Exclusive: Dr. Ambika Dutt on Weight Loss, Nutrition Myths and Making Healthy Living Simple

From struggling with her own weight to transforming her lifestyle and becoming a trusted name in nutrition, Dr. Ambika Dutt has built a strong community online. In this exclusive conversation with Whosthat360, she opens up about her own journey, common myths around viral fad diets, and much more. If you're looking to start a healthy lifestyle, this is a must-read!

What motivated you to start sharing nutrition content on Instagram, and how did the initial response shape your journey?

My journey started when I was overweight. I lost around 15 kilos through consistent lifestyle changes. That experience opened my eyes to how confusing and overwhelming health advice can be. I decided to enrol in a nutrition program to truly understand the science behind health and food. Once I gained that knowledge, I felt a strong urge to share it with others who were struggling like I once did. I started making videos to simplify nutrition, and the initial response, messages from people who felt seen and guided, motivated me to keep going and turn this passion into a purpose.

Why do you think people are turning to creators over traditional sources for health information?

Because creators share real-life, relatable solutions. Traditional sources often feel too clinical or rigid, while creators can simplify complex topics and show how to apply them in everyday life. People want to see someone living the lifestyle, not just prescribing it, and that's the trust creators are able to build.

Social media is full of viral diet hacks. What's the most common myth you find yourself debunking?

Detox drinks or quick fixes will make you lose weight. This is the biggest one! Your liver and kidneys already detox your body naturally; you don't need magic juices or starvation diets. Sustainable weight loss is about balanced eating, protein-rich meals, and consistency, not hacks.

Since you've personally gone through such a big transformation, what was the most difficult part of your journey, and what advice would you give to someone who is struggling with their own?

The hardest part was being patient. We live in a quick-result culture, and I wanted everything overnight. But once I shifted my focus from fast to forever, everything changed. My advice: start small, stay consistent, and stop chasing extremes. Your body will reward you with lasting results.

Have you ever faced challenges or criticism for debunking popular health trends? How did you handle it?

All the time! Especially when I call out viral diets or misinformation. At first, it felt uncomfortable, but now I see it as part of my role, to create awareness, not to please everyone. I stick to facts, cite credible sources, and always stay respectful. If a trend doesn't help people in the long run, it's my responsibility to say so.

Many people feel healthy eating is expensive or complicated, how do you make it more accessible in your content?

By focusing on what's already in our kitchens! I show how Indian staples, dal, chana, paneer, millets, can be powerful for health. You don't need imported superfoods or fancy supplements to eat well. I also share easy swaps and budget-friendly meal prep ideas that real families can use.

Do you see a shift in people moving away from “one-size-fits-all” diet plans toward more personalized approaches?

Absolutely! People are realizing that what works for one may not work for another. Our lifestyles, health history, and preferences are unique. That's why I always advocate flexible frameworks over rigid meal plans, so people can adapt them to their life, not the other way around.

What's one lifestyle change you personally swear by that goes beyond just aesthetics?

Prioritizing strength training. Not just for weight loss or looking toned, but for bone health, energy, and mental clarity. It's one habit that has changed how I age, how I feel and how I show up every day.

Consistency is tough for many creators, what keeps you motivated and inspired to keep creating?

My audience. Every time someone messages me saying a small tip helped them feel better, or they finally understand how to eat without guilt, it fuels me. I also create a version of me that once felt lost in the noise. If I can be the guide I didn't have, it's worth showing up.

If you could give your younger self one piece of health advice, what would it be?

Stop punishing your body with extremes. Nourish it, move it and be patient. Health is not a project; it's a relationship you build over time.