How I Keep Healthy: Healing Begins at Home

Doctors spend their lives caring for others, but often neglect their own health. Long hours, emergency calls, irregular meals and high-pressure decision-making make medicine one of the most demanding professions.

According to Dr Tokala Surender Reddy, senior surgical gastroenterologist, laparoscopic, bariatric & robotic surgeon at Yashoda Hospitals, staying healthy isn’t optional, it’s essential to delivering better patient care.

Fitness is part of the profession

The physical demands vary across specialties. Physicians spend long hours sitting in consultations, increasing the risk of poor posture, back and neck pain, and age-related muscle loss. Surgeons, meanwhile, spend hours standing in operating theatres, where endurance, precision and concentration are critical. “Maintaining good health is not a luxury for doctors. It is a professional responsibility.”

Three pillars of good health

Dr Reddy believes lasting wellness rests on three simple habits: diet, exercise and rest. He compares the human body to a smartphone. “No matter how advanced it is, it cannot function without regular charging. Likewise, six to seven hours of quality sleep every day are essential to recover physically and mentally.”

1. Exercise doesn’t have to be complicated

“I believe in consistency rather than perfection. Brisk walking, cycling, yoga and simple strength exercises four to five times a week help maintain muscle strength, improve posture and build endurance, especially for surgeons who spend long hours in the operating theatre.”

2. Don’t neglect nutrition

Irregular meal timings are common among doctors and often lead to acidity and nutritional deficiencies. Dr Reddy recommends a balanced diet. “I try to follow a balanced diet that includes lean protein, fresh vegetables, fruits and adequate hydration. Some people benefit from intermittent fasting, but nutrition should always be personalised.”

While some doctors choose intermittent fasting, he says dietary plans should always be personalised.

3. Mental health matters too

Physical health alone isn’t enough. “Spending time with family, pursuing hobbies and taking occasional breaks help reduce stress and prevent burnout. Looking after your mental well-being is just as important as looking after your physical health. Spending time with family, pursuing hobbies and taking regular vacations help reduce stress and prevent burnout. “The goal isn’t simply to live longer, but to practise better.”