Tamannaah Bhatia’s Trainer Calls Besan Cheela ‘Worst Breakfast’ - Shares High-Protein Upgrade Hacks

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bold statement by Siddhartha Singh, coach to Tamannaah Bhatia, has sparked a fresh nutrition debate online. In a viral Instagram video, Singh called besan cheela the “worst vegetarian breakfast” - but quickly clarified that it’s not unhealthy, just nutritionally incomplete when eaten alone.

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A post shared by Siddhartha Singh (@officialsiddharthasingh)

So, is your favourite Indian breakfast really lacking? And how can you upgrade it into a high-protein, balanced meal? Here’s what you need to know.

Why may besan chilla fall short?

Besan (gram flour) is often praised for being gluten-free, rich in fiber, and containing some protein. However, Singh points out a key issue: “It has a little bit of protein, not a lot.” In its traditional form, besan cheela can be low in total protein needed for sustained energy, often cooked with excess oil, increasing calories, and lacking a balanced macronutrient profile, which includes protein, fats, and carbs. This means you may feel hungry again soon after eating, leading to cravings and reduced productivity.Also read: Liver Doctor Slams Brahmi Benefits: “Where Is the Clinical Proof?” Debate on Ayurveda vs Modern Medicine Grows

Expert hacks to make besan cheela high protein

Instead of ditching this classic dish, Singh recommends simple tweaks to turn it into a protein-packed breakfast:

Cut down the oil

Excess oil can turn a healthy meal calorie-dense. Cook your cheela with minimal oil or use a non-stick pan for a lighter version.

Add Greek yogurt for a protein boost

Pair your cheela with 100–200 grams of Greek yogurt. This adds high-quality protein and probiotics, improving digestion and satiety.

Add protein powder

For fitness enthusiasts, mixing a scoop of protein powder into the batter can significantly increase protein content, making it a complete, muscle-friendly meal.

Why protein-rich breakfast matters

Singh emphasizes that these changes are not just for fitness goals but also for better focus and productivity throughout the day. Starting your day with a high-protein breakfast offers multiple benefits:

• Keeps you full for longer for better satiety
• Reduces mid-morning cravings
• Supports muscle repair and metabolism
• Helps maintain stable blood sugar levels

Despite the viral statement, Singh clarified: “Besan cheela isn’t a bad breakfast, it’s just incomplete on its own.” This distinction is important. Traditional foods like cheela can absolutely be part of a healthy diet - but modern nutrition goals often require small upgrades. To further enhance your besan cheela, consider adding finely chopped vegetables like spinach, onions, capsicum, or grated carrots to the batter. These boost fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants without adding many calories. You can also sprinkle seeds like flaxseeds or chia for healthy fats and added satiety. Pairing your meal with a fruit or a glass of buttermilk can round out a well-balanced, nutrient-dense breakfast. Besan cheela remains a nutritious, vegetarian-friendly breakfast, but it may not provide enough protein on its own. With a few smart additions like Greek yogurt, reduced oil, and optional protein powder, you can transform it into a balanced, high-protein meal that keeps you energized, full, and focused. So, the next time you make cheela, do not skip the upgrades - your body and productivity will thank you.