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Erling Braut Haaland, Norway’s World Cup star, is reported to ingest roughly 6,000 calories daily, including organ meats and raw milk—a regimen that has attracted notice given his recent on‑field achievements.
However, the practicality and health implications of such a diet are nuanced; experts consulted by MedPage Today indicate it may not be suitable for all individuals.
Consuming 6,000 calories in a single day is undoubtedly substantial, noted Lauren Link, MS, RD, CSSD, assistant athletics director for sports nutrition at Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana. ‘While it is high, it is not extraordinary within the realm of elite sport,’ she said.
Link, also president of the American Sports and Performance Dietitians Association, explained that typical elite athletes far exceed the average person’s recommended 2,000 calories. ‘The lower end might be around 3,000 calories, with many regularly consuming 4,000 to 5,000, and some reaching 6,000 or even 7,000 calories per day.’
Thus, while the calorie count is indeed high, it falls within the spectrum of sports nutrition practices.
Giancarlo Carvalho, DPT, a physical therapist at Northwell Health STARS Rehabilitation in East Meadow, New York, concurred.
‘Every athlete is unique,’ Carvalho explained. ‘Their nutritional requirements and metabolic processing vary; however, for high‑level athletes aiming to increase lean muscle mass, such caloric intake is fairly typical.’
He cited Olympic swimming champion Michael Phelps, who reportedly consumed up to 10,000 calories daily during competition, noting that despite his extraordinary caloric intake, Phelps remained one of the leanest athletes.
Standing approximately 6’5″ and weighing around 207 pounds, Haaland possesses predominantly lean muscle with minimal body fat, a combination Carvalho describes as a ‘genetic anomaly.’
Carvalho estimates that Haaland’s basal caloric requirement is roughly 3,200 to 3,500 calories daily to maintain weight; however, building lean muscle demands significantly more energy, making an intake of about 6,000 calories reasonable.
Both Carvalho and Link highlighted that organ meats are exceptionally nutrient‑dense.
‘Organ meats can be a healthy addition to a diet,’ Link remarked, ‘but I would counsel individuals to ensure they source them responsibly.’
Link expressed a different view regarding raw milk, which has become increasingly popular.
She explained that the primary distinction of raw milk is the absence of pasteurization, a process that eliminates harmful pathogens. While Haaland may have access to well‑sourced products, raw milk still carries a risk of bacterial contamination.
Link emphasized moderation in red meat consumption for both athletes and the general public, noting that excessive intake can adversely affect cardiovascular health.
Link also cautioned against excessively high protein intake for the average individual, recommending roughly 1 gram of protein per kilogram of body weight. Overconsumption may strain finances and potentially harm cardiovascular health.
She routinely advises athletes to divide their plates roughly equally among carbohydrates, protein sources, and fruits/vegetables.
Carvalho advises anyone uncertain about their dietary needs or caloric requirements to consult a licensed professional, who can develop a personalized plan for weight management or body composition goals.
Carvalho noted that Haaland likely works with some of the world’s leading experts. ‘If you observe his performance, it reflects their effectiveness,’ he added, emphasizing that input directly influences output.
Link pointed out several strengths in Haaland’s diet, including a focus on whole foods, abundant fruits and vegetables, and quality protein sources. ‘Athletes of his stature also benefit from superior access to premium ingredients,’ she said.
‘I hope people don’t feel compelled to emulate every aspect of his regimen,’ Link cautioned. ‘A healthy diet can be achieved by simply incorporating more fruits and vegetables and ensuring consistent protein intake.’
Link noted that individuals can adopt several beneficial principles from Haaland’s approach without replicating the entire plan.
