“Practice What You Preach” – Dr. Chittawar’s Disciplined Lifestyle Inspires Patients and Peers Alike

Bhopal, June 30, 2025 Doctors don’t just prescribe medicines — their behavior and lifestyle also serve as a powerful message to society. This was the core message shared by senior endocrinologist Dr. Sachin Chittawar of Bhopal while addressing a press conference on the eve of National Doctor’s Day. Dr. Chittawar emphasized that a physician must live by the advice they give to patients.

“I apply my own advice to my personal life — that is my moral responsibility,” said Dr. Chittawar.
According to him, if a doctor leads an unhealthy lifestyle while advising patients to be healthy, the impact of such advice becomes diluted. “Our life is our strongest credential,” he added.

Dr. Chittawar is not just a specialist in treating diabetes, thyroid disorders, and obesity — he is also a living example of a disciplined and active lifestyle. His structured daily routine serves as a source of inspiration for many of his patients.

✦ A Disciplined Routine That Serves as Its Own Prescription

Dr. Chittawar wakes up every day at 4:00 AM. He begins his day with meditation and self-reflection, which he believes are vital for mental stability and inner awareness. This is followed by pranayama and yoga.

For physical fitness, he cycles approximately 30 kilometers.

At night, he follows a “digital detox” routine by staying away from screens and mobile phones, which he says improves sleep quality and helps him start the next day with renewed energy.

✦ “Practice Before You Preach” – A Humble Appeal to Fellow Doctors

During the press meet, Dr. Chittawar appealed to doctors across the country to prioritize their own health. “When we advise patients to eat better, exercise regularly, and manage stress, we should also follow the same principles ourselves. If we are not healthy, our message loses credibility,” he said.

He suggested that doctors should not limit themselves to clinics and hospitals, but actively participate in public health awareness through schools, colleges, and community forums.

✦ Scientific and Social Perspective: Lifestyle Diseases Are the Greatest Health Challenge

Dr. Chittawar highlighted that lifestyle disorders — especially diabetes, obesity, and thyroid dysfunction — are emerging as major health concerns in India.

• Diabetes: Referred to as India’s “silent epidemic,” affects 1 in 10 Indian adults. Regular testing, especially HbA1c, can help control it in time.
• Obesity: Increasing rapidly among children and adolescents, and may lead to heart diseases, hypertension, and mental stress in the long run.
• Thyroid Disorders: Often overlooked, especially among women, with symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, and mood swings. Early detection through a simple TSH test is both possible and effective.

“Preventing these diseases is easier and more cost-effective than treating them,” he said, stressing the need to shift focus from cure to prevention.

✦ Promoting Health Awareness Through Digital Media

In today’s digital age where misinformation spreads rapidly, Dr. Chittawar is using social media to share scientifically accurate health information. He runs educational health video series on YouTube, shares ‘My Health Routine’ on Instagram, and conducts regular Facebook Live health sessions.

“If fake news can go viral on social media, then so can health facts — provided we make a consistent effort,” he said.

✦ A Doctor’s Day Resolution – “Healthy Doctors, Stronger Nation”

In conclusion, Dr. Chittawar said Doctor’s Day is not just a day of honor, but also a moment for reflection and commitment. He urged all doctors to pledge on this day to stay physically, mentally, and socially fit so they can serve as positive role models for society.

“Healthy doctors lead to healthy patients, and ultimately a healthier India — that’s my vision,” said Dr. Chittawar.