Madelaine Petsch, who plays Cheryl Blossom in TV series “Riverdale,” has long suffered from social anxiety and career-related stress. Despite being passionate about her profession, the star claims that other aspects of her job, such as appearing at events and functions, can play havoc with her mental health. Along with candles, essential oils, exercise, and the support of her boyfriend, her vegan diet, Petsch claims, plays a big role in helping to maintain her overall wellbeing — physically and mentally.
In an interview with Shape magazine, the actress revealed that vegetables, spinach, in particular, help to keep her on top form. “I was raised vegan, so I’ve always eaten super clean,” she explained. “I ate out of my dad’s garden my entire life. It’s pretty great, and I think I took it for granted. Now living in L.A., I’m realizing that I had organic food at my fingertips 24/7, and I wasn’t paying $15 for a head of broccoli.”
Petsch continued, “these days, I eat steamed spinach with every meal. When I have a nice big bowl of steamed spinach, I just feel better. I think it’s all a mental thing, but I do see a difference in my skin and energy. And yes, I have it with breakfast too — avocado toast and a side of steamed spinach go great together. Or I’ll do a spinach smoothie with berries. I try to incorporate it into every meal.”
This is not the first time the star has spoken out about the mental and physical benefits of her plant-based diet. In March, she spoke with People magazine about how she manages long days on the set of “Riverdale.” “Being vegan keeps my body fueled and running smoothly,” she claimed. Adding that “clean, non-processed foods, [help] avoid feeling fatigued on long work days.”
Petsch isn’t the only celebrity to discover the mental health benefits of a vegan diet. In May, footballer Fabian Delph spoke of his new vegan diet and exercise regime, he said, “I feel that my new lifestyle is key to my state and my overall outlook on life. Strengthening how I view things on the whole.”
Image Credit: Madelaine Petsch
