HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has recently debuted his new cooking program, The Real Food Show, featuring celebrity chef Andrew Gruel. This initiative is part of Kennedy’s mission to promote healthier eating habits and tackle chronic health issues in the United States.
In other health-related news, Alex Rodriguez, former MLB All-Star, discussed his dietary changes since retiring from professional baseball a decade ago. Known for his calculated prowess on the field, Rodriguez now eats significantly less, reflecting the shift from a full-time athlete to a businessman and a sports-team owner.
During his baseball career, Rodriguez consumed large quantities of food, often eating six meals a day, as he required substantial energy for playing 162 games. His meals primarily consisted of steak, potatoes, rice, and beans.
These days, Rodriguez’s diet includes a mix of healthy options and indulgent snacks. In his fridge, he always keeps water, eggs, spring lettuce mix, and fruits such as bananas, apples, and oranges. He no longer drinks soda but keeps some on hand for guests. Fresh organic blueberries, strawberries, various greens, and hummus for late-night snacking are staples as well.
In the pantry, Rodriguez, a self-proclaimed “chips expert,” stocks barbecue chips, Doritos, Cheetos, Tostitos, Corn Nuts, and cashews. Despite occasional indulgences at 2 a.m., he remains disciplined about food choices.
“I love to eat,” said Rodriguez. “I have a great relationship with food.”
Rodriguez’s breakfast choices include eggs, oatmeal, bacon, orange juice, and plenty of water. Lunch generally features salad with balsamic vinaigrette and chicken or fish, while dinner consists of steak or salmon paired with sweet potato fries. Though he jokingly suggests he would “start a fire,” Rodriguez refrains from cooking.
Though he has never dieted, Rodriguez expressed concerns about potentially under-eating nowadays compared to during his MLB career. He acknowledges the need for more healthy proteins, fruits, and water.
Rodriguez’s comfort foods reflect his Dominican heritage, including rice and beans, plátanos maduros, and tostones. His preferred burger is a double Whopper with cheese, and he favors McDonald’s French fries over other options.
Coffee is also a staple, with him drinking seven to eight cups daily, along with Celsius energy drinks before workouts. Protein shakes—made with protein powder, fruit, and peanut butter—feature prominently in his routine, supplemented by vitamin C, multivitamins, and magnesium to aid sleep.
Rodriguez’s favorite ballpark food remains the Dodger Dog, complemented with a pretzel. He also revealed a quirky favorite food combination of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich with deli turkey.
Through these dietary choices, Rodriguez stays committed to maintaining balanced nutrition and hydration as part of his daily routine.