Munster ditches Uber Eats, set to dine out on Blues
The talismanic Queensland five-eighth missed last year's series with groin and hip injuries and thought his 18-game Origin career could be over.
The 30-year-old has been on fire for Melbourne this year after losing four kilos in the pre-season and puts it down to cutting out fast food and reducing his alcohol consumption.
"I had a chat to Anthony Minichiello last year and the way he went about things with his body after he had some injuries and they pretty much told him he couldn't play again," Munster said.
"He changed his diet and that made his body feel better. There is science behind it all and I've been doing a little bit with him and it's worked well.
"I don't drink a whole heap. In previous years I was burning the candle at both ends or drinking every second weekend.
"As a rugby league player you win games with your teammates and you want to celebrate with them but I've found a way of celebrating with them but not drinking.
"I'm not saying I'm going to cut the piss right out but I haven't touched a beer for a while. My body feels better and I don't have to take any anti-inflammatory (tablets)."
Munster is also sourcing his own food rather than sitting on the couch and ordering in.
"I'm not eating fast food any more. I probably should have bought shares in Uber Eats before," he grinned.
"I make my own food now. I go to my local butcher down the road and buy meats, chicken … just the normal stuff.
"You are playing a professional sport and you've got to make sure you put the right fuel in your body. I've done it the last seven or eight months and it has helped my body recover."
Munster was Wally Lewis Medal winner in 2020 as player of the series and is the Maroons' most influential player who is ready to take control and dominate the Origin arena, starting with the series opener on May 28 at Suncorp Stadium.
"I don't think Billy (Slater) would have picked me if he didn't think I could (dominate Origin again)," he said.
"I'm just excited to be back here. Last year when I had a run of injuries with my groin and hips I honestly, being a dramatic person, thought my rep career was over.
"Now I have got it (surgery) done I feel amazing.
"I am a lot fitter now than I was a couple of years ago. It would be nice to have a similar year to 2020, but all I can do is work hard and do the little things for the team. If the big moments come hopefully I can deliver.
"I definitely missed it last year. I'd like these young blokes to have the opportunity to win a series and have some great memories with them."
Munster and wife Bianca have three children and fatherhood has helped the former wild man mature and change his lifestyle.
"It's the best thing I ever did. I had to grow up and it made me grow up," he grinned.
"You definitely don't want to be hung over looking after kids. That's one of the main reasons why I don't drink a whole heap."
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