- Shilpa Shetty became aware of protein's importance early in her fitness journey
- She emphasises a balanced diet with protein, vitamins, fats, carbs, and hydration
- Her diet focus shifted from calorie restriction to understanding her body's needs
Shilpa Shetty is a fitness enthusiast who regularly advocates clean eating and motivates her fans with workout videos on Instagram. In a recent interview, the actor spoke about fitness, protein intake, and her idea of leisure.
Talking to The Indian Express, Shilpa revealed when she first became aware of the importance of protein.
What Shilpa Shetty Said
"I became conscious of protein fairly early in my fitness journey because I realised that exercise alone isn't enough. So today, protein is definitely a very crucial part of my diet. That said, I also want to emphasise that protein is only one piece of the puzzle. You need a balanced diet: adequate protein, calcium, vitamin D, good fats, carbohydrates, micronutrients and hydration, alongside strength training, cardio, mobility and recovery. My awareness of protein has definitely increased with age, but so has my understanding that nutrition and exercise have to work together."
She also spoke about how her diet has evolved over time.
"My diet has actually become less about restriction and more about understanding my body. Earlier, I was more focused on calories and what I should or shouldn't eat. Today, I think much more about nourishment."
"At home, I don't believe in imposing one diet on everyone. I try to introduce my family to wholesome food and good habits, but there has to be room for enjoyment too. My kids should be able to enjoy a pizza or dessert without feeling guilty. I want them to develop a healthy relationship with food rather than fear certain foods. And as for my husband, let's just say I've influenced him quite a bit!"
When asked which exercise she finds the most difficult, Shilpa said it is not a particular exercise but maintaining consistency.
"Honestly, the difficult part isn't a particular exercise. It's consistency. Showing up on the days when you don't feel like it is the real challenge.
I've tried some pretty demanding yoga asanas, strength-training movements, and inversions over the years. I love challenging my body, but I'm also much more conscious now about respecting its limitations. There are always new things I want to learn. For me, the bucket list isn't about doing something just because it looks impressive on Instagram. It's about asking myself, 'Can I become stronger, more mobile and more capable?' That's the challenge I enjoy."
She also shared how her day would look if she had 24 hours entirely to herself.
Shilpa said, "I would wake up later. I love my sleep, but now I wake up at 6.30 am for the kids. Next, I'd do a long yoga or workout session, have a leisurely breakfast, and then probably spend a ridiculous amount of time doing absolutely nothing. Or just working a lot more, because I'm a workaholic. I'd also travel much more and not think about coming back soon. I'd get more massages, watch more films and probably spend some time just sitting quietly."
"But knowing me, after a few hours, I'd start missing everyone. I love my alone time, but I'm also a people person at heart. So, 24 hours completely alone would probably become 12 hours of bliss and 12 hours of, 'Okay, where is everybody?'" added the actor.
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