Phelps described his diet and the number of calories a day(I didn't hear this interview; does anyone know the figure he stated?) I think it was 8,000 a day. And everyday the media mentioned it, the number got bigger - up to 12,000. Also, the media doesn't mention that it's unhealthy.

I don't think its possible to even eat 8,000 without the stomach regecting some of it.

I used to eat like that(but only 4,000 calories) when I was young: a pound of pasta at a meal, too many eggs and not much fruit or veggies. It messed up my digestive tract. I could never eat like that now and go for a swim. I'd be in bed in a food coma.

And, the body has to assimilate(digest etc) the food for it to benefit you. So I don't think Phelps needs that much food. Even those 115 lb. marathon runners don't eat 8,000 a day.

I just worry that people will contribute that diet to his success. But diet doesn't effect physical condition...at least not when you're young.

My dad was telling me about this! It's so insane. But he carries what little weight he as really well because he's so tall (6'6, right?)

Jesus. 8,000 cal a day? I barely do 1,500 a day and I probably weigh more than he does!

yeah that is sooooo insane!! i heard about it on the radio a couple of weeks & i was dumbfounded when they said he ate between 10,000 and 12,000 calories a day. his breakfast alone was more than what i eat a day. and they wanted to see if someone could even eat what phelps ate for breakfast and the guy didn't even make it halfway through all of the food. lol. it's insane how he eats all of that, burns it all off, and still has a hot body!