What does Olympic gymnast Nastia Liukin eat?

Olympic gymnast Nastia Liukin might make headlines as fans call her anorexic – the 2020 storm hasn’t been forgotten – but the 32-year-old has made it clear she nourishes herself well. The 2008 all-around champion tends not to post her eats to social media, but plenty of interviews have seen the Moscow native reveal her appetite, and she’s even opened up on her cookies philosophy.

Nastia was just 22 when she retired from professional gymnastics, and she’s since proven an open book when it comes to detailing what lands on her plate. Ahead, see a snap of Liukin, plus what she eats.

Nastia Liukin Doesn’t Live Off Rabbit Food

Nastia was, two years ago, asked how she feels about “promoting borderline anorexia looking bodies” in a high-profile spat sparked by a fan comment. The blonde has, however, outlined dinners of “fish” and a “great kale salad and a homemade dressing. We definitely eat more protein and vegetables, but obviously making sure it’s a well-balanced diet of having some carbs in there, too — brown rice, sweet potatoes, those kinds of things.” Liukin, who has posted an IG photo of herself enjoying a pizza slice, has also revealed that cheat foods are absolutely okay in her books, too.

See More From Nastia Liukin Below

Referencing her Olympic gymnast mother as she continued speaking to The Cut, the Volition partner stated that her mom had told her to always “have a cookie” if she wants one, and there’s a theory behind it all.

Basically, not having the cookie you want results in you getting “to a point where just like you want ten cookies and you’re going to eat ten. So allow yourself to have that. Yeah, maybe don’t have a cookie every single day, but if you want one, then have one.”

Nastia joins the list of famous athletes known for packing in protein and tons of veg – the list includes fellow gymnast Simone Biles, plus tennis pro Serena Williams. Nastia is also known for her love of coffee – particularly from Seattle-based giant Starbucks. She’s even given her followers free Starbucks.