Manushi Chhillar says she started eating meat for Bade Miyan Chote Miyan after years of being vegetarian

Bollywood actor Manushi Chhillar, a lifelong vegetarian, stepped outside her comfort zone and turned to meat for her latest film “Bade Miyan Chote Miyan.” In a recent interview, she revealed her initial hesitation and the surprising influence that led her to adopt a non-vegetarian diet.

Speaking to Zoom, Manushi said, “I have always been a vegetarian, my entire life actually, and one thing I told myself was that I would never be able to eat meat simply because I have never eaten meat in my life before. Then came Bade Miyan Chote Miyan… I was shooting for another film at that time and I got Covid. So, I was so scared because I didn’t want to lose weight as I needed to build muscle. My father, who is a doctor, suggested me to switch to meat.”

Her father, recognising the importance of protein intake for muscle building during recovery, encouraged Manushi to transition to a non-vegetarian diet. She said, “I asked him to make me something which won’t look like chicken. He used to sit on the table and watch me and forcefully make me finish my food.”

For those who’ve embraced a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle for years, the thought of introducing meat back into their diet can be daunting. But what exactly happens to your body when you make this switch as an adult? Let’s explore the impact on your gut health and overall well-being with insights from Kanika Narang, deputy manager and head of dept, Dietetics, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, Delhi.

The overall health impact of becoming a meat-eater later in life is a mixed bag. (Source: Freepik)

What happens when you become a meat-eater as an adult?

The cornerstone of digestion, your gut microbiome, is a complex ecosystem of bacteria and other microorganisms heavily influenced by diet. Switching from a plant-based diet to one including meat significantly alters this delicate balance. This can lead to digestive woes like bloating, gas, constipation, or diarrhea as your gut adjusts to processing animal proteins and fats, explained Narang

Why are some adults more susceptible to digestive troubles after embracing meat?

Narang explained that a lifelong vegetarian or vegan diet can lead to a decrease in the gut bacteria responsible for breaking down animal products. Additionally, potential food intolerances developed during your plant-based years can be exacerbated by the reintroduction of meat.

The overall health impact of becoming a meat-eater later in life is a mixed bag. Meat offers essential nutrients like protein, iron, and vitamin B12. However, excessive red and processed meat consumption has been linked to heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. The key lies in moderation and a balanced diet.

Making the switch smoothly: Tips for transitioning

If you’re considering incorporating meat after years of plant-based eating, Narang offered valuable advice:

Start Slow: Introduce small portions of meat gradually to allow your gut to adapt.

Fibre is Your Friend: Maintain a high intake of fibre-rich foods like vegetables and fruits to aid digestion.

Hydration is Key: Staying well-hydrated helps digestion function smoothly.

Probiotics and Enzymes: Consider using probiotic supplements or enzyme supplements to support digestion during the transition.

Seek Professional Guidance: If digestive issues persist, consult a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalised advice and potential dietary modifications or supplementation.

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