Dietitian Warns Against LeBron James’ Fasting Workout Routine

LeBron James recently revealed on his 'Mind the Game' podcast that he works out on an empty stomach and delays his first full meal until early afternoon, usually around 1:30 or 2 p.m., supplementing only with fruit or green juice beforehand. While this routine has clearly supported James's elite performance and longevity in the NBA, registered dietitian Melissa Mitri warns that it is not advisable for most people. She explains that training in a fasted state forces the body to draw energy from muscle and brain carbohydrate stores, potentially causing fatigue, brain fog, weakness, irritability, and increased anxiety due to cortisol response. Mitri emphasizes that most active individuals benefit from fueling both before and after exercise to optimize performance, recovery, and muscle building, and that James's approach likely required a long adjustment period given his unique physiology and glycogen stores. Though hydration is important, she cautions it cannot replace proper nutrition to support strenuous physical activity. Ultimately, experts advise against replicating James's fasting workout routine for the average person due to the risks of impaired performance and negative side effects.