Legendary competitive eater Joey Chestnut discloses what happened to his body after eating 76 hot dogs and buns in only 10 minutes
Joey Chestnut, a living legend in the competitive eating realm, has etched his name in history by winning the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest a staggering 15 times. In 2021, he shattered his own record by devouring a jaw-dropping 76 hot dogs and buns in a mere 10 minutes. However, have you ever wondered what happens to Chestnut’s body after the dust settles and the contest concludes?
In an exclusive interview with Insider, Chestnut shed light on the aftermath of the intense competition. He likened the feeling to the post-Thanksgiving indulgence most people can relate to, albeit on an amplified scale. “It’s kind of like that, except really, really bad,” he confessed, describing the sensation of extreme bloating and exhaustion that follows such a colossal feat.
But how does Chestnut manage to recuperate from such an ordeal? And why does his love for hot dogs, often enjoyed with Cheez Whiz, persist even after countless contests? Let’s delve into the intriguing details.
Immediately after the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest, Chestnut finds himself “sweating like a madman.” While he himself doesn’t notice any peculiar aroma emanating from his pores, others have claimed to detect the distinct scent of hot dogs. His sweat, however, feels sticky and greasy, a residue of the gastronomic battle he has triumphantly conquered. After fulfilling his post-contest interviews, which serve to keep him focused and calm during the competition, Chestnut retreats to his hotel room for a well-deserved nap, seeking respite from the exhaustive endeavor.
The hours tick by, and approximately four hours after the contest, nature begins to reclaim its course. Chestnut humorously acknowledges that such bodily functions are entirely natural, considering the enormous quantity of food ingested. However, he ensures that he enters the contest with an empty stomach, thanks to a two-day cleanse consisting solely of water and lemon juice. By doing so, Chestnut primes his body to digest copious amounts of food swiftly. While it typically takes two full days for his body to regain a sense of normalcy, Chestnut’s indomitable spirit and love for hot dogs remain undeterred.
Like marathon runners who push themselves to the brink of exhaustion, yet still adore the act of running, Chestnut’s unwavering affection for hot dogs endures. When he’s not training or competing, he indulges in his favorite frankfurter combinations. Mustard and raw onions rank high on his list of preferred toppings, but he unabashedly admits to relishing the addition of Cheez Whiz. Addressing the skepticism of hot dog purists, Chestnut unabashedly defends the merits of Cheez Whiz, grilled onions, and even occasional ketchup. His experimentation knows no bounds, with toppings like kimchi and cream cheese elevating the hot dog experience to unexpected heights.
While the world of competitive eating is undoubtedly demanding, Chestnut shows no signs of hanging up his napkin anytime soon. As long as his body cooperates, he envisions himself continuing this extraordinary journey for years to come. Furthermore, he eagerly anticipates a worthy adversary, a true boss, be it a man or a woman, who will challenge his supremacy. Chestnut’s passion for the competition remains unyielding, and even the prospect of being defeated poses a formidable obstacle to his departure from this captivating realm.
Joey Chestnut’s story is a testament to the resilience and relentless pursuit of excellence. As we unravel the enigmatic world of competitive eating and its impact on his being, we witness the unwavering spirit of a true champion and the unwavering love he holds for the humble hot dog. In a realm where limits are pushed and boundaries blurred, Chestnut’s journey serves as a captivating tale of determination, recovery, and a never-ending appetite for success.
