TB12 Diet: What It Is, How It Works, and What the Science Says
When you hear TB12 diet, a nutrition plan created by NFL quarterback Tom Brady and his performance coach Alex Guerrero, centered on anti-inflammatory eating and longevity. Also known as the Tom Brady diet, it’s not just about eating healthy—it’s about tuning your body like a high-performance machine. Unlike typical diets that focus on calorie counting or cutting carbs, the TB12 diet is built around one core idea: reduce inflammation to prevent injury, speed recovery, and keep your body working longer.
The diet avoids gluten, dairy, sugar, caffeine, nightshades (like tomatoes and peppers), and processed foods. Instead, it pushes plant-based meals, lean proteins, and hydrating foods. You’ll eat mostly vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, and wild-caught fish. It’s not vegan, but it’s close—meat is limited, and when included, it’s organic and grass-fed. The plan also includes strict hydration rules: drink half your body weight in ounces of water daily, and avoid alcohol entirely. This isn’t a quick fix. It’s a lifestyle designed for athletes who want to extend their careers, but the principles apply to anyone tired of feeling sluggish or sore all the time.
What makes the TB12 diet stand out isn’t the food list—it’s the philosophy behind it. It’s not about losing weight fast; it’s about feeling better every day. The focus on inflammation matters because chronic inflammation is linked to joint pain, brain fog, fatigue, and even heart disease. Studies show that diets rich in plants and low in processed foods reduce inflammatory markers like CRP. The TB12 diet aligns with this science, even if it adds its own rules. For example, avoiding nightshades isn’t backed by broad research, but some people with arthritis do report relief. That’s why the diet encourages personal experimentation—track how your body responds, not just what the book says.
It’s not for everyone. The restrictions are tight, and the prep work is high. But if you’ve tried other diets and still feel tired, bloated, or achy, the TB12 diet might be worth exploring—not because Tom Brady does it, but because its core principles match what doctors recommend for long-term health. Below, you’ll find real stories, science-backed breakdowns, and practical tips from people who’ve tried it, failed it, or stuck with it. No hype. Just what works, what doesn’t, and why.