Luke Carlson says it doesn’t get boringNeil Shaw Assistant Editor (Money and Lifestyle)
07:25, 29 Apr 2026
Luke Carlson doesn’t have to think about his meals
A man puts his success down to eating the same breakfast every day – and either chicken or turkey for lunch. E very day for the past 22 years, Luke Carlson has begun his day with the exact same breakfast – a bowl of porridge and banana with protein powder and creatine followed by a protein bar.
Lunch is just as consistent: a turkey or chicken sandwich, every single day.
Luke, 46, said: “It is how I avoid decision fatigue; I dial in on the macro-nutrients that I need while staying in an appropriate calorie range.” And it doesn’t get boring, he insists. “I look forward to the foods. I like them and they are nutritious; I can find or pack these foods during travel, and I travel pretty much every week of the year.”
Luke has stayed fit and healthy
Luke’s approach mirrors that of high-profile figures known for simplifying daily choices. Mark Zuckerberg wears near-identical grey T-shirts every day, Steve Jobs was defined by his black turtleneck and Barack Obama limited his suits to blue or grey while in office to avoid unnecessary decisions.
As CEO of fitness company Discover Strength, Luke says he faces constant demands on his time and eating the same meals removes one variable from his busy schedule – and enables to hit his fitness goals, he says. Luke typically eats between 1,900 and 2,200 calories a day, which helps him stay within his recommended intake and maintain his physique.
To introduce a degree of variety, he alternates between sliced bread and wraps for his sandwiches. Dinner offers more flexibility, usually chicken, steak or salmon. “I have done this since I was 24 and I found a routine that worked well with me. I don’t get bored, as I get a little variety.
“I learned about ten years ago when my travel really ramped up, if I snacked on flights and really indulged at restaurants while on the road, I would gain weight and fat. Being disciplined with my nutrition during business travel is important.”
Luke’s diet routine helps him stay on top
Luke, who is single and without children, says his lifestyle has been accepted by those around him, including past partners and colleagues. “They all understand my nutrition habits and have been flexible to work around them. They might joke or give me a hard time, but they know I need a sandwich for lunch – always. As do all my coworkers.”
His efforts to reduce decision-fatigue extend beyond food. When flying, which he does several times a week, he wears the same outfit each time: Lululemon trousers, a Lululemon top and white Cole Haan shoes.
“Every day for lunch I eat a turkey or chicken sandwich. I will have a small dark skim mocha with no whip, a protein shake and an apple. People close to me understand that these are my non-negotiables – but I don’t want to ruin or negatively impact other people’s experiences. So, I’m happy to pack my own food or pick restaurants that they would enjoy while I can still find something that meets my needs.”
The strict diet enables Luke to keep his creativity on the business and achieve his work goals, he says. “These are not only nutritious options that fuel my day, but the consistency also helps me avoid decision fatigue. I know exactly what I’ll have every day. I travel extensively and I know exactly what my routine will be, overall helping me as a CEO,” he adds.