Sheizaan Khan goes vegetarian: 'You can build muscle without chicken or eggs'
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Actor Sheizaan Khan, best known for playing Siddhu in the Zee TV show 'Ganga Mai Ki Betiyan', has publicly revealed for the first time that he switched to a vegetarian diet approximately six months ago — a significant lifestyle shift he says has upended his earlier assumptions about muscle maintenance.
The Dietary Switch
Khan described the transition as a major personal milestone, noting that he had long believed non-vegetarian protein sources were essential for preserving muscle mass. 'I recently became a vegetarian, which was a big personal shift for me. Earlier, I believed that if I didn't eat chicken or eggs, I wouldn't be able to maintain my muscle mass. But I've proved that belief wrong for myself,' he said.
The actor confirmed this is the first time he has spoken about the change publicly. 'It's been about six months since I turned vegetarian, and I think this is the first time I'm sharing it publicly. So yes, it's a pretty big milestone for me,' he added.
How He Manages Nutrition on a Demanding Shoot Schedule
With the physical demands of a daily television shoot, Khan said he is deliberate about nutrition. His current diet prioritises fibre and protein, with paneer serving as a primary protein source alongside protein shakes to meet daily requirements. 'On a shoot, I expend a lot of energy, so I always focus on preserving it through the right nutrition. Since I've become a vegetarian, I make sure my diet is rich in fibre and protein. Paneer is one of my go-to protein sources, and of course, protein shakes help me meet my daily requirements,' he explained.
A Passion for Cooking, Rarely Indulged
Beyond following a structured diet, Khan revealed he enjoys preparing his own food and has even cooked for co-stars on set. However, the hectic pace of television production leaves little room for the hobby. 'I also love cooking. Whenever I get the time, I enjoy cooking, and I've even cooked for my co-stars. The only challenge is that our schedules are so hectic that finding time to cook isn't always easy,' he said.
The Broader Message on Vegetarian Fitness
Khan's experience adds a personal dimension to a growing conversation in Indian fitness circles about plant-based diets and athletic performance. His account challenges the widespread belief — particularly among young men — that muscle building requires animal protein. Notably, his shift comes at a time when several Indian celebrities have publicly embraced plant-forward eating, lending the trend further mainstream visibility. 'Ganga Mai Ki Betiyan' airs on Zee TV.