Want to lose weight? Parul has a secret TIP

The actor reveals her favourite workouts and the simple secrets that help keep her in shape.

Parul Yadav was diagnosed with PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) when she was 16.

The medical condition influenced the actor to eat right and work on her fitness right from a young age.

In a conversation with Divya Nair/Rediff.com, Parul reveals how she works out five days a week, her diet secrets and more.

Have you always been so fit?

I guess you could say that.. we were a dozen or so cousins and siblings and we were a wild bunch and really active.

At the age of 16 I was diagnosed with PCOD and that really forced me to literally weigh everything I eat.

It's been a bit of a struggle. Even a minor let up can have a rather dramatic impact on my weight!

I was put on OCPs (oral contraceptive pills) and that really makes it difficult to watch your weight. So discipline and consistency is key.

How many hours do you work out in a day?

I walk for 40 minutes, do Pilates or weight train for an hour and dance for an hour and a half, 5 days a week.

What is your favourite workout routine?

I love lifting weights.

What is your daily diet like?

I eat everything, in moderation.

I guess you could call it a balanced diet.

In my experience, proportion is the essence of a healthy eating plan -- all food groups are essential, none more than any other.

What do you avoid eating?

I stay away from fried food and I plan my desserts carefully.

Your favourite pre and post workout meal

I drink a glass of green juice before I work out -- kale, spinach, celery, gooseberries and cucumber.

I eat my lunch right after I work out. It's a smart way of cutting out a meal and the workout helps digest my lunch!

Your cheat day meal

Cheat days are when I allow myself a dessert. Or a glass of a nice red wine!!

But never more than once a fortnight.

Your most comfortable workout gear/style.

I buy a lot of cool workout gear but I love my well worn tights!

Have you gained/lost weight during the lockdown?

I lost over 4 kg during the lockdown and it became obvious that restaurant food directly contributes to weight gain.

This is something everyone should really take on board.

Nothing beats ghar-ka-khana, especially if you are trying to lose weight.

How do you motivate yourself each day?

I have multiple alarms on my phone telling me to walk or workout. Plus I keep seeing old photos of mine to keep myself motivated.

How do you unwind?

I watch a lot of documentaries or history series.

I plonk myself on my couch watching them while eating. That's my stress buster.

And I love Bigg Boss!!

One common mistake you think people make when it comes to working out at home.

Wrong form and not warming up and cooling down.

Also people don't realise that they can do a lot of body weight training at home.

Your fitness tips/suggestions for readers.

Don't give up. There is no quick fix and there is no easy way.

Consistency is the only way. Every meal is important.

Every workout is important. There is no short cut. Sorry!!