How 4 Simple Lifestyle Changes Helped a U.S. Surgeon Lose 23kg and Reverse Autoimmune Disease

A surgeon based in Los Angeles shared the four main lifestyle modifications that assisted him in shedding 23 kilograms, reversing an autoimmune condition, and ceasing his daily medication use, all accomplished without undergoing surgery.

Dr. Darshan Shah, aged 42, who established the wellness and anti-aging center Next Health, stated Business Insider His metamorphosis started in 2016 when his spouse was expecting their firstborn.

He mentioned that he was in poor condition: obese, suffering from hypertension, elevated cholesterol levels, an auto-immune disorder, and facing a significant likelihood of premature mortality. Additionally, he expressed his desire to witness his son reaching adulthood.

Even though Shah worked 12-hour shifts beginning at 6 a.m., he decided to take an entire year off from surgery to concentrate on studying aging and transforming his lifestyle. During this period, he shed 50 pounds, managed to reverse his autoimmune condition, and ceased using all ten of his prescribed drugs.

He mentioned, 'I looked forward to waking up each morning and springing out of bed ready to tackle the day.'

His metamorphosis motivated him to open Next Health In 2016, a health clinic began operations spanning across the U.S. and Dubai.

Shah credits his recovery in health to these four modifications in his lifestyle:

1. Eliminating ultra-processed foods

Shah eliminated ultra-processed carbohydrates from his eating habits, aligning with growing scientific support. A 2024 analysis of 45 studies encompassing 9.8 million individuals, featured in a publication, illustrates this point. The BMJ Identified connections between ultra-processed foods and heightened risks of cardiovascular diseases, depression, and diabetes.

Although nutrition experts do not suggest eliminating these foods completely, they encourage reducing their intake for improved well-being.

2. Ensuring you get a minimum of 7 hours of sleep

Prior to changing his way of life, Shah typically got only four hours of sleep per night. However, he now makes sure to get at least seven hours, which aligns with the recommendations set forth by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

According to a 2022 research involving 10,000 UK employees, individuals who got less than five hours of sleep each night when they were around 50 years old had an increased likelihood of developing long-term conditions such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Getting sufficient rest was shown to enhance overall well-being and decrease desires for unhealthy habits.

3. Exercising daily

Shah incorporates a blend of exercises into his daily regimen: he dedicates 70% to strength training and 30% to cardiovascular activities, along with some stretching sessions. Additionally, Shah ensures he stands up and moves around at least once every 45 minutes to prevent extended periods of sitting down.

Experts concur that integrating both aerobic activities and strength training is associated with extended life spans and decreased likelihood of diseases.

4. Reinstating testosterone to normal levels

Shah found out his testosterone levels were unusually low for someone his age, which he tackled with hormone treatment along with adopting healthier lifestyle choices.

Men with low testosterone may experience tiredness, emotional ups and downs, decreased sex drive, and weight gain around the midsection, as stated by the Cleveland Clinic. Although hormonal treatment can be beneficial, specialists suggest several natural methods to boost these levels, such as maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and steering clear of alcoholic beverages and substances.

Shah stated that his current focus is on assisting individuals to extend their lifespans. He aims to transform the medical approach from being reactionary to preventive, concentrating on maintaining overall wellness rather than addressing illnesses after they occur.