Virat Kohli avoids masala in his diet because he prefers a simpler, more controlled flavor profile focused on health and performance.
Kohli's Dietary Preferences
Virat Kohli has specific dietary preferences that steer him away from foods rich in masala (spice mixes). According to an interview, his diet mainly consists of steamed and boiled foods with minimal seasoning:
- Simple Seasoning: He seasons his food with only "salt, pepper, and lime."
- Taste is Secondary: Kohli stated, "I am not a big fanatic about the taste of food, I don't care about the taste." This suggests that his dietary choices are driven by factors other than culinary enjoyment, most likely athletic performance and health.
Reasons for Avoiding Masala
While the exact reason for avoiding masala isn't explicitly stated, we can infer a few possibilities:
- Digestive Health: Spices, while flavorful, can sometimes irritate the digestive system for some individuals. Avoiding masala might be a way for Kohli to ensure optimal gut health, crucial for athletic performance.
- Controlled Diet: By sticking to basic seasonings, Kohli likely has greater control over his calorie and macronutrient intake. Complex dishes with masala can contain hidden fats and other ingredients that can make it harder to maintain a strict diet.
- Focus on Nutrients: Steamed and boiled foods retain more nutrients than those cooked with heavy spices and oils. Kohli's focus on simple cooking methods likely aims to maximize the nutritional value of his meals.
In essence, Virat Kohli's preference for simple, lightly seasoned food stems from a focus on health, performance, and precise dietary control, making masala-heavy dishes unsuitable for his needs.