Misbah urged by PETA India to enforce vegan diet on Pakistan players

A nutritionist from across the border explains to the head coach the many benefits of taking a wholly plant-based diet.

By Web Desk
September 21, 2019
Misbah, a renowned fitness freak, has enforced a new diet plan since taking over. — Photo: PCB 

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India has lauded Misbahul Haq's decision to ban fattening, unhealthy foods from the national team's menu, and urged the Pakistan head coach to take the next step by making his team eat a vegan diet.

The suggestion has been made in a letter penned by Dr Kiran Ahuja, who identifies himself as a nutritionist and health expert with PETA India.

"I commend your decision to require Pakistan's cricketers to eat more healthily. This is a wonderful first step, and we hope you'll now consider encouraging them to eat vegan (wholly plant-based)."

The nutritionist quoted to Misbah the examples of several top athletes who have gone vegan.

"From tennis legend Novak Djokovic to Formula 1 champ Lewis Hamilton, elite sports stars are opting for vegetables, fruits, pulses, grains, and other vegan foods instead of animal-derived ones to improve their game and their general health," he said.

"Former Australia cricketer Jason Gillespie stays in top shape by eating vegan, and India's national football captain, Sunil Chhetri, has also stopped consuming animals' flesh, eggs, and milk. Likewise, US women's national football team star Alex Morgan says that being vegan makes her "stronger and helps with fatigue and recovery," Dr Ahuja added.

"Athletes who eat vegan foods also score big for protecting animals and the environment, making them all-round winners. PETA India would be happy to provide additional nutritional information, cooking and shopping tips, and anything else you might need."

Misbah, a renowned fitness freak, has enforced a new diet plan since taking over. He had reportedly taken oil-rich foods such as biryani and other red-meat dishes off the menu in favour of healthier options.

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