Karan Johar credits OMAD diet for his weight loss: What is it? Its benefits and risks

Karan Johar's OMAD, or One Meal a Day, diet plan is a type of intermittent fasting where the daily calorie intake is restricted to a one-hour eating window

Karan Johar has been in the limelight long enough for people to notice the drastic weight loss he has undergone over the past year. While many speculated it was due to drugs like Ozempic or Mounjaro, the director-producer has categorically denied all such claims and attributed his successful transformation to OMAD, i.e., One Meal a Day.

Speaking to Raj Shamani, Karan revealed that he followed a ‘one meal a day’ plan, eating only at 8 or 8:30 p.m., which he maintained for seven months. He said, “I went on something called OMAD, which stands for One Meal a Day. The first seven days were very difficult, but I did this for seven months. I ate one meal at 8 or 8:30 p.m.”

He further elaborated on his diet and added, “That meal was lactose-free, gluten-free, and sugar-free. I did this rigorously and relentlessly. Later, I continued the diet. I am mildly lactose intolerant, so I drink almond milk.”

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What is OMAD diet plan? Its benefits and risks

OMAD, or One Meal a Day, is a type of intermittent fasting where the daily calorie intake is restricted to a one-hour eating window. The remaining time is spent fasting, consuming only non-caloric beverages like water, black coffee, and herbal teas. This creates a calorie deficit, triggering weight loss. OMAD is also reportedly associated with faster fat loss, improved digestion, and better insulin sensitivity.

However, there are drawbacks. OMAD is reportedly not suitable for everyone and may lead to nutritional deficiencies and health complications in the long run. Consultation with a medical professional is advisable, especially for those with pre-existing health issues.

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Besides OMAD, here’s what Karan Johar is doing currently

The director-producer further revealed that he is now trying to gain some weight. Here are the changes he has introduced: “For the last one and a half months, I’ve felt that I need to put on some weight, so I’ve brought in lactose and a little bit of carbohydrates in the form of rice, but I still don’t consume gluten.”

He has also introduced workouts and sports into his routine, adding, “I have started doing weight training and I play paddle.”

Karan denies using Ozempic or Mounjaro

In the interview, Karan explicitly stated that he has refrained from using weight loss drugs. He said, “Now people ask me, ‘Are you on Mounjaro? Are you on Ozempic?’ I’m tired of these comments. People don’t know my truth.”

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He admitted that weight loss had long been a struggle and that he recently discovered a thyroid issue that required correction. He said, “It was only recently, after years, when I got my blood work done, that I found out I had certain thyroid issues and other problems that I needed to fix. I’ve been working on correcting them.”

But he is quite happy with where he is now. He added, “I know that I am very healthy. I’ve never felt lighter, never felt better. I’ve never, ever felt more confident in my own skin, and that gives me nothing but joy. After 52 years, I finally feel confident. Otherwise, I do suffer from body dysmorphia. It’s when you feel ashamed of your own body—when you feel awkward without clothes on. I go through that even now. I can’t even look at myself in the mirror.”