Ultra-Runner Flo Neuschwander Uses Vegan Diet to Improve Performance

Flo Neuschwander, known for his remarkable feats in long-distance running, reaches new lengths through a vegan diet. Embracing veganism since 2020, Neuschwander’s diet serves as the bedrock for his exceptional performances, challenging perceptions about the adequacy of plant-based diets for elite athletes.

Neuschwander’s mantra is simplicity: “Eat a balanced diet and avoid rubbish.” This is the root of his dietary choices — an approach where he emphasizes whole, nutrient-dense foods over processed alternatives. For Neuschwander, being a vegan athlete demands meticulous attention to nutritional adequacy, ensuring optimal fuel for both daily life and grueling athletic endeavors.

Transitioning to a vegan lifestyle wasn’t just a dietary change for Neuschwander; it was a conscientious decision inspired by his wife’s longstanding veganism. He said, “My wife has been vegan for ages. I looked at it for a while, and then rather than treating myself to a burger when I was out and about, I said, I can do without a few burgers.”

Neuschwander’s daily meals offer a glimpse into his plant-powered regimen. Breakfast comprises wholemeal bread with vegan spreads or oatmeal infused with nuts and fruits, accompanied by dairy-free yogurt. Lunch is a light affair, featuring gnocchi or simple fare like avocado toast. The pièce de résistance emerges at dinner, where his wife crafts indulgent vegan dishes like vegetable lasagna with cashew cream béchamel and plant-based cheese.

Fueling his athletic pursuits necessitates strategic nutrition, as affirmed by Dr. Stephen Smith, a Performance Nutritionist. Tailoring his diet to the demands of endurance running, Neuschwander prioritizes carbohydrates before and after training for sustained energy. During arduous runs, he supplements with energy drinks like Red Bull to stave off fatigue, demonstrating a nuanced approach to performance nutrition.

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