Danica McKellar Admits She ‘Loved’ Eating Her Placenta After Giving Birth

The Wonder Years’ Danica McKellar recently shared a surprisingly candid story about her postpartum experience: she genuinely enjoyed eating her placenta. The revelation came during an interview on “The Bobby Bones Show” podcast, where McKellar, 51, admitted to being “embarrassed” by how much she liked the taste, comparing it to a “best filet mignon.”

McKellar, who rose to fame playing Winnie Cooper in the beloved 1980s and 90s coming-of-age series, explained that her doula suggested she try a piece of the placenta shortly after giving birth to her son, Draco, now 15. “I’d just given birth, and I’m like, ‘Sure.’ I mean, you’re not in your right mind,” she told host Bobby Bones. The actress’s reaction was unexpected, even to herself, leading her to briefly question if she was engaging in something… unconventional. “Am I a cannibal?” she reportedly wondered.

Postpartum Practices and a Growing Trend

Even as McKellar’s experience might raise eyebrows, she isn’t alone in exploring the practice of placentophagy – the consumption of the placenta. The trend has gained traction in recent years, with proponents believing it offers various health benefits, though the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention published a report in 2017 stating that scientific evidence to support these benefits is lacking. The CDC also cautioned about potential risks associated with placenta ingestion.

McKellar’s method of consumption – tasting a piece of the raw placenta – differs from how many other celebrities have approached the practice. Stars like Alicia Silverstone, Hilary Duff, Kim Kardashian, and Mandy Moore have reportedly consumed their placentas in pill form. This encapsulation process is often marketed as a way to avoid the taste and texture concerns associated with eating the placenta directly.

From Winnie Cooper to Multi-Hyphenate

McKellar’s career trajectory has been remarkably diverse since her days as Winnie Cooper. After The Wonder Years concluded, she deliberately sought to distance herself from the iconic role, as she discussed in a recent interview with Us Weekly. She went on to earn a degree in mathematics from UCLA and has since become a successful author, writing several educational books aimed at making math more accessible to young readers, including 2010’s “Hot X: Algebra Exposed!” and “Maths Doesn’t Suck.”

Beyond her literary pursuits, McKellar has continued to act, appearing in television shows like The West Wing and How I Met Your Mother, and has become a familiar face in Hallmark films. Her ability to navigate different creative avenues speaks to a deliberate effort to build a multifaceted career beyond the confines of a single, defining role.

Navigating Typecasting and Embracing Authenticity

McKellar’s willingness to openly discuss her postpartum experience, and even her surprising enjoyment of placenta, reflects a broader trend of celebrities embracing greater authenticity and vulnerability. Just two months ago, she shared a makeup-free selfie on Instagram, celebrating her 51st birthday and promoting a message of self-acceptance. “Here’s 51! No makeup, no filters,” she wrote, emphasizing the importance of feeling good both inside and out.

This willingness to present a more unfiltered version of herself contrasts with the often-curated image of celebrities in the public eye. It also aligns with a growing cultural conversation around postpartum recovery and the diverse experiences of motherhood.

Personal Life and Ongoing Projects

McKellar shares her son, Draco, with her ex-husband, music composer Mike Verta, from whom she separated in 2012. She is currently married to attorney Scott Sveslosky, whom she wed in 2014. She recently reminisced about a childhood love triangle with Candace Cameron Bure and Jeremy Miller in an interview with Fox News Digital.

Currently, McKellar continues to balance her acting career with her writing and advocacy work. Her recent projects include appearances in various television films and ongoing efforts to promote STEM education through her books and public appearances.

What’s Next for Danica McKellar?

McKellar’s career appears to be in a steady state of diversification. While no major upcoming projects have been announced at the time of writing, her consistent work in television films and her continued focus on her educational books suggest a commitment to maintaining a balanced and fulfilling career. Her social media presence indicates a continued emphasis on wellness and authenticity, potentially opening doors for future opportunities in lifestyle and self-care spaces.