Madhavan wrote: “Intermittent fasting, chewing food thoroughly 45-60 times (drinking food & chewing water)… last meal at 6:45 pm (only cooked food, nothing raw AT ALL after 3 pm)… long walks early in the morning & deep sleep early in the evening (no screens 90 mins before bed)… lots of fluids… lots of veggies & foods that are easily metabolized by the body & are healthy. Nothing processed at all. ALL THE BEST. 👍👍👍”

While many fans applauded Madhavan’s results, some expressed concerns about the potential health risks associated with intermittent fasting, particularly if not followed with proper guidance.

Screenshot of R MAdhavan’s post on X.

Dr Suhani Seth Agarwal, head of the dietetics department at Yatharth Superspeciality Hospital in Noida, acknowledges that long-term unsupervised intermittent fasting can lead to nutrient deficiencies, muscle loss and metabolic slowdown, and stresses the importance of a holistic approach to weight loss.

Agarwal broke down the key components of Madhavan’s weight loss approach:

Intermittent fasting: This method of structured feeding cycles played a role in Madhavan’s weight loss strategy, as confirmed by Dr. Agarwal. Intermittent fasting can promote weight loss by lowering insulin levels and facilitating fat burning. This approach not only helps reduce calorie intake but also potentially improves metabolic efficiency.

Conscious eatingHe stressed the importance of chewing well (45-60 times per bite!) and encouraged fans to “drink their food and chew their water” to improve digestion and potentially reduce calorie intake. Dr Agarwal agrees, saying that chewing properly helps break down nutrients, promotes satiety and helps prevent overeating.

Early dining window: Madhavan restricted his daily food intake to a specific period, consuming his last meal at 6:45 p.m. This practice is consistent with some intermittent fasting protocols.

Clean eating: Processed foods were strictly banned and replaced by healthy, easy-to-metabolize options.

Hydration and sleep: Madhavan stressed the importance of staying well hydrated and prioritizing quality sleep without spending time in front of a screen before bed. These habits promote overall health and can help with weight management.

Green power: Madhavan’s diet incorporated plenty of green vegetables, known for their nutritional benefits and potential to promote satiety.

Combining these practices can be effective, but they must be implemented alongside a balanced diet and regular physical activity for sustainable results and overall well-being. It is highly recommended to consult a health professional before making major dietary changes, especially those such as intermittent fasting.