What Ellen DeGeneres eats differently today will shock you

Ellen DeGeneres in 2009. PHOTO: Flickr/PawełMM

Ellen DeGeneres, the much-loved talk show host known for her wit and warmth, has also made a name for herself with her lifestyle choices, particularly when it comes to what she eats.

Known for her humor and empathy, Ellen’s diet is just as interesting as her character sketches.

Ellen’s Shift to Veganism

Ellen made a big leap some years ago, switching to a vegan diet as her way of showing love for animals and the planet.

Ellen DeGeneres at the1995 Emmy Awards. PHOTO: Alan Light

This change to eating all things plant-based was a huge shift from her previous diet, which included more traditional fare.

The Real Deal on Going Vegan

Since going vegan, Ellen says has noticed some enjoyable changes. She’s got more zip, her skin’s glowing, and even her nights are more restful.

But it’s not always easy. There’s a lot to think about, like making sure she gets all her nutrients from plants alone.

Yet, Ellen seems to manage this with grace, focusing on the positives like improved health and a clear conscience​ when it comes to animal rights​.

Looking Back on Her Diet

Remember the days Ellen enjoyed steak and burgers? Well, those are long gone. Now, her meals are more about beans, greens, and other vibrant veggies.

It was a significant change, motivated by her desire for better health and more energy.

Ellen DeGeneres in Los Angeles, 2011 – PHOTO: Glenn Francis

Despite the challenges, Ellen’s happy with her choice. She feels great and believes in the impact her diet has on her well-being and the environment​.

Recent Changes

Ellen DeGeneres’ approach to diet has always been as dynamic as her personality! Formerly a staunch vegan, Ellen has recently adjusted her eating habits, reintroducing some animal products while maintaining a strong preference for plant-based meals.

Her enthusiasm for vegan cuisine hasn’t faded though; she continues to eat and promote plant-based options.

Whether whipping up a vegan smoothie for breakfast or enjoying a lush vegetable stew for dinner, Ellen’s culinary choices reflect her ongoing commitment to health and animal welfare.

Apple cinnamon oatmeal breakfast. PHOTO: Stock image

Breakfast

Ellen starts her day with options that often include plant-based ingredients. While specific daily choices might vary, her diet typically incorporates fruits, oatmeal, or smoothies. These meals are rich in nutrients and designed to provide a healthy start to the day​.

A Vegan Tempeh veggie wrap is Ellen’s lunch choice at times. PHOTO: Stock image

Lunch

For lunch, Ellen prefers light and nutritious meals. A typical midday meal could include a quinoa salad or a vegan wrap. These dishes are packed with vegetables and provide a good mix of macronutrients to support her active lifestyle​.

Zucchini Noodle pasta is dinner. PHOTO: Stock image

Dinner

Ellen’s dinners remain largely plant-based, featuring dishes like vegan pasta or a hearty vegetable stew. Despite her partial shift from a strict vegan diet, her evening meals often spotlight vegetables and plant-based proteins​.

Vegan dessert cookies. PHOTO: Stock image

Dessert

Ellen enjoys desserts that are on the healthier side, opting for items like vegan cookies or fruit-based treats. These sweets are designed to satisfy the sweet tooth without departing too much from her overall diet philosophy​.

Snack nuts fill the gap. PHOTO: Stock image

Snacks

Throughout the day, Ellen snacks on fruits, nuts, or vegan cheese alternatives. These snacks are chosen for their convenience and nutritional value, providing energy boosts without relying on processed foods​.

5 Food Quotes From Ellen DeGeneres

“Honestly, I would eat cardboard rather than go back to eating animals.”
Ellen’s commitment to a vegan diet was evident when she expressed her preference for veganism over returning to an omnivorous lifestyle during an appearance on ‘The Rachael Ray Show’. (Nicki Swift)

“Nothing says holidays like a cheese log.”
This humorous take on holiday traditions reflects Ellen’s light-hearted approach to food during festive seasons. This quote was part of a collection of her sayings aimed to inspire and entertain. (Yahoo Lifestyle)

“I’m not really vegan, I say it for the joke.”
In her 2019 standup special “Relatable,” Ellen shared her view on her dietary choices, highlighting her personal journey with veganism. (Nicki Swift)

“Save a life this Thanksgiving, and join me in starting a new tradition by adopting a turkey instead of eating one through Farm Sanctuary’s Adopt-A-Turkey Project.”
Ellen advocated for animal welfare and promoted an alternative way to celebrate Thanksgiving, emphasizing compassion over traditional feasts. (A-Z Quotes)

“Food used to be really important to me. I loved steak, I loved hamburgers, I loved all that stuff.”
Reflecting on her past eating habits in an interview with ‘Shape’ magazine, Ellen discussed the significant changes she made to her diet and lifestyle by adopting veganism. (Nicki Swift)

Michelle Obama and Ellen dance during a taping of “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” 2012. PHOTO: Chuck Kennedy

Ellen DeGeneres FAQ

Look at Ellen DeGeneres’s food preferences and diet in this FAQ. Learn what Ellen likes to eat, her dietary restrictions, and more about her approach to eating and cooking:

What is Ellen’s favorite snack?

Ellen loves vegan burgers. She finds them delicious and satisfying, providing a good alternative to meat-based burgers.

How does Ellen start her day?

Ellen often begins her day with a smoothie. This usually includes ingredients like fresh fruit, almond milk, and protein powder to keep it nutritious and vegan-friendly.

What food does Ellen dislike?

Ellen is not fond of overly processed foods and avoids anything that isn’t fresh or natural, which aligns with her vegan diet principles.

What is Ellen’s approach to cooking at home?

Ellen prefers simple, plant-based meals. She enjoys cooking dishes that are easy to prepare yet nutritious, often incorporating lots of vegetables and whole grains.

Has Ellen always been vegan?

No, Ellen was not always vegan. She adopted a vegan diet in 2008 but has recently included some animal products like fish and eggs back into her diet.

What does Ellen typically eat for dinner?

For dinner, Ellen likes to keep it light and healthy with dishes like lentil soup or a vegetable stir-fry, emphasizing fresh and wholesome ingredients.

Does Ellen drink alcohol?

Ellen enjoys wine occasionally. She opts for vegan-friendly wines that align with her dietary preferences and ethical considerations.

How does Ellen handle dining out?

When dining out, Ellen prefers restaurants that offer vegan options or can accommodate her dietary needs, ensuring she can stick to her plant-based diet.

What is Ellen’s favorite dessert?

Ellen’s favorite dessert is vegan ice cream. She enjoys the rich taste and the variety of flavors available in vegan options.

Ellen DeGeneres at Tulane University in 2006. PHOTO: Albert Herring

What The Experts Say About Ellen DeGeneres’s Diet Choices

Increased Plant-Based Focus
Nutritionists commend Ellen DeGeneres for emphasizing plant-based foods, which can reduce the risk of heart disease and boost overall health. (Healthline)

Variety and Moderation
Experts approve of Ellen’s approach to including a variety of foods in her diet, which ensures a wide range of essential nutrients. (WebMD)

Impact on Energy Levels
Ellen DeGeneres’s inclusion of whole grains and vegetables might contribute to higher energy levels and better digestion. (Nutrition Facts)

Reduction in Processed Foods
Reducing processed foods, as Ellen DeGeneres does, is linked to lower risks of obesity and chronic diseases, experts suggest. (Mayo Clinic)

Occasional Fish and Eggs
Integrating fish and eggs into her mostly plant-based diet provides Ellen with important omega-3 fatty acids and protein, nutritionists note. (American Heart Association)

Ellen DeGeneres at the 1997 Emmy Awards. PHOTO: Alan Light

3 Things You Didn’t Know About Ellen DeGeneres

She Was the Only Female Comic on Johnny Carson’s Tonight Show

In 1986, Ellen DeGeneres became the first female comedian to be invited to sit on the famous couch and chat with Johnny Carson on his show, marking a significant milestone in her career.

Ellen Had a Breakdown After Splitting with Anne Heche

Ellen experienced a significant personal breakdown after her public split from actress Anne Heche, which was a challenging period in her life.

Michelle Obama Beat Her in a Push-Up Contest

On her show in 2012, Ellen challenged then-First Lady Michelle Obama to a push-up contest. Michelle won, doing more push-ups than Ellen, showcasing her fitness and strength.