Christen Harper Embraces Plant-Based Diet for SI Swimsuit Shoot

Christen Harper, an SI Swimsuit model, reveals how a plant-based diet has transformed her body and mindset, enabling her to pose with confidence for the magazine's 60th-anniversary issue.

When it came to slipping into a skimpy swimsuit for the 2023 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue, Christen Harper was ready for her close-up. The model, who co-won the 2021 Swim Search and was named co-Rookie of the Year, insists that she didn't have to embark on a new diet to get in shape for her photoshoot. Instead, she credits her regular plant-based eating habits with giving her the confidence to pose with conviction.

For Harper, adopting a plant-based lifestyle was a natural choice. As an animal lover, she couldn't bear the thought of hurting animals for food. Living in California, which she describes as "the mecca for plant-based eating," made the transition even easier. With an array of fresh fruits, vegetables, and meat alternatives available, she found it simple to incorporate more plant-forward ingredients into her meals.

"For me, it was an easy choice, and it makes me feel so good," Harper shares. "I feel like I'm glowing from the inside out just eating that type of food."

While her switch to a plant-based diet has been overwhelmingly positive, Harper admits that giving up sushi was the most challenging aspect. Growing up with Japanese heritage, sushi held a special place in her heart. However, she discovered that there are plenty of delicious plant-based alternatives available these days, such as tofu and avocado rolls.

Harper emphasizes that enjoying plant-based dishes doesn't have to mean sacrificing taste or social experiences. She encourages those curious about plant-based eating to experiment with different recipes and ingredients until they find dishes they love.

"Remember, you're choosing to feed your body," Harper advises. "Have fun with it."

One of her favorite plant-based indulgences is Taco Bell. By swapping out the meat for beans, she can still enjoy her beloved tacos and Crunchwrap Supremes. Harper also enjoys creating her own plant-based dishes, such as spicy rigatoni with a homemade sauce and soups with fresh seasonal vegetables.

Harper believes that her journey with SI Swimsuit has given her a body confidence boost, helping her embrace her natural shape. She credits the magazine with promoting inclusivity and celebrating women of all body types.

"You feel constantly judged, and you're often comparing yourself. It was partly Sports Illustrated that gave me the confidence to be me," Harper says. "It was wonderful to flip through the pages and see women who looked like me."

Off the runway, Harper is an avid volunteer and animal welfare advocate. She also shares her plant-based journey through her social media platforms, hoping to inspire others to make healthier choices.

Harper met her fiancé, Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff, on Raya, a dating app favored by celebrities. The couple has been dating since 2019 and announced their engagement in June 2022. Goff has been a steadfast supporter of Harper's modeling career, cheering her on throughout her SI Swimsuit journey.

"He was like, 'You've got to go for it. Who cares if you don't get it? Just put yourself out there,'" Harper recalls. "And he's been there for me throughout this entire experience."

As Harper continues to embrace her role as an SI Swimsuit model, she remains dedicated to promoting body positivity and embracing a plant-based lifestyle that fuels her both physically and emotionally.