Idris Elba's Diet Explained: The Actor Has a Sweet Twist on Fasting – Will It Work for You?

As a Hollywood star constantly taking on physically demanding roles, Idris Elba has to be at the top of his game at all times. For the 51-year-old, fitness is not just a long-term goal. It's a way of life.

However, staying in top physical shape comes with some challenges, as Elba is all too familiar with. That said, the A-lister has since figured out an effective diet regimen, one that combines healthy eating with a strict cut-off time for his meal schedule. It's essentially Elba's own take on fasting that also comes with a little sweet treat.

The Idris Elba Diet: High Protein and No Meals After 9 PM

Although he has worked with a nutritionist in the past, Elba has since figured out what works for him on his own. Over the years, the star has become more attuned to his body and what it needs nutritionally. 'I just really have an understanding of what certain food groups do to your digestive system and mental power,' Elba explained during an interview with GQ.

For the London-born actor, protein is king. For instance, a typical breakfast might involve some decaf coffee and 'a couple of hard-boiled eggs.' Later in the day, Elba might opt for some chicken sausage or more eggs (he also loves carb-rich African food but tries to stay away from it while on a high-protein diet).

Because he's sticking to a high-protein diet these days, Elba likes to keep snacks to a minimum. The actor has a go-to fruit. 'I do love a banana, which is great for energy,' he said. Sometimes, Elba's snack might involve a chocolate bar, which he indulges in from time to time.

The actor is a bit stricter when it comes to his meals in the evening. Specifically, Elba likes to impose a cut-off period no matter what. 'If I get home any later than 9pm, I don't eat, and I'll go to bed hungry,' he revealed.

So, what helps him get through this period of not eating? As it turns out, Elba only needs 'a teaspoon of high-quality honey.' 'That usually curbs any hunger pangs, and I'll sleep all through the night when I do that,' he added. The next day, Elba also finds that his 'metabolism really kicks in' hours after his honey intake.

Is Honey Good For You?

The benefits of consuming honey have been widely publicised over the years. Aside from being incredibly nutritious, this natural sweet treat has also been known to help lower blood sugar levels and even improve heart health. As for Elba, he initially consumed honey to help manage his cortisol levels, something that science also supports.

For those on a strict intermittent fasting regimen, taking honey while fasting might be tricky, as it technically breaks the fast. However, it can be part of a dirty fasting regimen, where you allow yourself 50 to 100 calories outside your eating window. Since a teaspoon of honey only contains about 21 calories, it fits well into a dirty fast plan.

Meanwhile, if you're thinking of following Elba's diet, it's always a good idea to consult a professional. A nutritionist can help you determine which diet will work best for you.