Indian actress Devoleena Bhattacharjee is taking a break from her busy TV schedule to enjoy some time in the pool. "Pretty sure I was a mermaid in my past life"🧜🏽♀️, she captioned a picture of herself wearing a red and white striped swimsuit. How does she stay so fit? Read on to see 5 ways Bhattacharjee stays in shape and the photos that prove they work—and to get beach-ready yourself, don't miss these essential 30 Best-Ever Celebrity Bathing Suit Photos!
1. She Lifts Weights
Bhattacharjee is passionate about weight training, and credits the exercise for both her physical and mental health. “You will function at a much higher level, for longer, if you have good muscle strength,” says Dr. Bruce Moseley, an orthopedic surgeon at Baylor College of Medicine. “Keep it at a light and easy level at first. Once your body starts getting adjusted, then you can start increasing.”
2. She Enjoys Oats
Bhattacharjee loves steamed oatcakes for breakfast. “Eating oatmeal regularly can have weight management benefits as a half-cup of rolled oats cooked in a cup of water has 165 calories, 4 grams of fiber and 6 grams of protein,” says Romi Londre, RDN. “The fiber and protein content contribute to feeling full longer and a slower blood glucose release. Oats also are an excellent source of many vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, copper, thiamine and zinc.”
3. She Walks After Her Meals
Bhattacharjee likes to take a brisk walk after her meals, a habit which can be useful for managing blood sugar, experts say. “Your muscles will soak up some of that excess glucose,” says Jessie Inchauspé, author of the book Glucose Revolution: The Life-Changing Power of Balancing Your Blood Sugar. “You still had the same meal, but the impact on your body will be lessened.”
4. She Loves To Eat Fish
Bhattacharjee enjoys fish and tries to incorporate it into several meals throughout the week. Good quality fish is a staple part of a heart-healthy diet, experts say. “Lean meat, poultry and fish, low-fat dairy products and eggs are some of your best sources of protein,” says cardiologist Brodie Marthaler, MD. “Certain types of fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can lower blood fats called triglycerides. Finally, legumes, like beans, peas and lentils, also are good sources of protein, and contain less fat and no cholesterol, making them good substitutes for meat. Incorporate these foods into your diet, and you'll find that heart-healthy eating is both doable and enjoyable. With planning and a few simple substitutions, you can eat with your heart in mind.”
5. No Food Right Before Bed
Bhattacharjee tries to leave two to three hours before her last meal and bedtime. Depending on what time she eats breakfast, having an early dinner could be a form of intermittent fasting. “Recent research has found that using intermittent fasting for weight loss may have some benefits in the short term,” says Londre. “It appears that fasting for a short time can produce ketosis, which is a process that occurs when the body doesn't have enough glucose for energy, so it breaks down stored fat instead. This causes an increase in substances called ketones. This, coupled with fewer calories consumed overall, can lead to weight loss. Research suggests that alternate-day fasting is about as effective as a typical low-calorie diet for weight loss.”