Consistency Over Quick Fixes
Rujuta Diwekar emphasizes that long-term fitness, like Karisma Kapoor's, isn't built overnight. It's the result of consistent effort starting years, or even decades, earlier. In a recent post, Diwekar noted that while people might point to one 'secret'
food like curd rice, the reality is the cumulative benefit of working on fitness since one's 30s. She advises that the 30s are a crucial decade for women's health. This is when bone mineral density peaks, but also when hormonal shifts can begin, potentially affecting metabolism and body composition. By focusing on regular exercise and sensible eating during this time, women can build a strong foundation for health in their 40s, 50s, and beyond.
Don't Fear Traditional Foods
One of the cornerstones of Diwekar's philosophy is to embrace traditional, home-cooked Indian food. She argues against the trend of eliminating entire food groups like carbohydrates or fats. In a past interview, Karisma Kapoor herself revealed she lost 25 kilos by eating fish curry and rice every night. This counters the popular myth that carbs at night lead to weight gain. Diwekar's advice consistently points back to the wisdom of our ancestors. Foods like rice, when paired with protein and vegetables, have a balanced glycemic impact and provide sustained energy. Similarly, traditional snacks like poha and upma, or fruits like bananas and chikoos, are encouraged as nutritious options that prevent feelings of deprivation.
Embrace Ghee, Don't Banish It
Ghee, or clarified butter, is another traditional food that has been wrongly vilified, according to Diwekar. She consistently advocates for including a teaspoon of ghee with meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Far from being a cause of high cholesterol, Diwekar explains that ghee is a source of essential healthy fats, including butyric acid, which supports gut health. It also helps the body absorb fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, and E, which are crucial for everything from joint health to glowing skin. The key is moderation. The amount of ghee should complement the food and enhance its flavour, not overpower it.
Eat Local and Seasonal
Diwekar's mantra to 'eat local, think global' is central to her advice. She encourages choosing fruits and vegetables that are in season and native to your region. These foods are not only fresher and more nutrient-dense but are also genetically compliant with our bodies. Our gut microbes, inherited from our mothers, are best equipped to digest the foods our ancestors ate. This approach moves the focus away from exotic 'superfoods' and toward the abundance available in local markets. Whether it's tadgola (ice apple) in the summer or various gourds during the monsoon, eating seasonally helps keep the body cool, aids digestion, and prevents issues like bloating and fatigue.
Focus on Fitness, Not Just Weight Loss
A significant part of the advice is shifting the goal from simple weight loss to overall fitness. Diwekar suggests that women in their 30s should focus on exercising for at least three hours per week rather than fixating on the weighing scale. This helps maximize bone mineral density and builds a sustainable fitness routine for life. Karisma Kapoor's own fitness regimen aligns with this, favouring consistency with yoga and walking over extreme gym workouts. The broader message is that health is about balance, mindful eating, and regular movement—not punishing routines or restrictive diets. By listening to your body and nourishing it with wholesome, traditional foods, you build lasting health that radiates from the inside out, which is a goal far more valuable than simply chasing a youthful appearance.
