Lena Cruz

“A high intake of vegetables helps to prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease and obesity.”

Lena is an Australian Actress who is an ex Shortland Street cast member. She left the soap to return to Australia in 2001 and last year stared in the musical Priscilla, Queen of the Desert.

10am: I could stay in bed longer but I really try hard not to wake up later than this. I have a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with a teaspoon of 16+ manuka honey in a warm glass of water as soon as I get up. Then I do yoga and meditation.

11am: I have a couple of pieces of fruit or fruit salad. I love feijoas and persimmons I wait for half an hour then I have muesli that I soaked with rice milk or soy milk the night before. I add dried figs and apricots, yoghurt and LSA (ground linseed, sunflower seeds and almonds).

12.30pm: I have bought my first guitar here in Auckland! I’m trying to be disciplined and practice every day for at least 45 minutes. then I usually cook lunch. Today was basmati rice sauteed in coconut oil with garlic, onions, tomatoes, chillies, field mushrooms, pine nuts and parsley. I ate that with a fresh green, leafy salad and avocado.

5pm: I had sushi, seaweed salad and miso soup for dinner before the show. I also had herbal tea which I drink all day.

9pm: I always snack during the show interval. My favourites are carob coated peanuts and dried bananas.

10.30pm: I am ravenous after the show. Usually I’ll have eggs on toast, or when we are in the mood for it, a full Chinese meal with friends from the show.

I love roast pork complete with crackling and fried rice. Then I try really hard not to go to sleep straight away - always a battle.

Jacquie says:

Lena is a legend. Her diet gives her plenty of energy to cope with the rigours of a high intensity stage performance every night. I counted at least six fruit and vegetable serves in her first three meals. Good nutrition starts with a diet that is high in plants and leaves. A high intake of vegetables helps to prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease and obesity. She could try to include more protein at lunch, like fish or meat. Protein would help sustain her energy levels later in the day and minimise the cravings after the show.