Ram Kapoor, who has made headlines with his massive weight loss transformation, recently detailed his diet while sitting down with Farah Khan for coffee on her cooking show. Looking at his big mug, Farah remarked, “Yeh cup thodi hai…yeh baalti hai”. Responding, Ram said, “Khaana 2 Baar Khaata Hun, Uske Alawa Chai, Coffee, Paani Allowed Hai (I eat twice a day. Apart from that, I am allowed to drink coffee, tea, and water).”
Taking a cue from his candid admission about his diet, we decided to understand this approach.
Kanikka Malhotra, consultant dietician and diabetes educatortold us that this approach is an example of intermittent fasting (IF), specifically a form of time-restricted feeding in which one consumes all their food within a defined window (e.g., first meal around 10:30–11:00 a.m., second meal around 6:30 p.m.) and fasts for the remaining hours.
“This method is backed by scientific research for its potential benefits in weight managementimproved metabolic health, and better insulin sensitivity, which is especially relevant for those with diabetes or prediabetes,” said Malhotra.
Are you fasting right? (Photo: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
From a dietary perspective, Malhotra said this pattern can help reduce overall calorie intake by minimising opportunities for mindless snacking and late-night eating, both of which are linked to weight gain and metabolic disturbances. “However, the key to its success lies in the quality and balance of the two meals. Each meal should be nutrient-dense, providing adequate protein, healthy fats, fibre, and micronutrients to support energy, muscle maintenance, and overall health,” said Malhotra.
What to note?
It’s essential to note that while this approach works well for some, it may not be suitable for everyone. Malhotra stressed that if not managed carefully, some individuals may experience excessive hunger, overeating during meal windows, or a slowed metabolism.
Story continues below this ad
“For those with specific health conditions, such as diabetesmonitoring blood sugar and consulting a healthcare provider is essential before adopting such a regimen. Consistency and mindset change are crucial for long-term sustainability,” Malhotra said.
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.