Healthy Habits: Protein shakes, rowing workouts help Dr. Nehal Patel stay fit
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. Nehal Patel, assistant professor of general internal medicine at Baylor, shares some of her healthy habits with us.
Q: What is your go-to healthy breakfast?
A: I usually drink a protein coffee shake. It has caffeine, keeps me full, and is quick to make – which is essential since I’m usually rushing out the door!
Q: What is your favorite type of exercise?
A: I really enjoy Orangetheory Fitness classes because there’s so much variety – treadmill, water rower, and weights/floor exercises. Two years ago, I hated exercising and could never find an activity or class that I liked. After starting Orangetheory, I can truly say I enjoy exercising now and its one of the highlights of my day!
Q: What keeps you motivated during your workout?
A: Knowing that I’m making progress, even if it’s slow. It’s very fulfilling to feel improvement in your endurance or strength during a workout. Good music is also key.
Q: What activities do you do when you can’t fit in a full workout?
A: I try to take the stairs whenever possible at work, or do a quick 10-minute row on our rowing machine at home.
Q: What is your favorite healthful snack?
A: Hummus with either pita chips or carrots. For something sweet, I love Yasso bars (frozen Greek yogurt.)
Q: How do you make an unhealthy recipe healthy?
A: I don’t cook too much unfortunately, but when I do, I try to minimize oil and salt. I use egg whites instead of whole eggs. And in baked goods, I try to use applesauce instead of oil.
Q: What is your nighttime skin regimen?
A: I wash my face with a gentle salicylic acid cleanser. And I sometimes use aloe vera gel (straight from the plant) for blemishes – it’s amazing how effective pure aloe vera is.
Q: What is your go-to Houston restaurant for a healthy meal?
A: Finding a truly healthy restaurant meal is hard, but I think Local Foods and Mendocino Farms do a pretty good job.
Q: What is your favorite health tip that you live by?
A: Small changes can produce big results. As a genuine couch potato up until two years ago, I can really attest to this!
Additional Resources
Lisa Icard practices self-care, enjoys nutritious breakfasts
Dr. Holly Harris enjoys Zumba, high-intensity interval training
Read more healthy habits from members of our community.
Learn how Baylor promotes a culture of healthy living and wellness.
Very impressive! Good information to stay healthy and active!