Arnold Schwarzenegger has been many things, including a bodybuilding champion, Hollywood superstar, governor of California, and environmental advocate. But one question continues to intrigue fans and health enthusiasts: Is the Terminator also a vegan?
With his daughter Katherine Schwarzenegger standing out as a passionate animal welfare advocate, and Arnold himself known for championing climate action, it seems natural to wonder if his plate matches his principles. After all, Schwarzenegger has supported the plant-based movement in many ways.
© Getty ImagesHe has lent Greta Thunberg his electric car, narrated the pro-vegan documentary "The Game Changers," and regularly praised the health and environmental benefits of eating less meat. But does he live a fully vegan life? The answer, as it turns out, is a bit more nuanced.
The Evolution of Schwarzenegger's Diet
Since around 2017, Schwarzenegger has leaned heavily toward a plant-based lifestyle. In fact, in February 2022, he revealed through his newsletter that his diet is now about 80% vegan. He made it clear, however, that he hasn't given up animal products entirely.
© Rolf Konow"To be clear: I'm not fully vegan, I just about eat 80% less meat than I used to," Schwarzenegger explained in an interview highlighted by Men's Health in June 2023.
So while he's not a textbook vegan, his significant cutback from his bodybuilding prime's protein-heavy, meat-centered diets represents a major shift in how he approaches nutrition.
© Bettmann ArchiveArnold on the Benefits of a Plant-Based Lifestyle
Despite not going fully vegan, Schwarzenegger has consistently acknowledged the science-backed benefits of plant-based eating. In his Arnold's Pump Club newsletter, he pointed out:
"Vegan diets tend to be higher in fiber and lower in saturated fat, which contributes to many benefits, such as lower LDL cholesterol, lower insulin, and feeling fuller for longer, which is an important part of eating fewer calories and losing weight."
© GC ImagesHe even shared that his cholesterol dropped so dramatically that his doctor thought it belonged to a different patient. Reducing animal products has had a real impact on his health.
The Balance: Vegan Choices and Occasional Meat
For Schwarzenegger, the focus isn't on labels, but sustainability. He has emphasized that the key to health is building a lifestyle you can stick with long-term. That means moderation, flexibility, and balance rather than strict adherence to a single diet philosophy.
On his Pump Club podcast in April 2023, he revealed his plant-based swaps, which include veggie burgers, lentils, and beans. He also finds his supplements with pea protein-based protein powders.
© Getty ImagesOf course, being Austrian, he admits he still treats himself to the occasional schnitzel, steak, or burger. And for friends, he prides himself on grilling a "fantastic New York Strip."
For aspiring vegans or those looking for role models in the plant-based space, it might be a little disappointing to learn that Arnold isn't 100% vegan. However, his 80% shift from meat is still a powerful example of how small changes can add to significant health and environmental benefits.
© Getty ImagesSchwarzenegger embodies a more approachable version of conscious eating by showing that you don't have to be perfect to make a difference. Instead of demanding strict labels, he encourages a flexible, realistic mindset that allows for both progress and enjoyment.
