Elizabeth Holmes Changes Diet in Prison Due to Health Issues

However, in an interview with People in February 2025, she revealed that she started incorporating salmon and tuna into her meals after developing anemia during her first year in prison. These fish are rich in iron, important for addressing her health concerns, although there are various vegan sources like tofu and spinach that could also serve this purpose. Despite adding fish to her diet, Holmes aims to continue eating mainly vegan foods.

Holmes' current meals are dictated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons menu, which includes options such as chicken, hamburgers, hot dogs, tacos, and macaroni—far removed from her previous meals, which were typically lighter and plant-based. In a June 2014 piece from Fortune, Holmes described her former dinners as consisting of a mixed salad without dressing and oil-free whole wheat spaghetti with tomatoes. She had a rigorous routine that included green juices made from ingredients like spinach and celery instead of relying on coffee for energy.

Formerly, her diet might have appeared nutritious, featuring green juices and whole grain options. However, nutritionist Tamar Samuels noted that a restrictive diet can have drawbacks. She highlighted in a discussion with HuffPost that a balanced diet requires a range of macro and micronutrients, which Holmes' choices lacked, particularly in protein and healthy fats.

Protein intake varies based on individual health goals, but the recommended daily allowance is 0.36 grams per pound of body weight. Since Holmes did not specify her protein sources before her incarceration, it is unclear how she met her needs. Additionally, by avoiding salad dressings and oils, Holmes may have limited her intake of healthy fats, which are crucial for heart health and nutrient absorption. Even her favored green juices may not provide the health benefits attributed to them, as the juicing process removes dietary fiber essential for gut health.