedication to his craft, despite the challenges he has faced with intense physical demands.