Alexa PenaVega Opens Up About Her Past Battle With Bulimia While Defending Her Gluten-Free Diet

Actress receives criticism while enjoying a cruise ship vacation

By Mike Vulpo Mar 16, 2016 11:25 PMTags
Alexa PenaVega, Instagram Instagram

Alexa PenaVega wants to make it clear: She is more than proud of her healthy body and lifestyle today.

While enjoying a vacation aboard Royal Caribbean's Anthem of the Sea cruise ship, the actress found herself saying no to some delicious foods.

"When you want the chips but you can't have them :( #GlutenFreeProblems," she shared on Instagram. "#NeedCornChips! (these are not corn chips... If they were they would be gone.)."

Almost two hours after the picture was posted, some followers began to criticize Alexa for following a gluten-free diet. As a result, the Nashville and Spy Kids star went back on social media to explain her latest diet.

"Wow. I am actually shocked at how many people felt the need to criticize me for a gluten free diet. I mentioned it not thinking much of it," she began in her lengthy post. "But apparently there is a lot to say on this. I want to keep this as real and as kind and hopefully inspiring as possible."

A photo posted by Alexa PenaVega (@vegaalexa) on

What came next from the former Dancing With the Stars contestant was new details about her past struggle with bulimia that lasted for almost six years. 

Fortunately, the Hollywood star was able to recover with the help of professionals and her faith.

"I had so many insecurities about my body! Since overcoming that obstacle in my life (By the Grace of God) I had a lot of trouble processing all sorts of foods in my body. I had done a lot of damage and recovery from it all was a PAINFUL process. But 100% worth it," she revealed. "My body feels strong. I have energy. I feel like a woman!!"

A photo posted by Alexa PenaVega (@vegaalexa) on

She continued, "I finally have the nutrients I had deprived my ‘temple' of… Now, there are certain foods that still give me some trouble... So for me... It is easier to eliminate those foods so that my body absorbs all the nutrients I can get!"

As Alexa continues her tropical vacation with Carlos PenaVega, the singer feels comfortable posing for pictures in her swimsuit and showing off her figure near the ocean blue water.  And no matter what the critics say, Alexa feels confident in how she looks.

"So... Here Is my body. It is mine and I am proud of it. I may not hold up to Hollywood's teenie tiny standards but hey... You can't please everyone," she concluded. "I am me and I am healthy!!! And BEYOND happy and THANKFUL! That is all I can be. #GodisGood #LifeisGood."

Watch: Alexa PenaVega Cheers on Husband After "DWTS" Loss