In a recent heartfelt episode of the State of Mind with Maurice Benard podcast, Jeff Timmons, the creator and member of the iconic ’90s band 98 Degrees, opened up about a dark chapter in his life and the transformative diet that became his lifeline. At 52, Timmons shared his struggles with mental health amidst the initial rise of the band, revealing how his personal battles almost led him to despair just as fame beckoned.
Timmons reminisced about the early days of 98 Degrees when everything seemed exciting yet overwhelming. “It was when we first got signed,” he explained. “We hadn’t even broken yet, but when we got signed to Motown, they wanted us to be cool and urban, and I’m the corniest non-cool guy ever.” Facing pressure from the label regarding his image and behavior, he found himself spiraling into an identity crisis, questioning his place in the world and his worthiness of success.
Relocating to New York City to embrace a more urban lifestyle exacerbated his struggles. “I just didn’t feel well, and I really got to a point where it became very scary, that I thought maybe I might take my own life,” Timmons confessed. The irony of being on the brink of achieving his dreams while grappling with such despair was evident as he recounted moments where he contemplated ending it all.
In a moment of clarity, Timmons reached out for help, calling his mother during a particularly rough time. “I called my mom, I’m like, ‘I’m not feeling well. I’ve got to do something about this. I don’t know what it is.'” The turning point came when his band’s manager suggested he see a psychologist. The session unearthed the root cause of Timmons’ malaiseâ€â€a diet that was detrimental to his health.
“He asked me what I was eating, and I said, ‘Well, I just drink beer all the time and I go eat spaghetti by the pound with nothing on it,'” he recalled. The psychologist suspected low blood sugar levels and suggested a glucose tolerance test, leading to the diagnosis of hypoglycemia. Timmons was put on medication but also encouraged to adopt a low-carb ketogenic dietâ€â€a recommendation that would change the course of his life.
With the combined approach of medication and a newfound diet, Timmons gradually regained control of his mental health. “I work out all the time,” he shared. “Of course, you want to work out for aesthetics, but I do it for mental health, physical health, spiritual health.” He emphasized that his adherence to the keto diet was less about physical appearance and more about maintaining a stable mental state.
Eating primarily steak, chicken, fish, eggs, and bacon, Timmons has seen significant improvements in his overall well-being. “When I don’t stay on the diet, I feel like crap, perform like crap, not pleasant to be around,” he said, candidly revealing the importance of his choices. Coffee has also become a staple in his routine, famously transformed into “bulletproof coffee” with added butter or coconut oil for that extra boost of energy.
Jeff Timmons’ journey illustrates the profound impact that diet can have on mental health. As he continues to navigate the ups and downs of life, the importance of self-care and personal well-being is clear. To see the full interview, tune in to the State of Mind with Maurice Benard podcast or find it on your preferred podcast platform, and take a deeper dive into the narratives shaping the landscape of mental health awareness.
Whether facing anxiety, depression, or simply seeking a more positive outlook, the STATE OF MIND PODCAST serves as a vital resource for those striving to enhance their mental health. Hosted by the profound Maurice Benard, his discussions are filled with honesty and courage, aimed at breaking the stigma surrounding mental health issues.
With new episodes premiering every Sunday at noon EST, listeners can subscribe on YouTube or catch the latest insights on General Hospital, airing weekdays on ABC or anytime on Hulu. Jeff Timmons’ story is a powerful reminder that recovery and resilience are always within reach, especially when we choose to prioritize our health.