How a GP and Colon Cancer Survivor Optimizes Her Intestinal Health Through Diet
In the first installment of our new series, 44-year-old GP, author, and colon cancer survivor Dr. Anisha Patel shares how she maintains intestinal health despite her hectic schedule.
Starting the Day: Hydration and Exercise
Every day at 6:30 a.m., Dr. Patel starts her day with hydration and exercise. She keeps a glass of water by her bedside to drink immediately upon waking. Throughout the day, she consumes at least two liters of water, including sparkling water, herbal tea, and occasional diet sodas.
Exercise is a non-negotiable part of her routine. Whether it’s running, Pilates, or weightlifting, she ensures she moves before diving into her busy workday.
Balanced Breakfast: Energy and Nutritional Intestinal Support
Dr. Patel’s breakfast is carefully crafted to promote intestinal health. After her workout, she enjoys either boiled eggs with oat cakes, fruit, and mixed nuts or overnight oats with seeds, almond milk, and fruit. These nutrient-dense meals provide fiber and energy to start her day right.
Midday Meals: Focusing on Leftovers and Batch Cooking
Lunch is typically a healthy mix of leftovers or pre-prepared salads rich in plant-based ingredients like grains, lentils, and vegetables. She prioritizes reducing food waste while nourishing her gut microbiota with antioxidants and polyphenols.
Dr. Patel also sneaks in a short walk after lunch to refresh her mind and improve her overall well-being.
Afternoon Snacks: Gut-Boosting Fruits
To maintain energy and intestinal health, Dr. Patel reaches for gut-friendly fruits like kiwis, known for their soluble and insoluble fiber. She sometimes pairs them with dried mangoes or oranges for a balanced and satisfying snack.
Dinners: Simple, Nutritious, and Family-Friendly
Dinners are prepared with efficiency in mind. Stir-fries loaded with vegetables or batch-cooked curries, pies, and lasagnas are staples in her household. Her meals incorporate diverse proteins and an abundance of herbs and spices, all beneficial for intestinal health.
Evening Treats: Mindful Indulgence
Evenings are reserved for light, satisfying treats. Greek yogurt, kefir, and dark chocolate are her go-to options, offering indulgence without compromising intestinal health.
Alcohol in Moderation
Dr. Patel enjoys an occasional gin and tonic or glass of fizz but limits alcohol to weekends, ensuring her gut health isn’t adversely affected.
Prioritizing Sleep
By 9:30 or 10:00 p.m., Dr. Patel is in bed, ensuring she gets the rest her body needs. Adequate sleep is a critical aspect of her holistic approach to intestinal health.
Dr. Patel’s commitment to her intestinal health is a testament to how simple dietary and lifestyle choices can profoundly impact overall well-being. Following her balanced approach could be a step toward a healthier you!