The secret behind Karan Johar’s drastic weight loss
For years, Karan battled body image issues and said he felt uncomfortable in his own skin. Despite regular workouts, he felt stuck, confused by sudden weight gain, hair fall, and early greying of hair. While talking on Raj Shamani’s podcast, he addressed public speculation around weight loss drugs like Ozempic, clarifying with a laugh that if he had taken it, he’d have “monetised it.” Instead, he credits OMAD for helping him break free from that unhealthy cycle.
What is OMAD?
OMAD, or One Meal A Day, is a form of intermittent fasting where an individual eats just once in 24 hours. Karan explained that this approach was tough at first but ultimately helped him regain control of his health. The strict eating pattern not only contributed to weight loss but also helped him feel mentally stronger and more focused.
However, health experts urge caution. Dr. Pal Manickam, a U.S.-based gastroenterologist, shared insights on OMAD and said that while it can be effective, it’s not suitable for everyone. The biggest benefit of OMAD is that it simplifies eating, reduces calorie intake, and gives the digestive system time to rest. It may also improve blood sugar levels and promote better gut health.
But, as Dr. Manickam warns, OMAD requires serious discipline and may not be sustainable in the long run. For many, especially women, prolonged fasting can lead to hormonal imbalances. Some may experience irregular periods, fatigue, or even a slowdown in metabolism. The diet also poses the risk of missing out on essential nutrients like protein, vitamins, and minerals, which can be difficult to consume in just one meal.
“OMAD is not a magic solution,” Dr. Manickam says. “If followed without guidance, it can trigger stress responses in the body. Your hormones might say ‘kuch kuch hota hai,’ but your body may say ‘kal ho na ho’.”
In Karan’s case, the weight loss journey was as much about mental well-being as physical transformation. Yoga, discipline, and a mindful routine played key roles. His story serves as a reminder that weight loss should come from consistent, healthy lifestyle changes rather than quick fixes or viral diet trends.
For those considering OMAD, experts suggest speaking to a doctor or nutritionist first. What works for one person, even someone like Karan Johar, may not work for everyone, and that’s okay.