In a fitness landscape filled with viral hacks, quick transformations and aggressive marketing, celebrity trainer Siddhartha Singh is challenging people to stop and rethink what they’re doing in the name of health.
Singh, who trains actor Tamannaah Bhatia, shared a candid video on Instagram on February 9 that offers a reality check for those planning their fitness goals for 2026. His message was clear: sustainable results don’t come from extreme trends or quick fixes, but from consistent, science-backed habits.
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Three of the most damaging fitness trends still dominating the conversation, Singh warned that many popular approaches can produce quick results – but often at the cost of long-term health.
Why low-carb diets can backfire
Low-carb diets have long been touted as a quick way to lose weight. While Singh acknowledged that such plans could show rapid changes in scale, he warned that the long-term impact could be counterproductive.
“Number one is low-carb diets. Here’s the problem. You’ll probably lose weight very quickly, but your hormones will crash and your cravings will literally kill you,” he said.
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Rather than cutting out carbs completely, Singh recommended focusing on a more balanced approach. “Instead, go into a caloric deficit. Enjoy your carbs and eat lots of protein,” he suggested, noting that adequate protein intake helps preserve muscle mass and promotes hormonal stability.
For many Indians, where carbohydrate-rich foods are a dietary staple, this advice offers a more realistic and sustainable framework than restrictive eating habits.
The Truth About “Detox Teas”
Singh reserved his strongest criticism for the detox teas and cleansing supplements that continue to be widely marketed as essential tools for weight loss and health.
“Number two is detox teas. There’s no tea in the world. There’s no supplement in the world that can detox you. Companies are fooling you and taking your money,” he said.
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He reminded the audience that the human body already has built-in detoxification systems, especially the liver and kidneys. Instead of relying on packaged products, Singh encouraged habits that support these natural processes, including:
- High fiber intake
- Adequate protein consumption
- Regular daily movement
- Consistent sleep patterns
From a health perspective, this advice is in line with the medical consensus that no commercial product can replace the body’s own detoxification mechanisms.
Why sleep is not optional for weight loss
In a culture that often celebrates long working hours and the constant hustle and bustle, sleep is often compromised. Singh described this as a serious mistake for anyone focused on fitness and fat loss.
“Finally… not enough sleep. If your sleep is poor, it will increase your appetite. It will slow down your recovery, which will actually cause you to store more fat in your body,” he explained.
For 2026, his recommendation was simple: aim for seven to eight hours of uninterrupted quality sleep. He described it as “unquestionable” and “a must-have” for anyone serious about improving body composition and overall health.
(Note to readers: This report is based on user-generated content from social media. LiveMint has not independently verified and does not endorse the claims.)