Joey Chestnut: 'My Body Was Built To Eat 68 Hot Dogs'

Joey Chestnut: 'My Body Was Built To Eat 68 Hot Dogs'

Joey "Jaws" Chestnut has eaten 68 hot dogs in 10 minutes and as a result, has been the reigning champion of Nathan's July 4th hot dog eating contest since 2007. Chestnut has also eaten 42 bratwursts in 10 minutes, 47 grilled cheese sandwiches in 10 minutes, a 72-ounce steak in eight minutes and 52 seconds and 78 matzoh balls in one sitting. So, how does Chestnut train for these epic gutbusters? Vanity Fair writer John Heilpern spoke to Chestnut and learned that in order to eat a lot, Chestnut actually needs to practice not eating a lot:

His training regime for the Nathan’s hot-dog contest is a strict one of fasting, running, consuming protein supplements, drinking gallons of water to push his body to the limit, and performing full-scale eating workouts during which he simulates the actual tournament.

Chesnut assured Heilpern that his medical checkups are always excellent. "I think my body was built to eat 68 hot dogs," he said, "It’s natural.” This July 4th, Chestnut hopes to beat his own record and aim for 75 hot dogs in 10 minutes.

Watch Joey Chestnut's 2010 victory below.

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