Mike Tyson has some advice on improving diets in impoverished areas where healthy food is a luxury.

During his appearance on The Secretary Kennedy Podcast, Tyson discussed how he grew up in a neighborhood where eating nutritious food was unaffordable, and the reliance on junk and processed food had led to extreme obesity and poor health. So, he understands the importance of uplifting those areas.

"We need more mentors. You know, they need mentors and show them how to eat, have proper diets, how to take care of themselves."

Tyson also gave his take on vanity and self-image and how pride in one’s appearance can actually contribute to people living healthier lives.

"You know, people always say that's one of the evil sins, vanity, but wow, sometimes we need a little vanity to, you know, take care of ourselves and more self-love. That's what it all comes down to, about how you care about your appearance."

He shared that the entire neighborhood depended heavily on ultra-processed food, so much so that he said that it was their 'culture to be fat.' His family also relied heavily on ultra-processed food, which caused him and his sister to become obese.

Tyson continued talking about how he himself struggled with body image issues due to being obese in his younger days.

And even today, he sometimes does not feel good about how he looks. But he has now nailed down his diet and sticks to it.

How Mike Tyson’s Take Keeps Himself Fit at 59

Tyson used to consume between 3,000 and 4,000 calories a day during his prime. The energy received from those many calories was quickly turned into muscle through his dedicated workout routine, which involved everything from strength training, cardio to calisthenics, stretches, and boxing exercises.

The legendary boxer didn't just struggle with weight issues in his adolescence. After retiring from professional boxing in 2005, he gained more than 70 kgs due to a lack of exercise and poor dietary habits. He lost some of the weight in 2010, crediting it to following a vegan diet.

In 2020, when Tyson was offered an exhibition fight against Roy Jones Jr. The former world champion wasted no time in getting fit and lost around 31 kgs by following a strict training and diet routine. Since then, Tyson has been following a balanced routine to keep him healthy.

His routine starts at 4:00 AM with a three to five-mile run. It helps him build mental toughness and improve his cardiovascular function. As for his diet, it mostly consists of protein-rich foods like steak, chicken, rice, and vegetables, and avoiding junk and processed food.

His recovery routine is naps, massages, and focused rest, which helps his body recover completely. He also practices daily affirmations to keep his mind as sharp as his body.

To know more about Mike Tyson's routine, follow Bodybuilding Bros!

Written by

Ruwa Javed

Edited by

Zaid Quraishi