Nayanthara opens up about ’embracing nourishment’: ‘Now, I know it’s not about counting calories’

"I eat with pleasure and without guilt, no longer craving junk food," Nayanthara wrote on Instagram

New Delhi | August 21, 2024 09:30 AM IST

Nayanthara on her diet (Source: Nayanthara/Instagram)

Annapoorani actor Nayanthara is not only admired for her acting skills but also for her youthful appearance. Finally spilling the beans, the south superstar said how “embracing nourishment” has made a huge difference.

“I’m sharing this now because it’s never too late to share love and knowledge. If I have benefited from this, I wish the same for everyone else. A good diet is essential for a healthy and happy life, especially for someone like me, an actor who needs to look their best for every role. For me, staying in shape has always been about balance, consistency, and listening to my body. I used to think a ‘diet’ meant restricting myself and eating things I didn’t enjoy,” Nayanthara, who is married to filmmaker Vignesh Sivan, wrote on Instagram.

She added, “Now, I know it’s not about counting calories; it’s about counting nutrients and eating a variety of foods in the right amounts. This is a lifestyle, not a temporary fix.”

Further stating that she now enjoys “homemade food that is both nutritious and delicious”, she wrote: “I eat with pleasure and without guilt, no longer craving junk food. This has changed how I view food, making me feel nourished, energetic, and genuinely happy.”

She also believes what one eats significantly impacts their overall well-being. “By sharing my journey, I hope to inspire you to adopt a healthier lifestyle. And to help you, in the coming few weeks I will be sharing what keeps me going through my hectic days. Let’s focus on the joy and nourishment that comes from eating well and maintaining a positive relationship with food because ‘What you put on your plate is what you put into your life’,” Nayanthara continued.

Commenting on the post, the actor’s nutritionist Munmun Ganeriwal — who has been working with the actor since 2020 while she was working on Shah Rukh Khan-starrer Jawan — wrote: “It’s such a pleasure to know and work with someone like you. You have put down your journey so beautifully.. QUEEN for a reason @nayanthara”.

Why having a balanced diet is crucial? (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

But why is a balanced diet important?

Shruti K Bhardwaj, chief dietician at Zydus Hospitals, Ahmedabad said that consuming a basic, balanced diet plays a pivotal role. “It provides the essential nutrients our body needs to function optimally. These include carbohydrates for energy, proteins for muscle repair and growth, fats for various bodily functions, vitamins for immune support, and minerals for maintaining proper physiological processes,” said Bhardwaj.

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According to the dietitian, a well-balanced meal also helps regulate body weight, reducing the risk of obesity and related health issues. It also supports cardiovascular health by managing cholesterol levels and blood pressure. The inclusion of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains provides fibre, aiding digestion and preventing constipation,” said Bhardwaj.

A balanced diet also contributes to mental well-being. Nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and nuts, are associated with cognitive function and mood regulation. Adequate hydration, often overlooked, is crucial for various bodily functions, including metabolism and toxin elimination.

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