Strictly Come Dancing’s head judge Shirley Ballas has revealed details of her strict diet that helps her maintain her slim figure. The 64-year-old, known as the ‘Queen of Latin,’ says that after turning 60, eating three meals a day became impossible for her. Instead, she follows a simple routine of eating just one meal daily.
Speaking on Grace Dent’s Comfort Eating podcast, Shirley explained that her single meal is often plain lemon chicken, baked without any seasoning. Occasionally, she adds some rice but keeps her food choices minimal. She follows intermittent fasting, skipping breakfast and sometimes having juice around lunchtime, with dinner served by her mother in the late afternoon.
Intermittent fasting, which alternates periods of eating and fasting, is popular among celebrities and has been shown by research to support weight loss and maintain a healthy weight. A recent study from the University of Granada found that limiting eating to an eight-hour window daily for three months led to significant weight loss that lasted at least a year.
Shirley’s daily treat includes a cup of coffee with brandy, Coffee Mate, and sugar. She sometimes enjoys a small slice of cake. She has also tried the ‘plant paradox’ diet, which restricts foods high in lectins, like beans and lentils, though some experts warn this may limit important nutrients.
Alongside her diet, Shirley participates in juice retreats and juicing routines to boost her fruit and vegetable intake. Since turning 40, she has become more careful about what she eats, and her dedication to diet and exercise gained attention when she lost nearly 5kg in one week in 2023.
She also shared how harsh comments about her appearance have affected her confidence, saying she once believed she needed validation from others to feel good about herself. Despite this, Shirley remains committed to her health routine, especially before the start of each Strictly Come Dancing season.
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