Actor and comedian Adam Devine had quite the health journey in 2024, and it was a year of significant growth and learning for him. From putting on 25 pounds of “sympathy weight” during his wife’s pregnancy to becoming a first-time dad, Devine found himself at a crossroads when it came to his health and well-being. The experiences of fatherhood and the responsibilities that came with it served as a wake-up call for Devine to refocus on his health, not just for himself but for his family as well.
In a recent conversation with MyFitnessPal, Devine shared some of the biggest health lessons he learned in 2024 and how he plans to carry those lessons into 2025 for a happier and healthier year ahead.
Lesson 1: Rotisserie Chicken is the MVP
Devine revealed that one of his go-to staples for maintaining his health and hitting his nutrition goals is rotisserie chicken. He emphasized the convenience and versatility of this high-protein food, sharing how he incorporates it into his meals throughout the week to keep things interesting and nutritious. By planning ahead and having a protein-packed base like rotisserie chicken on hand, Devine ensures that he always has a healthy meal ready to go without spending hours in the kitchen.
Lesson 2: Just Because it’s High Protein Doesn’t Mean You Should Eat It
While protein is essential for supporting a weight loss journey, Devine learned the importance of being mindful about the high-protein snacks he consumes. He shared an anecdote about homemade protein balls that seemed healthy but turned out to be calorie-dense, leading him to realize the importance of tracking his food to avoid inadvertently consuming excess calories. This lesson highlighted the need to pay close attention to the nutritional content of foods, even those that are marketed as healthy or high in protein.
Lesson 3: Drinking an Old Fashioned is Like Eating a Candy Bar
Devine also reflected on the impact of his drink choices on his overall health and well-being. He acknowledged that indulging in a classic cocktail like an old fashioned can be enjoyable but also calorie-dense, likening it to consuming a candy bar. By being aware of the calorie content of his favorite drinks, Devine has learned to strike a balance between enjoying occasional indulgences and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Lesson 4: Nutrition is Key to Showing Up as a Dad
As a new dad, Devine recognized the importance of prioritizing nutrition to maintain his energy and well-being for his family. He shared how the trade-off between spending time with his son and going to the gym has made healthier eating choices even more critical for him. By focusing on eating well and feeling good, Devine aims to be the best version of himself for his son, emphasizing the shift in his perspective on health and fitness since becoming a parent.
Lesson 5: Even a Loose Wedding Ring Can Boost Motivation
Devine emphasized the significance of non-scale victories and everyday wins in his health journey. By noticing subtle changes like his wedding ring becoming loose or his face looking leaner on screen, he found motivation to continue making progress toward his health goals. These small victories serve as reminders of his progress and keep him motivated to stay on track with his health and fitness routine.
Lesson 6: How You Eat Impacts How You Feel
Reflecting on his experience of putting on extra weight and then losing it, Devine highlighted the connection between diet and overall well-being. He shared how eating healthier has helped him feel more energized and confident, emphasizing the impact of nutrition on both physical and mental health. By prioritizing nutritious foods, Devine has found that he has more energy and feels better overall, particularly as a parent who needs to be present and active for his family.
Lesson 7: Don’t Miss Out on Cookies—Or Steak
Devine’s approach to healthy living involves finding a balance between enjoying the foods he loves and staying on track with his health goals. He emphasized the importance of not feeling guilty about indulging in treats or special occasions, recognizing that it’s essential to live life and enjoy moments like family reunions with cookies, steaks, and beer. By allowing himself to indulge occasionally and then resetting his routine, Devine maintains a healthy relationship with food and avoids restrictive behaviors that can lead to burnout or dissatisfaction.
Lesson 8: Knowing Your Protein Goal Matters
Devine shared how he structures his meals around hitting his protein goals while staying within his calorie limits. By incorporating protein-rich foods like grilled chicken, salmon, and turkey chili into his daily meals, he ensures that he’s getting the nutrients he needs to support his health and fitness goals. Devine’s focus on protein also extends to snacks, with choices like cherry tomatoes, apples, and protein bars that help him stay satisfied and avoid less nutritious options when hunger strikes.
Lesson 9: Go-to Snacks Are a Must
Having convenient and healthy snack options readily available is essential for Devine to avoid succumbing to less nutritious choices when hunger strikes. By keeping snacks like cherry tomatoes, apples, and protein bars on hand, he ensures that he can satisfy his cravings without derailing his health goals. Devine emphasized the importance of finding snacks that he genuinely enjoys and making them easily accessible for moments when he needs a quick and nutritious option.
Lesson 10: Tracking Makes Health Goals Achievable
One of the most significant lessons Devine learned in 2024 was the power of food tracking in staying accountable and making informed decisions about his nutrition. By tracking his food intake, he gained a better understanding of what he was eating and how it was impacting his health and fitness goals. Devine emphasized the importance of balance and consistency in tracking food, recognizing that it’s not about perfection but about making progress over time. By setting simple and sustainable health goals for 2025, Devine aims to focus on eating healthy and drinking less alcohol without feeling guilty about occasional indulgences.
In conclusion, Adam Devine’s health journey in 2024 was a transformative experience that taught him valuable lessons about nutrition, balance, and self-care. By prioritizing his health and well-being, Devine has found a renewed sense of energy and confidence that has positively impacted every aspect of his life, from his career to his role as a father. As he looks ahead to 2025, Devine plans to continue making informed decisions about his health while allowing himself to enjoy life’s pleasures in moderation. By following Devine’s example and embracing a balanced approach to health and wellness, we can all make 2025 our healthiest year yet.