PV Sindhu, an Indian badminton star, is well-known for her powerful game and excellent fitness. But what keeps her motivated on the court? It turns out her secret is a well-balanced diet with a special emphasis on a component that we all require: protein. Sindhu recently revealed how protein has been an important part of her diet since she was a child. Her nutrition, which includes homemade laddoos and meticulously planned meals, ensures that she gets enough nutrients to power her performance. Here's everything you need to know about her diet and why protein is so important for remaining healthy and powerful.
Protein in every meal
Sindhu revealed in the interview with The Indian Express, that how her grandmother ensured she ate enough protein by making laddoos packed with nuts. Even before scientific nutrition became a priority, traditional food wisdom helped her stay strong. Growing up in a family of athletes, she followed a diet that included eggs, dal, and paneer in every meal. Her mother made sure that protein was always on her plate, which helped her build endurance and recover from intense practice sessions.
How PV Sindhu spreads her protein intake
The body can only process 20 to 40 grams of at a time, so it's important to spread it out throughout the day. Sindhu pays close attention to this philosophy.
- Breakfast: She starts her day with two or three eggs to fuel her morning workout.
- Her lunch consists of salad, dal, paneer or veggie curry, green leafy vegetables, a small amount of rice, and curd.
- Dinner is similar to lunch, but she replaces paneer with chicken to meet her protein requirements.
When she doesn't get enough protein from diet, she supplements with whey protein, which is high in important amino acids and quickly absorbed by the body.

(Pic courtesy: iStock)
Why protein is essential for the human body
Sindhu emphasizes that protein is not just for athletes—it is essential for everyone. Here’s why protein is a must-have nutrient:
- Builds and repairs muscles: Protein helps in and recovery after exercise.
- Boosts metabolism: Eating enough protein can help burn more calories and reduce body fat.
- Keeps you full for longer: It increases satiety, reducing unnecessary cravings.
- Supports overall health: Protein is vital for skin, hair, nails, and immune function.
Many Indians follow a carb-heavy diet, often missing out on this essential nutrient. Sindhu’s approach reminds us that we should prioritize protein in every meal.
Pre and post-workout protein
Sindhu being a professional athlete, understands the necessity of protein for energy and recovery. She eats a protein snack before or after her workouts in order to encourage muscular building. If she is travelling or busy, she relies on protein drinks or powders, which she sometimes mixes into yoghurt for a healthy snack. She also avoids sugar to stay in peak physical condition.
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Busting the biggest protein myth
Many people avoid protein because they believe it would make them bulky. Sindhu, on the other hand, eliminates this notion, claiming that protein aids in the development of lean muscle rather than bulk. In fact, it removes fat and helps in weight loss. She also emphasises that simply going to the gym is insufficient; without adequate protein, workouts can leave people feeling weak rather than strong.