I try to eat healthy for the most part. When I cut weight, I cut pretty much everything out. I don't have protein when I cut weight other than what I might get from something like chicken breast. So I don't eat any extra protein, just because I'm trying to get the weight off. That's the only real diet I have.

In this quote, Paige VanZant discusses her approach to eating healthy and managing her diet for weight control, especially during the intense periods when she needs to cut weight. She explains that her strategy involves limiting her intake of most foods, with a particular focus on protein. The reference to not consuming “any extra protein” except what might come from something like chicken breast highlights her approach to reducing her overall calorie intake during this time.

VanZant’s diet reflects the rigorous discipline required for athletes, particularly those who compete in sports like mixed martial arts (MMA), where weight classes are critical. She emphasizes that the primary goal when cutting weight is to shed excess body weight without overloading on nutrients that might slow down the process. By cutting out additional protein, she is essentially trying to minimize her caloric intake, ensuring she meets the weight limit required for her competition.

The origin of this quote comes from VanZant’s public discussions about her training and dietary habits as part of her professional life. As a fighter, managing her weight is a key component of her preparation for events, and she provides insight into the sacrifices she makes to stay in top physical condition. This candidness about her dietary choices helps the public understand the often stringent nature of an athlete’s daily routine.

Ultimately, the quote highlights the importance of balance and discipline in the context of an athlete’s life, where decisions about food and nutrition are closely tied to performance goals. VanZant’s approach underscores how a simple yet focused diet can be essential for meeting specific physical demands, especially in high-stakes competitions.