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Venus Williams Cut Back on This One Surprising Thing in Her Diet to Prep for the U.S. Open
The tennis star ditched something you probably wouldn't guess.
After 23 years on the tennis court, Venus Williams has learned a thing or three about getting her body in shape for a competition both on the inside and outside. And as she prepared for this year's U.S. Open, which is currently underway, she tried something a little bit different.
"I eat a ton more during a tournament," she said in an interview with Health (via PEOPLE). "Lately, I’ve been off the protein train—even vegan protein. That’s something new I’m trying. I’m not necessarily convinced we need as much protein as they say. And I still feel good. I think it’s all about how you feel and finding out what works for your body."
She's turned to shakes and smoothies instead. "They're easy and quick," she explained. "I love it. Different varieties, green ones, pink ones, red ones, all different colors with lots of fruits and veggies."
Earlier this year, she told Stylecaster that she liked to start her days with a smoothie made from kale, spinach, pineapple, and vegan protein powder (though we're guessing she's skipping the protein powder for now)—and that her guilty pleasure food is donuts.
Venus has a few other key strategies as well, like taking "mental breaks," getting more sleep, and arranging more massages. And she's currently winning, so her strategy sounds like a worthy prescription for anyone, on or off the court.
