Dramatic weight loss stories often draw admiration, but the emotional and behavioral toll they take on individuals and families is rarely spoken about. Actor , from 140 kg to 85 kg in a year, has stirred conversation not just for the numbers, but also for what it took behind the scenes.
His wife, actor Gautami Kapoor, spoke about their family’s sacrifices during this period. “We have been in the midst of some crazy controversies this year. But let me tell you, it’s been really, really hard. It’s been a journey not just for Ram, but for all of us as a family. We stopped socialising, stopped going out, and stopped ordering food from outside — something we used to love,” she said in a chat with .
Gautami revealed that their daughter Sia lost 38 kilos before Ram began his intense weight loss plan, which included extreme measures like 24-hour and 48-hour fasts. “But what really pushed him was Sia. She started her weight loss journey before Ram, and I think that motivated him deeply,” she said. Their son also lost ten kilos during the same period. While acknowledging the collective motivation, she admitted, “My daughter warned me not to say anything. But they were almost starving themselves — Sia, Ram… they were determined.”
Dr Sapare Rohit, consultant psychiatrist at Maarga Mind Care, tells , “When an entire family undertakes lifestyle changes like weight loss, it can foster strong support and shared motivation. However, the challenge lies in ensuring these changes don’t compromise their or relationship with food. Food is not just fuel; it’s deeply tied to culture, emotion, and connection. Eliminating social outings or food-related rituals can unintentionally create a sense of isolation or even guilt around enjoyment.”
He adds that the key is balance. Families can intentionally introduce new food traditions that are both health-conscious and joyful, like cooking together, exploring healthier versions of favorite dishes, or designating certain days for mindful indulgence.
Ashlesha Joshi, senior nutritionist at Tone 30 Pilates, tells indianexpress.com, “While intermittent fasting can offer certain metabolic benefits when practiced in moderation and under guidance, extended fasts for the sake of rapid weight loss can lead to issues like electrolyte imbalance, fatigue, muscle loss, and a slowed metabolism.”
From a nutritional standpoint, she says, the body requires a to support brain function, hormonal balance, and energy levels. “Frequent extreme fasting can disrupt these processes and trigger binge-eating cycles, poor mood regulation, or even disordered eating patterns in the long run.”
What’s especially concerning is the social media-fueled pressure to achieve dramatic results in short periods. “Quick fixes rarely address the underlying habits that contribute to long-term health. Sustainable weight loss requires a more balanced approach that prioritises nourishment, consistency, and mental well-being over extremes,” Joshi asserts.
