In a refreshingly candid interview, Olympic gold medalist Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone shared her unfiltered thoughts on food, cheat days, and maintaining a balanced diet as a world-class athlete. As she gears up for the 2025 track season, including the highly anticipated World Championships, McLaughlin-Levrone offered a glimpse into her eating habits, revealing a surprisingly relaxed approach to indulging in her cravings.
The 400m hurdles world record holder, who clinched two gold medals at the 2024 Paris Olympics, emphasized the importance of fueling her body with high-protein, healthy carbs, and plenty of water. However, she also confessed that she and her husband, Andre Levrone, enjoy the occasional sweet treats and don’t shy away from declaring any day a “cheat day.”
McLaughlin-Levrone’s philosophy on cheat days is rooted in moderation and balance. She acknowledged that completely depriving herself of her favorite foods can lead to binging, and instead, she prefers to indulge in small doses. This approach allows her to satisfy her cravings while maintaining a healthy relationship with food.
As she navigates the challenges of her off-season training, McLaughlin-Levrone’s candid discussion about her eating habits serves as a reminder that even elite athletes can enjoy flexibility and freedom in their diets. By embracing a balanced approach to nutrition and allowing herself the occasional indulgence, McLaughlin-Levrone is poised to tackle the demands of the upcoming track season with confidence and enthusiasm.