Supermodel Carol Alt has revealed the extent of her past health struggles, stating she was "on the verge of death" due to debilitating issues that left her severely drained and weak. Alt, known for her 1980s modeling career, including a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover in 1982, detailed her lifelong battle with allergies, frequent coughing that ruptured her stomach, and constant exhaustion. During her career, she subsisted on poor nutrition, including coffee, sugar, and processed foods, leading to digestive problems, frequent headaches, and sinus issues.
Alt recounted how her friend Steve Cantor suggested she consult Dr. Timothy Brantley, a proponent of the raw food diet. Initially hesitant, Alt eventually contacted Brantley, who identified potential issues with her diet, including allergies to ingredients in certain beverages. She described her past eating habits, such as having Scotch coffee with whipped cream or pizza bread and cappuccino for breakfast, and relying on sugar and caffeine for energy.
In 1996, at age 35, Alt made a significant change by adopting a raw food diet. She has since reported substantial improvements in her energy levels and overall health, no longer feeling constantly exhausted. Alt has become an advocate for natural, unprocessed foods, writing books on their benefits for health, energy, and aging. She emphasizes that processed foods contain harmful chemicals, preservatives, and unhealthy fats, and that healthier alternatives can be equally satisfying. Alt expressed a desire to be remembered as an inspiration who helped people live better lives through better eating.