The famous actor Matt Damon recently discussed the dramatic transformation he underwent for his role in the upcoming film ‘The Odyssey,’ directed by Christopher Nolan. Damon revealed that this transformation included permanently removing gluten from his diet, a decision he described as life-altering.

During a conversation with Amy Poehler on her ‘Good Hang’ podcast, Damon shared insights into how gluten was affecting his health. ‘It’s just a complete lifestyle change,’ Damon stated, in response to Poehler’s comment about his intense physical transformation at his age.

‘There’s no planning it. Any other time I tried to do something like that, it was always like, well, My time, my workouts… and this was like… just put your foot on the gas and that’s it. And that’s the only way to do it, and eat a little less,’ Damon explained.

He further shared that eliminating gluten revolutionized his well-being. While reflecting on his diet, Damon insisted he no longer desired gluten due to the adverse effects he experienced, which he hadn’t been aware of previously.

Poehler remarked on how their generation was largely unaware of food sensitivities during their youth. Damon agreed, stating, ‘We didn’t talk about it, and I didn’t realize the level to which it was affecting me. Like it’s completely changed my life these last couple years of not eating it…it’s a bummer.’ Despite missing foods like bread, beer, pasta, and pizza, Damon emphasized that he feels much better without gluten.

The elimination of gluten played a significant role in helping Damon achieve the desired physical state for his character, Odysseus. Earlier this year, Damon detailed the intense regimen he followed to play this legendary hero.

Speaking on Travis and Jason Kelce’s ‘New Heights’ podcast, Damon explained his weight-loss journey, dropping down to 167 pounds, his lowest since high school. He recounted focusing on a strict diet and emphasized how Nolan envisioned the character lean yet strong, thus influencing Damon’s fitness objectives.

Additionally, Damon credited his success to working closely with a personal trainer, highlighting the importance of setting clear goals to stay focused throughout the demanding process. The actor has experienced significant weight changes in previous roles, notably shedding 40 to 50 pounds for the film ‘Courage Under Fire,’ which almost led to permanent heart damage according to a doctor’s warning.