Coi Leray is one of the most gifted artists of her generation—and she loves interacting with her fans. The rapper posted an Instagram video of herself wearing a barely-there silver swimsuit, much to the appreciation of her followers. “Flawless,” one commenter said. How does she stay so fit? Read on to see 5 ways Leray stays in shape and the photos that prove they work—and to get beach-ready yourself, don’t miss these essential 30 Best-Ever Celebrity Bathing Suit Photos!
Leray says there are very few foods she doesn’t like, but considers fresh mango a treat. “Mangoes contain reasonable levels of both vitamins A and C,” says registered nutritionist Nicola Shubrook. “Vitamin C is involved in the formation of collagen – the protein that acts as a scaffold to skin, keeping it plump and firm. Vitamin C is one of the most important antioxidants, playing a protective role against environmental damage; a deficiency of vitamin C can affect wound healing and increase fine lines and wrinkles. Our hair also requires vitamin C both for collagen production and also to help with the absorption of iron – an important mineral needed for hair growth.”
Leray is a confident cook (she has her own cooking channel!) and one of her favorite dishes to make is steak, potatoes, and lobster tail with butter. “There are a number of unique minerals and vitamins found in large quantities in lobsters, including an important B vitamin, B12, which is directly linked with maintaining nerve integrity and keeping your nervous system functioning properly,” says John Staughton, BASc, BFA. “Furthermore, lobster is a very good source of choline, another water-soluble nutrient that can increase your production of neurotransmitters. This can increase brain function and efficiency, and even protect you from the effects of neurodegenerative diseases.”
Apples and cheddar cheese are Leray’s favorite airport snack. “Apples are rich in polyphenols, protective plant compounds, one of which is a flavonoid called quercetin,” Shubrook says. “Research by the American Journal for Clinical Nutrition found that those with higher quercetin levels (mainly through eating apples) had a lower risk of several chronic diseases including heart disease and even asthma.”
Leray loves to eat blue crab, especially when she’s in Baltimore. “Typically, all shellfish is low in calories and a good source of protein and healthy fats, as well as a good array of nutrients, including zinc, B12, iron and selenium,” says Shubrook. “They are also more nutritious if they are steamed or baked rather than breaded or fried.”
Another “famous” breakfast Leray loves is some home cooked (slightly runny) eggs, steak, and potatoes. “Both the egg white and yolk are rich in nutrients, including proteins, vitamins and minerals,” says registered nutritionist Jo Lewin. “The yolk contains fat-soluble vitamins (such as vitamins D and E) and essential fatty acids; while most of the protein is found in the egg white.”