Celebrity Q&A: Devin Alexander, celebrity chef

Media personality, healthy comfort food chef, weight loss expert, and New York Times best-selling author, Devin Alexander is the host of the “Great American Chefs Tour,” which will be airing on national public broadcasting stations this November. Devin’s unique approach to healthy cooking and her motivational personal story have landed her appearances on more weight loss and fitness shows than any other food expert or nutritionist in America. Having maintained her 70-pound weight loss for more than 16 years, she lives and eats her message: You don’t have to deprive yourself to be fit and healthy.

What was the “ah-ha” moment that made you start taking your health seriously?
I weighed close to 200 pounds by the time I was 15 and was brutally picked on in school. I had tried dieting, but it wasn’t until I read that “If you cut 100 calories from your diet per day, on average, you’ll lose 10 pounds in a year.” A light bulb went off because it meant that I didn’t have to give up all of my favorite foods (or cooking, which was my favorite thing to do). I just had to use my cooking skills to make Devinly Decadent meals and treats.

Do you have a secret habit that is part of your healthy lifestyle?
I actually have a ton! I drink at least two glasses of green tea every morning. I never say, “I shouldn’t be eating this” (or even allow myself to think it) if I choose to eat something no matter how indulgent it is. I will not allow any men’s T-shirts in my closet (only fitted girl tees). I never eat when I have to pee.

If you could permanently get rid of one bad habit, what would it be?
I find comfort in eating at night in front of the TV. I would get rid of that.

What is your greatest health achievement or milestone?
There are two that really stand out: I’ve lost 70 pounds and have kept it off for close to 20 years. And I helped someone else lose 220 pounds.

What is your biggest health hang-up in others?
They make excuses about cooking — it’s so easy to eat super yummy, healthy foods if you cook for yourself. And cooking is easy!

Run, walk, ride or swim?
All of the above!

If you were a fruit or vegetable, what kind would you be?
A tomato. I love red, look good in it and I’m firm on the outside with a softer center.

If you could “superpower” one of your five senses, what would it be and why?
Taste — maybe less of everything would be more satisfying.

If you could break a world endurance record, what would it be?
I’d be able to get more Americans healthy than any other expert — even if it meant I didn’t require sleep to accomplish it!

If you could tell one thing to your adolescent self, what would it be?
You will someday know how to eat ridiculously delicious brownies and bowls of meatballs and all of your Italian favorites and feel pretty and be happy!