Mehcad Brooks is an American actor and fashion model. Beginning his career as a Calvin Klein underwear model, he played the role of Matthew Applewhite on the ABC TV drama Desperate Housewives, as well as Benedict “Eggs” Talley in the second season of HBO’s True Blood. It’s hard not to notice Mehcad’s chiseled physique, and rightfully so, he’s earned it. When asked about it, he doesn’t take himself too seriously and says:

“I just work out more days than not…or try to at least. I also am on a strict regimented french fry and pizza diet. Depending what you put on the pizza, one can cover all the major food groups. (Laughing). Actually I grew up in a healthy household. Mom cooked fish, turkey, chicken, etc. Fresh veggies. I lucked out. Food is fuel for the body and if you can put good fuel in your car then you should do the same for your body.”

Brooks later revealed that he does upwards of 1,000 sit-ups a day a couple of times a week (yes, 1,000) to keep his midsection rock hard. Brooks is the son of former NFL wide receiver, Billy Brooks. He turned down basketball scholarships and offers from Ivy League schools in favor of going to University of Southern California to study broadcast media. He then left to pursue an acting career.

“What makes me tick? I’m a pretty simple guy,” explains Brooks.

 “I like the simple things in life. I’m very close to my family and keep positive people in my life. I also love to meditate. It centers me and it’s a great way to relieve stress. I love being out in nature and traveling. Seeing the world firsthand forces you to understand how we are all interconnected and makes you more responsible about giving back to the Earth and protecting her gifts. And you can always find me on my guitar, on my Wii and recently on a surfboard.”

Read more about Mehcad Brooks and nutrition at BlackDoctor.Org.

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