Ridhi Dogra’s 16-Hour Fast, Khichdi, and Smoothie: Is It Really Healthy Long-Term?

It is well known that celebrities are subject to various kinds of diets that help them remain slim and radiant. Between intermittent fasting and plant-based meals, these practices have become the trend among followers. Actress Ridhi Dogra, who recently shared her choice of diet, has also made the list. She revealed her routine in a podcast with comedian Bharti Singh, where she spoke about fasting for 16 hours, eating khichdi, and sipping on smoothies. But the real question is, can such a plan be healthy in the long run? To get some clarity, we reached out to nutritionist Rakshita Mehra to explain.

Ridhi Dogra’s Diet Plan

Ridhi revealed her simple diet plan during a candid podcast conversation with comedian Bharti Singh. She explained that she breaks her fast at noon with a smoothie that she loves, describing it as “like a dessert.” The following is what she adheres to in her diet.

• Mango, papaya, or strawberry are lightly thickened fruits used in her smoothie. It contains coffee-flavoured whey protein, peanut butter, and unsweetened cacao powder.
• She also adds muesli and pomegranates on top of it and blueberries to get the skin's benefits.
• The second meal of Ridhi, which she had at around 8 pm, is a home-cooked moong dal khichdi, cooked using ghee as a source of taste and nourishment.
• This routine, which is fixed, enables her to indulge occasionally in eating other foods with no guilt.
• Speaking of intermittent fasting, Ridhi stated that the 16-hour window of fasting allows her to feel energised and stay in balance without restraining dieting habits.
• Ridhi also emphasised her use of healthy oils such as ghee and cold-pressed oils more than refined oils.

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Is This Diet Really Healthy Long-Term? 

Rakshita Mehra, a nutritionist, says Ridhi’s diet is well-balanced but adds that one has to be varied. Khichdi and smoothies are healthy; however, eating them on a long-term basis may lead to nutrient deficiencies, she says. 

• Rakshita advises that a sustainable diet should include diverse proteins, healthy fats, and micronutrients essential for overall health.
• She also warns against the oversimplification of “light” and “clean” eating. “Feeling light doesn’t always mean you’re healthy. 
• Excessive simplification can lead to fatigue, hormonal imbalances, or slower metabolism, especially for active people,” Rakshita adds.

Short-term, Ridhi’s diet is fine and can aid in detox or weight management. But for long-term health, it’s essential to add variety and ensure adequate calorie intake to support body functions. Otherwise, it may lack enough protein, calories, or essential fats, potentially affecting energy and well-being.

Balancing Convenience with Health

One reason Ridhi’s diet works for her is the simplicity and convenience. It fits her lifestyle and keeps her energised for her busy days. The smoothie’s protein and antioxidant-rich fruit toppings do contribute valuable nutrients, while the khichdi provides a comforting, balanced meal with carbs and protein.

However, health experts recommend supplementing such simple diets with varied vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and occasional treats to meet all nutritional needs. Listening to your body and adjusting according to activity levels, age, and health conditions is crucial.

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Conclusion

Ridhi Dogra’s 16-hour fasting along with khichdi and protein smoothie meals is a simple, balanced approach that works as a short-term routine. But experts agree that long-term health requires variety and adequate intake of all nutrient groups. While her fixed diet offers benefits like convenience and steady energy, it’s important to include diverse foods and listen to your body for sustainable wellness.