When it comes to losing weight and reaching our fitness goals, we leave no stone unturned. Looks like Hrithik Roshan also ensures the same, as revealed by Rohit Bose Roy. On his podcast, Unstoppable, while speaking about the role nutrition and diet play in helping meet one’s fitness goals, the host revealed that the Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara star weighs his food every single time. “When I was shooting for a film with Hrithik, I saw that his food is weighed in exact quantities — protein, carbs, and fats,” Roy told Sharman Joshi.
Fat, protein, and carbohydrates are the building blocks of nutrition, each playing a unique role in our bodies. “Fat provides essential fatty acids and aids in nutrient absorption. Protein is vital for muscle repair and growth, while carbohydrates fuel our energy levels,” said Eshanka Wahi, a culinary nutritionist, holistic wellness coach, and the founder of eat clean with Eshanka.
But, do experts give a green light to this practice?
Yes, measuring your food in terms of fat, protein, and carbohydrates can be an effective strategy to achieve fitness goals, said Shruti K Bhardwaj, chief dietician at Zydus Hospital, Ahmedabad.
Agreeing, Dr HP Bharathi, deputy chief medical officer, Jindal Naturecure Institute said that tracking food intake might help you reach your fitness objectives. “You can precisely manage how many calories you eat and how well your nutrients are balanced by measuring your fat, protein, and carbs consumption. By using this technique, you can make sure you’re satisfying your body’s demands without going over or underboard with your portion sizes.”
Measuring meals helps those who want to lose weight by creating a calorie deficit, which is necessary for fat reduction. “On the other hand, those who want to put on muscle may ensure they’re getting enough calories and protein in their diet. Additionally, monitoring your macros might reveal patterns in your eating behaviors, enabling you to make changes for improved outcomes,” shared Dr Bharathi.
Dr Bhardwaj explained the process in detail:
Precision: Tracking your macronutrient intake allows for precise control over your diet. “By knowing exactly how much fat, protein, and carbs you’re consuming, you can tailor your intake to match your specific fitness objectives, whether it’s weight loss, muscle gain, or maintenance,” said Bhardwaj.
Balanced nutrition: Focusing on macronutrients ensures a well-rounded diet. Each macronutrient plays a crucial role in supporting various bodily functions. “Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, fat is important for hormone regulation and cell structure, and carbs provide energy for daily activities and exercise,” elucidated Bhardwaj.
Optimised performance: Proper macronutrient balance can enhance athletic performance. “Athletes often manipulate their macronutrient intake to fuel workouts, promote recovery, and optimize body composition. For example, consuming more carbs before exercise can improve endurance, while adequate protein intake supports muscle repair and growth,” said Bhardwaj.
Awareness: Tracking macronutrients increases awareness of food choices and portion sizes. It encourages mindful eating and helps identify patterns or habits hindering progress toward fitness goals. “This awareness can lead to better decision-making and long-term dietary adherence,” said Bhardwaj.
Flexibility: Measuring macronutrients allows for flexibility in food selection. Instead of following restrictive diets, individuals can enjoy a variety of foods while still meeting their nutritional needs. This flexibility can make dieting more sustainable and enjoyable, Bhardwaj added.
Personalisation: Everyone’s nutritional needs differ based on age, weight, activity level, and goals. Measuring macronutrients enables personalised nutrition plans tailored to individual requirements, ensuring optimal results, added Bhardwaj.
Though there are many advantages to measuring meals, it’s important to keep a balanced approach. “Anxiety surrounding food or unhealthy eating habits might result from compulsive monitoring. It’s critical to think of measures as guidelines rather than rigid regulations. Speaking with a nutritionist can help you through this process with tailored advice and assistance, ensuring that your strategy fits your unique requirements and preferences,” said Bhardwaj.
By focusing on macronutrient balance, practicing portion control, and adopting mindful eating habits, you can take control of your nutrition and pave the way for a healthier, happier you, added Wahi.