We all know no one's perfect, and even those with the most toned and gym-honed physiques will indulge in a cheeky Nandos every now and then. But why is it still so satisfying to discover that the humans we place on pedestals - celebrities, influencers, royalty - are actually real people?
That was the question on the lips of one multi-millionaire fitness guru, who revealed in a candid snap on social media that she does, in fact, eat fast food - despite what her fans might think.
Kayla Itsines, an Australian personal trainer, author and entrepreneur, has cultivated a strong following in the fitness industry for her high-intensity workout programmes and healthy lifestyle. Sweat, a meal-planning and exercise app she co-founded with her former partner, sold for a staggering $400 million in 2021.
But despite her lean physique, gruelling workouts and exercise empire, the 30-year-old says she regularly indulges in fast food - and she can't understand why her followers seem to think she doesn't.
The fitness fanatic shared a series of snaps with her 13.9 million Instagram followers on Tuesday, showing herself happily enjoying an egg burger as she holidayed in Los Angeles.
"I don't know why people are SO surprised when they find out that I eat fast food!" she captioned the pics.
"I have been sharing my food philosophy of a balanced diet with NO restrictions for YEARS now… but it seems easier for some people to look at me [and] put me in a 'box' rather than to actually try to understand me and what I stand for."
Itsines also shared her top tips for achieving a balanced and healthy lifestyle - which includes a burger every now and then (hallelujah!)
"[I believe in] a sustainable approach to fuelling your body by eating foods you LOVE without complete elimination and restriction. Yes... that includes an occasional burger!" she wrote.
The influencer added that health and fitness goals should never "get in the way of life".
"Instead, integrate them into a healthy, balanced lifestyle that you can ENJOY," she said. "The things I recommend for you, as a trainer, are things I fundamentally believe in!"
To clap back at her critics, Itsines then revealed her McDonald's order - a large McChicken meal with fries, a coke, a small caramel sundae and an apple pie.
Itsines' candid post has resonated with her followers, many of whom noted that the admission only made the star more relatable.
"I just love that you are sharing yourself so much more than you used to. Makes you so much more relatable," one said.
"Everything in moderation is key!" another agreed.
"Best recommendations ever! Balance is the most important," a third added.
Last month, the personal trainer went public with her new relationship, revealing she was dating her longtime friend and fellow trainer, Jae Woodroffe.
Itsines split from her fiancé and former business partner, Tobi Pearce, in August 2020. They share a two-year-old daughter, Arna.
Earlier this month, former professional footballer David Beckham revealed his wife, former Spice Girls star Victoria Beckham, has eaten the same meal every day for 25 years.
The sports star also admitted he loves having the family home to himself so he can indulge in whatever dish his heart desires, such as Wagyu beef and red wine - with a side of football, of course.
