‘I feel lighter’: Tamil actor Silambarasan quits biryani, switches to vegetarian diet

Tamil actor Silambarasan, also known as Arasan, has announced that he has stopped eating biryani and has adopted a vegetarian diet. The 43-year-old actor revealed in an interview with Tamil-language newspaper Dinamani that after attaining a certain age, the body does not remain the same regardless of the food consumed. He explained that when he consumes non-vegetarian food, he feels heavy and bloated, whereas a vegetarian meal leaves him feeling lighter.

Silambarasan noted that one cannot continue eating whatever one likes indefinitely and must eventually adopt a more disciplined approach to their diet. He encouraged viewers to reflect on what they put on their plates. Dt Amreen Sheikh, chief dietitian at KIMS Hospitals in Thane, commented on how the body generally adapts well to a planned dietary transition.

She pointed out that while biryani is rich in protein, iron, and vitamin B12, these nutrients do not automatically become available on a vegetarian diet. Sheikh emphasized the importance of incorporating lentils, dairy, nuts, seeds, and fortified foods to ensure adequate nutrition when switching to a vegetarian lifestyle. Initially, energy levels might fluctuate, but people typically stabilize within a few weeks, according to Sheikh.

However, Sheikh clarified that a vegetarian diet is not inherently healthier than a non-vegetarian one. The health benefits depend on the specific food choices. She cautioned that diets high in refined carbohydrates, fried foods, and sugars can be found in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals. A well-structured vegetarian diet rich in whole grains, pulses, vegetables, fruits, and healthy fats can support heart health, improve digestion, and aid in weight management.

A common mistake when transitioning is substituting meat with only carbohydrates or ignoring essential proteins and micronutrients like B12, iron, and omega-3 fats, which require careful planning in the diet. Sheikh stressed the need for consistency and balance in one's dietary choices for long-term success.