Padma Lakshmi is a culinary powerhouse known for her vast knowledge of food. As the longtime host of Top Chef, which is gearing up for its 20th season this spring, she has established herself as an authority in the culinary world. With accolades like a James Beard Award, she also produces and hosts the Hulu series Taste the Nation and has authored five books, including her children’s book, Tomatoes for Neela released in 2021.
Now, Lakshmi is using her expertise to address an urgent issue: America’s nutritional deficit. According to the CDC, merely 12.3% of Americans consume sufficient fruits and vegetables. In collaboration with KIND Snacks, Lakshmi has launched Padma’s Kind Kitchen, which features pop-up events in New York City and Houston. These pop-up kitchens will be open to the public for a limited time from February 28 through March 1 at Chelsea Market in Manhattan, operating from noon to 8 p.m. Eastern.
In a conversation with The Healthy @Reader’s Digest, Lakshmi discussed how she has educated her 13-year-old daughter about healthy eating—a concept that can include a sprinkle of maple syrup on carrots—her fitness routine surrounded by food, and how, at 52, she feels more empowered and vibrant than ever.
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Padma Lakshmi on Her Passion for Healthy Cooking
The Healthy @Reader’s Digest: How do you incorporate healthy ingredients in your recipes, and have you been successful in encouraging your daughter to enjoy the same foods you do?
Lakshmi: My daughter and I have different tastes, but healthy food doesn’t have to be bland. The key is to view healthy eating not as a chore but as an opportunity for deliciousness. Instead of labeling something as a ‘healthy choice,’ focus on finding ways to make it enjoyable. For example, I love carrots, and to make them tastier, I might glaze them with some maple syrup. Maple syrup has a lower glycemic index than most other sweeteners. Just a tablespoon, some salt, and spices are all you need to bring out the best flavors.
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The Healthy: That sounds like a great tip! You’ve teamed up with KIND to launch Padma’s KIND Kitchen, which features your recipes. Can you share how you designed those dishes?
Lakshmi: I aimed to draw inspiration from their bars. Though I had never made energy bites before, the concept intrigued me. In India, we have snacks made with caramel and peanut or sesame clusters. I wanted to merge that idea with the ethos of a KIND bar: whole foods and pronounceable ingredients, along with my childhood favorites.
The energy bites contain almond butter, dates, cranberries, sesame, and crushed almonds for added texture. I also love to make little toasts with my daughter—they make a perfect after-school snack. With fall and winter in New York, butternut or acorn squash have been fantastic options, especially fresh from the Union Square market.
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The Healthy: Eating seasonal vegetables is better for your health, isn’t it?
Lakshmi: Exactly! That’s why I wrote Tomatoes for Neela. Children often lose track of what’s in season because we live in such an abundant world. Seasonal vegetables not only taste better but are also more nutritious.
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Padma Lakshmi on Healthy Aging
The Healthy: You’ll be turning 53 next fall, and that might surprise many. Recently, there’s been much discussion in the media about the expectations placed on women as they age. What has your experience been like, especially being in the public eye?
Lakshmi: Society often seems to prize youth, valuing women only during their childbearing years—even if they have no intention of having more children. The truth is, I work out a lot because I enjoy eating! Physically, exercise makes me feel fantastic, but it also boosts my mental well-being. I feel proud of my body now more than ever.
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I embrace my body and sometimes post sexy photos in a swimsuit. While some claim I shouldn’t do that at my age, I feel liberated. People are multidimensional; we can be silly, sexy, serious, or contemplative. When I modeled swimwear and lingerie in my youth, no one batted an eye. But now, I’m somehow expected to outgrow my sensuality? I’m more at ease with myself now than I ever was in my twenties or thirties. I wouldn’t trade my current age for anything.
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Padma Lakshmi on Women’s Health
The Healthy: Your dedication to your endometriosis foundation is commendable. Recent discussions surrounding depictions of this condition in media highlight your forward-thinking stance. Why did you decide to become an advocate for women’s health issues?
Lakshmi: My advocacy stems from personal experience. After struggling with undiagnosed endometriosis for over 13 years, I felt a deep frustration at losing so much time. When my niece began to experience similar issues, it motivated me to bring awareness to this condition that affects over 200 million women worldwide. I want to ensure the next generation isn’t trapped in the same struggles I faced and to level the playing field for all women.
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Padma Lakshmi’s Wellness Routine
The Healthy: What other rituals or routines do you incorporate to stay healthy, including any specific supplements you take?
Lakshmi: I’m diligent about scheduling facials every four to six weeks, as they’re essential for my skin type, which can’t handle chemical peels or harsh treatments. I take various vitamins including collagen and an ayurvedic herb to promote hair health. Staying hydrated is crucial, and I’ve found giving myself downtime after filming Taste the Nation or Top Chef to be incredibly rejuvenating. My daughter spends weekends with her father, and during that time, I cherish quiet moments at home—reading, crafting cozy meals, and simply caring for myself.
