Dr Anuj Kapadia, senior interventional cardiologist, shares his approach to cardiovascular health
Dr Anuj Kapadia (Image:DC)
In a world buzzing with crash diets, 21-day fitness challenges, and trending supplements, it’s easy to get lost in the noise. But for Dr. Anuj Kapadia, senior interventional cardiologist at AIG Hospitals, heart health isn’t built on hacks — it’s shaped by what you do consistently, every single day, especially when no one’s watching. “The heart doesn’t get strong overnight,” he says. “It’s built slowly, through habits that seem small but add up — movement, food, rest, routine. There’s no shortcut here, and that’s the beauty of it.”
Juggling a high-pressure career in medicine with a personal commitment to wellbeing, Dr. Kapadia treats movement as essential. “Running is like brushing my teeth — I don’t debate it, I just do it,” he shares. “It gives me clarity. It grounds me. And when I add strength training, the benefits go even deeper — improved endurance, lower blood pressure, better cardiac function. It’s how I protect my heart — physically and emotionally.” Even on the busiest days, he makes time — 30 to 45 minutes — for exercise. “Some days it’s a run, some days a brisk walk or a quick strength session,” he says. “It’s not about being perfect. It’s about showing up.”
Food, too, follows a steady rhythm. There are no calorie counts or superfood obsessions — just simple, nourishing meals. “I eat what I grew up with — dal, sabzi, rice, rotis made from whole wheat or millets, some curd on the side. Food that feels good and fuels me,” he says. “Trendy diets come and go, but I trust what’s stood the test of time.” He doesn’t eliminate carbs or follow strict plans. “I eat everything — just in the right amounts, and with attention. That’s it. Moderation and consistency always win.”
One metric he does pay close attention to? His resting heart rate. “It’s such an underrated marker,” he explains. “A low resting heart rate tells me my heart is working efficiently, without strain. It’s a great feedback tool, and I encourage others to track theirs too.” Yet, for all his discipline, Dr Kapadia is equally intentional about rest and recovery. “That’s where the magic happens,” he says. “I don’t glorify exhaustion. I sleep well, stay hydrated, take walking breaks between appointments. These aren’t indulgences — they’re essential to staying well.”
His day typically starts early, often with a run and a quiet breakfast. He avoids sitting for too long, moves between consultations, and keeps stress from piling up.
“Heart health isn’t about ticking off boxes or chasing extremes,” he says.
“It’s about how you treat yourself on an ordinary Tuesday. It’s in the meals you eat without overthinking, the walk you take after a long day, the choice to go to bed on time. That’s what builds resilience.”
In the end, it’s not luck or chance that keeps the heart strong — it’s the thousand small choices made with care, day after day.
( Source : Deccan Chronicle )
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