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Neelam Kothari's diet and anti-ageing secrets for staying fit in 50s: ‘Cauliflower pizza instead of normal pizza’

Published on: Jul 31, 2026, 11:34:14 IST
In her mid-50s, Neelam Kothari is not interested in chasing perfection. She’s interested in what works for her skin, body and mind. (Instagram/ Neelam Kothari)
In her mid-50s, Neelam Kothari is not interested in chasing perfection. She’s interested in what works for her skin, body and mind. (Instagram/ Neelam Kothari)
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Actor and jewellery designer Neelam Kothari shared a glimpse into her protein-rich diet, functional training, and the supplements she actually takes.

In a candid July 30 YouTube video, actor-turned-jewellery designer Neelam Kothari gave fans exactly what they’ve been asking for: a day-in-the-life of how she stays fit, energised, and glowing. No filters. No fads. Just decades of experience, a professional nutritionist, and a trainer who knows when to push and when to pull back. Also read | Step inside Neelam Kothari's 30-year-old Victorian vacation bungalow in Lonavala where antique style meets vintage taste

“People keep asking what my workout is, what supplements I take, what I eat. So today I’m showing you," Neelam Kothari said.

Mornings: hydration and omelette

Neelam’s day begins with a warm tonic: half a lemon, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of saffron. “Saffron is very good for the skin,” she said. Next, a shot of fresh amla juice – not bottled. She shared: “I drink the juice of two amlas. It's like a shot. Fresh. The ones in bottles have preservatives and who knows what else. This is sour and bitter, but amazing for detox and vitamin C.”

Thirty minutes later comes her ritual cappuccino — warm coconut milk frothed with coffee. Then, her breakfast dismantles one of the most persistent nutrition myths: she has a two-egg-white omelette with one whole yolk.

Neelam's supplement stack after 50

Post-50, Neelam’s clear about one thing: guessing doesn’t work. Listening to your body — and to experts — does. She opened her daily pill box on camera, with a caveat: “I know this because I follow a proper nutritionist. Learn from it, but consult your doctor first.”

Her current lineup is targeted and simple. She takes a B-complex for immunity and metabolism, omega-3 at morning and night — saying it is 'very important for your brain, because mine gets fried all day' — and DHEA, two to three times a week, which she called 'amazing for women after 50 — for body and mind'.

Neelam added that she also includes vitamin D for bone and immune health, and liposomal glutathione for skin, detoxification, and ageing. “People ask what my secret is. This is amazing,” she shared, adding that this beauty routine is precise, targeted, and nothing she started without guidance.

Lunch: Cauliflower pizza, and 'cheat day'

Neelam shared that she leans into clean, high-protein, low-carb meals. Her go-to lunch is a custom broccoli-and-cauliflower crust pizza topped with egg whites, chicken pepperoni, and cherry tomatoes.

But wellness, in her house, also comes with 40 years of history. Enter Prakash, her mother’s family cook, with a plate of hot sabudana vada. In the video, Neelam shared: “He always ruins my diet… alright, today is my cheat day. After this, I’ll have to work out a bit.”

That balance is the point. Neelam isn’t anti-indulgence. She’s pro-awareness. To cut liquid calories, she’s strict: no juices, no fancy coffees, no weekday alcohol. “That’s where most people eat an extra meal without realising it,” she said.

Training: functional, not punishing

Her fitness is built for real life – three times a week, Neelam does one hour of functional training. On off days: one hour of walking or 45 minutes of cardio. Before the gym, she follows a custom pre-workout: plant protein, decaf coffee, ice, coconut milk, and a touch of sweetener.

Neelam highlighted that her trainer, Nilesh, programs movements that mirror daily life — push-ups, half-lunges, rotations. The goal isn’t to exhaust her. It’s to support her. “I can feel my whole back cracking. My lower back is stiff from over-sitting," she admitted mid-session. “He understands there are aches and pains. He only pushes me that much," she added.

It’s a refreshing departure from the ‘no pain, no gain’ narrative. For Neelam, who is around 56, recovery and joint health matter as much as strength. She ended the day with another protein-forward meal: a chicken frankie in a beetroot and quinoa wrap, with yoghurt-marinated chicken and a little egg. Simple. Satisfying. Sustainable.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

 
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Sanya Panwar

With a keen eye for detail and a heart for storytelling, Sanya is a seasoned lifestyle journalist who has spent over a decade documenting the intersection of aesthetics and substance. Since stepping into the media world in 2012, she has cultivated a career defined by versatility, curiosity, and an unwavering passion for what makes life both beautiful and meaningful. Over the last many years, she has navigated the fast-paced realms of health, wellness, fitness and fashion while pivoting seamlessly into the nuances of decor and travel. Her work often explores the deeper layers of modern living, delving into art and decor trends that transform spaces, insightful perspectives on gender, parenting, and mental health, immersive travel narratives that capture the essence of a destination. A self-proclaimed aesthetics enthusiast, Sanya doesn't just report on trends — she analyses them. Whether she’s identifying the next shift in fitness or discovering a breakthrough in design, she uses her platform to spark meaningful conversations that resonate with a contemporary audience. Sanya is an alumna of St. Xavier’s College, Kolkata, and the Asian College of Journalism (ACJ), Chennai, where she honed the investigative rigour she brings to her lifestyle reporting today. When she isn't chasing deadlines or conducting interviews, Sanya practices what she preaches. You’ll likely find her sipping matcha, practicing yoga, or scouting the newest cafes. Above all, she finds her balance in nature — whether it's a quiet hike or a moment of reflection in the outdoors, she remains constantly inspired by the tranquillity of the natural world.

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Catch every big hit, every wicket with Crick-it, a one stop destination for Live Scores, Match Stats, Quizzes, Polls & much more. Explore now!.

Catch your daily dose of Fashion, Taylor Swift, Health, Festivals, Travel, Relationship, Recipe and all the other Latest Lifestyle News on Hindustan Times Website and APPs.
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