Fitness icon and model Milind Soman has shared a remarkable personal health journey, detailing how a structured eating pattern significantly boosted his well-being. The actor, now 60, opened up about his experiment with intermittent fasting the previous year, which yielded impressive results.
The Experiment and The Results
In November, at the age of 59, Soman decided to trial the 16:8 method of intermittent fasting. This approach involves fasting for 16 hours a day and consuming all meals within an 8-hour window. His primary motivation was curiosity about how his body would respond.
The outcome was overwhelmingly positive. "I thought it felt fantastic. It really felt amazing," Soman recounted in an interview. The physical changes were notable; he shed between six and seven kilograms. Interestingly, he hadn't been aware that he had this weight to lose, as he always considered himself to be in perfect shape.
The benefits extended far beyond the number on the scale. He reported having more energy and feeling more alert throughout the day, describing the entire experience as "such a positive experience."
Why He Stopped and His Early Habits
His commitment to athletic training is what eventually led him to pause the fasting regimen. He discontinued the practice while preparing for a half-Ironman marathon, explaining that such endurance events require constant fueling, making the fasting schedule impractical. He has not resumed intermittent fasting since, as he is currently training for a full Ironman event.
Soman also reflected on his youth, revealing that he had organically followed a similar pattern until the age of 23. While actively representing India in swimming, he would sleep by 9 PM, naturally maintaining a 14-hour fast, complemented by a balanced diet at home.
Expert Weighs In: Benefits and Cautions
Consultant dietitian Garima Goyal provided a professional perspective on Soman's experience. She highlighted that structured habits, even adopted later in life, can yield significant benefits.
"From a nutrition point of view, early and consistent fasting windows can support better insulin sensitivity, improve digestive rest and help the body tap into fat stores," Goyal stated. She emphasized that these benefits are best realized when paired with good hydration, balanced meals, and regular physical activity.
Goyal also pointed out that Soman's success underscores the importance of maintaining adequate protein intake and recovery to ensure that weight loss does not lead to muscle loss.
However, the expert issued a crucial disclaimer. Intermittent fasting is not a universal solution. She cautioned that individuals with specific health conditions, including diabetes, thyroid issues, acidity, active lifestyles, hormonal concerns, or a history of disordered eating, may find fasting difficult or even counterproductive.
The success of this dietary approach hinges entirely on an individual's unique health status, activity level, and the nutritional quality of the food consumed during eating periods.
Ultimately, while Milind Soman's story is inspiring, it should be viewed as a single data point. As the expert concludes, it is "one example rather than a one-size-fits-all strategy." Anyone considering a significant change to their diet or fitness routine should always consult a healthcare practitioner first.
