Healthy Habits: Interval training, portion control key for Dr. Sunjay Devarajan

January 13, 2020 Healthy Habits, Nutrition and Wellness

It can sometimes be difficult to find ways to stay healthy, so we’ve asked members of our Baylor College of Medicine community to share what they do in their daily lives to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Dr. Sunjay Devarajan, assistant professor of medicine-pulmonary at Baylor, shares some of his healthy habits with us.

Q: What health decisions start your day?
A: Ideally, I like to wake up early, drink some water and black coffee, and get my exercise in. That way, I spend no time getting anxious about workouts as the day goes on. I never skip breakfast because it’s my favorite meal by far.

Q: What is your go-to healthy breakfast?
A: I enjoy a small amount of cereal, low-carbohydrate protein powder and added berries and nuts.

Q: What is your favorite type of exercise?
A: I am a big fan of interval training that includes some low to moderate-sized hand weights. I regularly use the Nike Fitness app (free!) and Fitness Blender on YouTube (also free!) I also have a YMCA membership. Their gym and pool are great and their classes are really challenging.

Q: What keeps you motivated during your workout?
A: The reminder of how great I will feel later on in the day. Also, great music (AWOLNATION is a good choice!)

Q: Has the BCM BeWell Program encouraged any of your healthy habits?
A: Honestly, I go out of my way to reach my step count goals thanks to BeWell. It’s also a nice motivation to regularly exercise instead of being just a weekend warrior.

Q: What activities do you do when you can’t fit in a full workout?
A: Honestly, you might find me jogging in place or punching the air at my desk… or walking aimlessly through the McNair building.

Q: What is your favorite healthful snack?
A: I am a sucker for any type of protein bar (though their healthiness is debatable.)

Q: What do you include in your child’s lunch?
A: A peanut butter and jelly sandwich, water and some cookies or chips. The same lunch I had when I was a kid!

Q: How do you make an unhealthy recipe healthy?
A: Instead of using heavy whipping cream, I use Greek yogurt. I also use avocado instead of butter. Also, just eating less of whatever it is you make can be healthier – even if it’s got all the good stuff in it.

Q: What hobbies do you have to help you relax?
A: Playing music for sure. I also enjoy watching Brooklyn 99 or Grace & Frankie with my wife before bed.

Q: What is your go-to Houston restaurant for a healthy meal?
A: Fadi’s can be extremely healthy if you take it easy on the pita.

Q: Do you use an activity tracker or Fitbit and what is your daily step goal?
A: I religiously wear one and my step goal is 10000 steps.

Q: What is your favorite health tip that you live by?
A: Everything is OK… in moderation. Also, if you go to a restaurant, automatically cut your portion in half and take the rest home for the next day.