Plant-Based Nutrition and Alcohol-Free Living for Runners: My Journey to Stronger Performance

Kayleigh Webster
Feb 3
3 min read

Updated: May 14

From Half Marathon to Plant-Based Nutrition for Running

In 2022, while training for my second half marathon, I read Eat and Run by Scott Jurek. It flipped everything I thought I knew about nutrition on its head. Here was a world-class ultrarunner thriving on a fully plant-based diet—no meat, no dairy, no compromise.

That book sparked a deeper dive. I absorbed The China Study and Spontaneous Healing, and although I didn’t finish both before making the switch, I knew I was ready. I kept learning through How Not to Die, Fibre Fuelled, and podcasts from Rich Roll and Simon Hill. These weren’t just athletes—they were thriving, high-performing humans.

At the same time, I decided to quit alcohol for my 18-week marathon training cycle. It had become a convenient saboteur—setting back progress I worked so hard to build. I wanted to show up fully for myself.

a transformation from meat eater and alcohol drinker to sober and plant-based — A startling transformation in body shape and happiness!

The Transformation: Nutrition, Recovery and Running Performance

A New Level of Recovery

After going plant-based, something clicked. DOMS all but disappeared. I recovered faster, trained harder, and didn’t suffer a single injury during marathon prep. Compared to my first half marathon block—where setbacks were constant—the difference was undeniable.

Unexpected Energy and Joy

The benefits went beyond performance. I had more energy, better sleep, and a stronger baseline of happiness. Proper fuelling felt like the missing piece—not just for running, but for life.

“I wasn’t just running better. I was living better.”

It’s Not One-Size-Fits-All

This journey isn’t about prescribing a diet or lifestyle. What worked for me might not suit everyone. Much of the benefit likely came from cutting ultra-processed foods and focusing on nutrient-dense meals. I believe everyone should explore what makes them feel strongest—whether that includes animal products or not.

I work with runners who follow various eating styles, and my role as a coach is to support each individual in building a lifestyle that aligns with their goals, values, and energy needs. I’m also continually learning and evolving—what worked last year might look slightly different today.

👉 Try easy, balanced recipes from The Happy Diet—my plant-based cookbook built for real athletes.

a plant-based cookbook from kayleigh webster the happy diet — Try some easy plant-based recipes from my cookbook - The Happy Diet

The Realisation: Alcohol Wasn’t Serving Me

Once the marathon ended, I returned to drinking. Instantly, I felt the negative shift—fatigue, poor recovery, and lost progress. It became crystal clear: alcohol wasn’t aligned with who I was becoming.

So in November 2022, I stopped entirely—and haven’t looked back.

The Benefits of Sobriety

Clearer mindset
Stable energy and mood
Improved consistency in training and life

Sobriety gave me momentum I didn’t know I needed. Like going plant-based, it became a cornerstone of my identity.

Building a Life for the Long Run

The decision to fuel with plants and cut out alcohol has transformed my running and reshaped my life. These weren’t easy choices, but they’ve become the foundation for resilience, confidence, and growth.

I’ve learned to:

Respect my body
Honour my energy
Fuel with intention

And that has made me stronger—not just as a runner, but as a human.

A Message for You

If you’re curious about making similar changes, start with an open mind. Read, listen, experiment. Most importantly, observe how your body feels—not just during workouts, but throughout your day. Whether you go fully plant-based or simply eat more whole foods, the difference can be profound.

These changes started with a single book and a marathon training plan. They became the catalyst for a lifestyle rooted in alignment, energy, and purpose.

Today, I’m alcohol-free, plant-fuelled, and running further—on my terms.

Want Support with Nutrition and Lifestyle Coaching?

As a coach, I integrate mindset, nutrition, and performance into a holistic plan that works for you. Whether you're ready for big change or taking your first small step:

👉 Apply for coaching