Lily Collins inspired millions with her journey from battling eating disorders to thriving with a balanced diet and exercise routine.

The Emily in Paris star Lily Collins has often been looked up to for her flawlessly slim physique that graces every iconic outfit she dons. But there’s no denying that the actress earned her phenomenal figure after having a long, complicated relationship with her body.

Lily Collins in Emily in Paris | image: Netflix

According to reports, Lily Collins has struggled with an eating disorder for years. But eventually, the actress broke out of the toxic cycle and pledged to be an advocate for self-love. Now, the actress is finally in a good place when it comes to her eating habits and mental health. Therefore, serving as a major beauty inspo for women, Collins now preaches proper eating and exercise regimes.

Lily Collins Got Vocal About Her Battle with Eating Disorders 

Famously known for her role in Emily in Paris, Lily Collins garnered immense popularity and widespread admiration for her elegant style and flawless physique. However, behind her polished exterior lies a deeply personal journey marked by struggle and triumph. Reflecting on her journey, Collins thus published a memoir in 2017, Unfiltered: No Shame, No Regrets, Just Me.

Snippets from her memoir shared by PEOPLE magazine highlighted how her path to wellness was paved with years of battling an eating disorder. According to Lily Collins, her bittersweet relationship with food and her body initially began when she was 16 and her parents went through separation. Failing to cope with the stress, the actress admitted to facing a turbulent relationship with food and body image.

I couldn’t handle the pain and confusion surrounding my dad’s divorce, and I was having a hard time balancing being a teenager with pursuing two different grown-up careers – both of which I’d chosen myself, but which also focused heavily on how I looked… Eating was no longer a fun social event, but instead a chore and a punishment. I was exhausted and antsy and bitchy all the time. I sure as hell wasn’t much fun. 

But my plan was working! I was in control! I was skinny! Between the starvation, the diet pills, the laxatives, and throwing up, I not only lost all of my energy, but my body started to shut down. My hair and nails lost their shine and became brittle. My throat burned and my esophagus ached. My period stopped for a couple of years and I was terrified I had ruined my chances of having kids. 

After her struggles with eating disorders began in her teenage years and continued into adulthood, Lily Collins addressed the grave effects that it had on her health. Openly discussing her experiences, Collins revealed the emotional and physical toll of her battle. Stating how her eating disorder not only affected her physical health but also deeply affected her mental well-being, the actress realized the need for change.

Lily Collins’ Diet and Exercise Routine for a Healthy Lifestyle 

After an unhealthy relationship with her food and body image, as Lily Collins got a health scare, the actress admitted to learning her lesson. Thereafter, she embarked on a transformative journey toward self-love and acceptance. The Love, Rosie actress thus shared in Josh Smith’s podcast Reign, how years of therapy helped her address the root causes of her eating disorder and build a more positive self-image.

I’ve done therapy for years and I feel like I am getting to the route of why I allowed those darker thoughts to dictate how I lived my life, what I did or didn’t eat, and the restrictions I put on myself. 

Lily Collins in a still from Stuck in Love (2012) | image: Informant Media, MICA Entertainment

Now, Lily Collins has begun working with healthcare professionals, including therapists and nutritionists, to develop a healthier relationship with food and her body. She has also become vocal about her experiences, using her platform to inspire others facing similar struggles. Therefore, speaking with Shape, Collins opened up about her balanced diet and exercise routine for anyone to follow.

I’m a clean eater. I love chicken, fish, and vegetables, and grains like quinoa, but I don’t eat red meat. I steer clear of processed foods. I’m very farm-to-table; growing up in the English countryside, it was a way of life, not a trend. I also treat myself to the occasional dessert when I’m out with friends. But on the daily, I want to give my body what it needs to be the best version of myself. 

I’m not gluten-free or vegan, but I love baking things because of the sense of accomplishment I get from creating something that’s yummy and healthy. I make everything from doughnuts to birthday cakes and banana-walnut bread.

Lily Collins in a still from Tolkien (2019) | image: Searchlight Pictures

Further, according to Lily Collins’ interview with Harper’s Bazaar, the actress gave the specifics of her daily routine and diet. Starting her morning with a glass of water and lemon, Collins claimed to whip up some oatmeal and fruit for breakfast. As for lunch, the actress mentioned thriving on salmon or chicken, salad, and quinoa. Collins also claimed to have traded coffee for tea.

Moving onwards, when asked about dinner Lily Collins admitted to eating out since she doesn’t like cooking. Further, reflecting on her exercise routine, the actress noted focusing more on “strengthening and toning” by doing “isometrics and ballet moves”. Claiming to be a big believer in moving her body daily, Collins admitted that she doesn’t have a specific gym regime, instead, she focuses on keeping herself active daily.