Sonu Sood, who is all set for his directorial debut with his movie, ‘Fateh’ has been a hardcore vegetarian. The renowned Bollywood actor and philanthropist has made headlines not just for his acting prowess but also for his commitment to a healthy lifestyle. In an interview, the 51-year-old actor revealed that he follows a very ‘boring diet’ and stopped eating chapatis.
Describing his daily eating routine, the actor stated, “Whenever guests visit, they often comment that my meals resemble hospital food.” However, it is often assumed what effect a vegetarian diet has on the gut and regarding the same, we reached out to Ashita Gupta, Clinical Dietician, from Apollo Clinic and Lucknow Cancer Institute, Lucknow.
Sonu Sood All Vegetarian Diet Plan
Sonu Sood maintains a disciplined vegetarian diet, focusing on healthy choices. For lunch, he typically enjoys a small bowl of dal and rice. Breakfast consists of an egg-white omelette, accompanied by salad, avocado, sautéed vegetables, or papaya. Although he occasionally indulges in makki ki roti, it's a rare treat.
The ‘Fateh’ actor emphasises the importance of consistency in his eating habits, stating, “I eat healthy; I don’t cheat on my diet.” His commitment to nutrition reflects his dedication to maintaining a fit and healthy lifestyle, which he considers essential for overall well-being.
How Does a Vegetarian Diet Impact Your Gut Health?
Adopting a vegetarian diet can have profound effects on gut health, primarily by enhancing the diversity and composition of the gut microbiome. According to Ashita Gupta, Clinical Dietician at Apollo Clinic and Lucknow Cancer Institute, a well-planned vegetarian diet rich in whole, plant-based foods fosters a healthy and diverse gut microbiome. It is essential for overall health and well-being. A balanced microbiome enhances nutrient absorption, digestion, and immune function.
Benefits of a Vegetarian Diet for Gut Health
- High in Fiber: Foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds are abundant in dietary fibre, acting as prebiotics that nourish beneficial gut bacteria.
- Promotes Gut Flora: A plant-based diet encourages a variety of bacteria, leading to a diverse microbiome crucial for overall health.
- Reduces Inflammation: Vegetarian diets are rich in antioxidants and low in inflammatory compounds (such as saturated fats), which helps decrease gut inflammation.
- Limits Harmful Bacteria: Reduced consumption of red meat and processed foods lowers the presence of harmful bacteria linked to inflammation and diseases.
- Improves Mental Health: A healthy gut positively influences the gut-brain axis, enhancing mood and reducing stress.
According to a study published on PubMed, increased vegetable consumption leads to higher levels of beneficial bacteria, such as Bacteroidetes. It promotes the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which are essential for gut health and immune function. The study highlights that individuals on a vegetarian or vegan diet experienced improvements in gastrointestinal symptoms and a reduction in inflammation-related markers.
Key Foods for Gut Health in a Vegetarian Diet
To support optimal gut health, our expert Ashita Gupta recommends incorporating a variety of nutrient-dense foods into your vegetarian diet. Here are some essential items to consider.
- Fruits and Vegetables: Apples, bananas, berries, spinach, broccoli, and carrots.
- Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, and beans.
- Whole Grains: Oats, quinoa, and barley.
- Fermented Foods: Yogurt, kimchi, idli, etc.
- Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts.
Takeaway
Adopting a vegetarian diet offers significant benefits for gut health by promoting a diverse and balanced microbiome. As highlighted by the expert Ashita Gupta, a well-planned vegetarian diet rich in whole, plant-based foods not only enhances nutrient absorption and digestion but also supports immune function and reduces inflammation. These dietary choices contribute to overall well-being, making vegetarianism a powerful ally in maintaining digestive health and improving quality of life.