In the high-pressure world of professional sports, every choice an athlete makes – from training routines to dietary habits – can significantly impact their performance. Renowned Indian cricketer Virat Kohli knows this all too well – his disciplined approach to fitness and diet has been a core factor in his success, keeping him in top form even as he turned 36 this November.
Kohli currently holds the record for having achieved the most centuries – which is a score of 100 or more runs by a batter during a single innings – in the One Day International (ODI) format of cricket, and is still fresh off of the win under India’s team in the 2024 Twenty20 (T20) World Cup.
He also happens to be very open about his nutritional choices. This gives us the opportunity to delve into how this exalted batsman’s meticulously curated diet plan fuels his relentless drive for athletic excellence.
Virat Kohli’s Shift to a Vegetarian Diet
Kohli became vegetarian in 2018 following health problems he had been experiencing then. This change has not only improved his overall wellbeing, it has also pushed him to greater heights in his cricketing career. However, his nutritional journey hasn’t always gone smoothly.
“The basic challenge that I felt in terms of fitness is food. You can go to the gym and work hard… But with food, it is very different. You have taste buds, and it’s linked to your own mind wanting something and not wanting something,” Kohli admits during an interview with Star Sports.
His diet has often evolved over the years in his efforts to find the right balance in terms of vitamins, hydration, protein, and other fitness factors. But when he has a nutritional strategy set for himself, he sticks to it.
“I can eat the same thing for the next six months, three times a day. I have no issues,” he states.
The Dietary Regimen of a Legendary Cricketer
In general, Kohli eats mostly rice dishes, wholegrains like quinoa, and lentils, from which he can attain the energy, fibre and nutrients he needs. He also enriches his diet with a variety of vegetables, ensuring he receives an array of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
Soy products, grilled vegetables and soups are typically featured in his lunch and dinner plans. He also enjoys nut butter and gluten-free bread, and fresh seasonal fruits. When it comes to drinks, he drinks coffee, and is a fan of green tea with a bit of lemon, drinking 3 to 4 cups daily.
Steamed and boiled foods have also become dietary mainstays.
“90 per cent of my food is all steamed, boiled,” he reveals. “No masala. Only salt, pepper, and lime; that’s how I eat.”
Foods that he keeps far from his plate include curries, liberally spiced dishes, and fried foods, which are largely considered to be heavy, unhealthy meals. He has reduced his dairy consumption since going vegetarian, and also stopped eating added sugar.
Ensuring Balanced Nutrition as a Vegetarian Athlete
One of the primary concerns for vegetarian athletes is ensuring adequate protein intake.
Kohli addresses this by incorporating protein-rich plant-based foods like tofu, lentils, quinoa, and nut butter. These foods provide essential amino acids crucial for muscle repair and recovery.
Vitamin B12 is a common nutrient deficiency for people adopting plant-based diets, since it is primarily found in animal-based foods. Vitamin B12 can still be found in eggs and dairy products. Other sources of Vitamin B12 include fortified foods and supplements.
For those looking to pursue a plant-based diet, it is important to be aware of potential nutrient gaps and consult with a healthcare professional to ensure balanced nutrition.
Try Virat Kohli’s Diet
These dietary choices reflect Kohli’s personal preferences and fitness goals. Nutritional needs can vary greatly among individuals, be sure to consult a qualified dietitian or healthcare professional before making significant long-term changes to your diet.
Breakfast
Start the day with a nutrient-packed breakfast of fresh fruits and nuts. For fruits, try watermelon, pineapple, papaya, apple, berries, kiwi, or other fruits in season.
Main Meals (Lunch, Dinner)
Load your lunch plate with quinoa, with lentils or tofu for protein. Include grilled vegetables and a bowl of vegetable soup for additional vitamins, minerals, and fibre.
Snacks
If you feel peckish throughout the day, enjoy healthy snacks such as nuts and fruits. Try a piece of bread with some nut butter spread for carbohydrates and some healthy fats as a mid-day boost.
Is Plant-Based For Me?
Virat Kohli’s disciplined approach to his vegetarian diet demonstrates how a nutrient-dense, plant-based diet can not only enhance athletic performance but also promote better overall health, making him a role model for aspiring plant-based athletes worldwide.
It is important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition. What works for Kohli may not be suitable for everyone, as individual dietary needs and health status can vary.
For anyone considering a plant-based diet, consult with a registered dietitian or healthcare professional to ensure it meets your specific health goals and provides balanced nutrition for your goals.
To explore another elite sportsman’s dietary strategy, read this: Carlos Yulo’s Olympic Diet: The Nutritional Secrets Behind His Success
Cover image: Courtesy of Cricket.one