One of the bright spots in Chicago Bears's coming rebuilding process will be the growth and development of second-year quarterback Justin Fields. His rookie campaign began on the sideline—learning as the backup as the team decided to develop the 2021 No. 11 pick slowly. But things changed quickly when he was thrust into action in week two. As is the case with most first-year signal callers, there was lots of learning through mistakes, game film to dissect, and team issues that were out of his control. But Fields improved as the season went on, showcasing enough dual-threat talent and leadership to be named the starter going forward. 

Off the turf Fields eats a plant-based diet, which he has maintained since doing a detox with his family while in quarantine during his final year at Ohio State. Seeing how quickly and positively his body responded, he made the decision to make it a permanent change. He was able to stick to the same nutrition plan with the Bears and has become an advocate for the benefits of living plant-based lifestyle.

Fields caught up with GQ on areas of focus during the offseason, how the transition to a plant-based diet was the best decision he made for his body, and his advice to anyone curious about making the change for themselves.

For Real-Life Diet, GQ talks to athletes, celebrities, and other high performers about their diet, exercise routines, and pursuit of wellness. Keep in mind that what works for them might not necessarily be healthy for you.

GQ: How long did it take for your body to feel a difference when you made the decision to go plant-based?

Justin Fields: Going plant-based was one of the best things I could do for my body. It just makes my body feel good overall. I noticed the difference right away—a few weeks I would say, and that made it way easier to continue down the plant-based path.

From before you made the transition, can you describe the difference in recovery you noticed in before making to switch until after having made it?

After going plant based I realized that it helped me fight inflammation and shorten my recovery time. I was surprised by how quickly I was starting to recover, and my trainers were shocked too. It’s sort of like a superpower. 

With that not being an easy transition, are there any foods that you still miss?

I’m the kind of person that just goes for it when I set my sights on something. After a few weeks, and especially seeing the differences in my body and recovery, it just became very natural. Honestly, the new plant-based options they have out there do the trick when you’re craving a good burger every now and then.

Were you able to adhere to eating the same way as you did in college, or did you find yourself needing more protein here and there?

I was able to pretty much do the same thing I did in college. With playing quarterback, you really don’t need to be that strong because you’re not hitting anyone. Doing the same thing I did in college really worked out for me. 

Earlier this year you signed a deal with C4 Energy. How have you used the product and just how big of an impact has it had in your training?

I started using C4 powders in high school and loved what it did for my training—I really notice an energy and performance boost. It’s my secret sauce. Because the NFL season is longer than a college season—you’re playing 17 regular season games and you have to stay on top of your body, make sure you get a lot of treatment and put all the right stuff in your body because you can get tired during the season. C4 has helped give me that kick of energy when I have been tired. The fact that there is no added sugar helps keep me up and keeps me going.

What does a typical day of eating look like for you?

This morning, I had some avocado toast and I got done working out. After that, I’ll probably have an açaí bowl. Dinner can vary a lot, but I usually try and eat something small in the morning—not anything too crazy. Lunch and dinner is pretty easy and I try not to eat too late. I try to cut out my eating at about 8 p.m.

What's a go-to treat or cheat meal? Do you have those?

I like the Trü Frü chocolate strawberries. Those are very good. And then KIND has these plant-based ice cream bars that I get from time to time. 

What are some of the best vegan spots you’ve had in Chicago?

There is a spot called Can’t Believe It’s Not Meat. I’ve been there a couple of times and they have really good food. 

What’s your game day routine look like?

The time I get up varies on the time we play, but I’ll get to the stadium about four hours before the game. I’ll get ready, look over some notes, and get locked in. I don’t really need to mentally prepare too much the day of the game because we’re doing that throughout the week. I’m already in game mode and I’ll get the body warmed up, make sure I’m on top of everything, and then it’s time to play ball. 

What would be your advice to those looking to eliminate meat from their diets?

I would say just go for it. It was hard for me the first couple of weeks but after I get used to it, it was easy. Some people might have to slowly move to it, where they eat plant-based throughout the week and have their cheat meals during the weekend. Whatever way works for each person, that’s the best thing for them. For me, I could just jump into a diet and stay strict with it, but I know my parents will have a cheat meal every now and then. Find what works for you and stick to it. 

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