Social Media Sensation Dr Pal Manickam Explains Viral Reverse Banana Leaf Diet

Dr Palaniappan Manickam, a Consultant Gastroenterologist based in California and a social media sensation known for blending humour with health advice, has shared an amusing story from a recent potluck that highlights his signature eating style — the reverse banana leaf method.
“My friends invited me for a potluck. I showed up early,” he wrote in a LinkedIn post that’s now grabbing attention. The table was laid with chicken chips, egg curry, rasam, and pickle. But there was a twist in the tale.

“The moment I started explaining reverse banana leaf method – fiber first, rice last – one by one they disappeared,” he quipped.

In his words, “By the time I looked up from my plate, they were all magically in the kitchen, eating rice mountains in silence. They were like school kids hiding snacks from the teacher. They knew what was coming.”

Breaking down the reverse banana leaf method, Dr Palaniappan explained: “We don’t start with a mountain of rice. We start with vegetables, dal, rasam, sambar – all the fiber. And rice? Just a small side character.”

“Start from the sides, end with the center. Flip the leaf and save your gut,” he added with his trademark wit.

“I’m pretty sure they won’t be inviting me for the next one.