Jacqueline Fernandez on how turning vegetarian transformed her skin and body: ‘My weight stopped yo-yoing…’

Jacqueline’s experience touches on something many people wonder about — how dietary shifts like going vegetarian or vegan affect skin health, metabolism, and weight regulation. 

But can switching to a vegetarian diet truly help improve skin health and reduce acne?

Ashlesha Joshi, fitness dietician and nutritionist at Tone 30 Pilates, tells indianexpress.com, “A well-balanced vegetarian diet can indeed contribute to clearer skin, primarily because it’s rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fibre that support gut health and hormonal balance. However, it’s important to understand that diet is only one part of the larger picture.” 

She adds that acne can be influenced by several factors, such as stress, hormonal fluctuations, sleep quality, and skincare habits. “When someone transitions to a vegetarian lifestyle, they often end up eating more whole foods, hydrating better, and cutting down on processed items, refined sugars, and excess dairy, all of which can reduce inflammation and improve skin clarity over time.”

Bloating or weight fluctuations while transitioning to a plant-based diet: what causes these effects, and how to manage them effectively

Bloating and temporary weight fluctuations are quite common when someone switches to a plant-based diet. The body suddenly receives more fibre than it’s used to, which can lead to increased gas and water retention as the gut microbiome adjusts. 

“The key is to make the transition gradual, introduce legumes, lentils, and cruciferous vegetables in smaller portions initially and drink plenty of water. Including probiotics and fermented foods such as curd, kefir, or sauerkraut can also help the gut adapt more quickly. Over time, as digestion improves, these symptoms usually subside and the body stabilises to a healthier rhythm,” states Joshi. 

Most effective plant-based protein sources and combinations to ensure complete nutrition

It’s absolutely possible to meet protein needs on a vegetarian diet with the right food combinations, states Joshi. “Lentils, beans, chickpeas, tofu, tempeh, paneer, and dairy products are excellent sources of protein.”

“To ensure complete amino acid profiles, pairing cereals and pulses, such as rice with dal or whole wheat with chickpeas, works very effectively. Nuts, seeds, and quinoa are also valuable additions to boost daily intake. The focus should be on diversity and portion consistency rather than fixating on a single protein source. With a bit of planning, a vegetarian diet can easily support muscle maintenance, energy levels, and overall metabolic health,” concludes the expert. 

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.