Kelly Ripa recently opened up about a last-minute strategy she used to fit into her Oscars dress—trying out her husband Mark Consuelos’ high-protein diet for three days. On an episode of Live with Kelly and Mark, Ripa described the struggle of zipping up her side-zip gown, joking that her “side skin” was nearly caught in the process. Faced with this wardrobe dilemma, Consuelos encouraged her to follow his strict eating plan, something Ripa usually avoids due to its disciplined nature.
Despite typically steering clear of her husband’s regimented meals, Ripa agreed to the short-term challenge. For 72 hours, she adopted a high-protein meal plan that included steak, yogurt, and vegetables—foods she admitted aren’t usually her go-to. “I’m not big on animal protein,” she said, but was thrilled with the results. After sticking to the plan, the dress fit perfectly. “I ate exactly how you told me to eat, and that dress zipped right up, no side skin,” she said proudly, adding that she “looked super fit.”
Consuelos, a firm believer in healthy eating, took the moment to highlight the importance of combining protein intake with adequate fiber. He explained that fiber plays a critical role in gut health and can help reduce the risk of chronic conditions like diabetes. His advice mirrors federal dietary guidelines, which recommend that adults consume 14 grams of fiber for every 1,000 calories—amounting to 22–28 grams daily for women and 28–34 grams for men, depending on age.
While protein is key for muscle maintenance, immunity, and even weight management, nutrition experts warn against over-reliance on it. Sports dietitian Nancy Clark told Business Insider that athletes often overdo protein, thinking more of it equals more muscle. In reality, she said, “it’s actually the carbs that fuel muscle,” and prioritizing protein too much can crowd out essential nutrients like carbohydrates, which are vital for energy and muscle function.
Ripa’s quick dietary shift may have been effective for her red carpet appearance, but it also points to larger conversations around nutrition, body image, and balance. Her experience underscores the pressure of public events and the often short-term nature of these dietary tweaks. Still, it offered a candid and humorous insight into the behind-the-scenes prep that celebrities often go through—and the role that even a partner’s advice can play in crunch-time fashion emergencies.
