Book review
Book: Own Your Body: A Doctor’s Life-saving Tips by Dr. Shiv K Sarin
Published by: Bloomsbury
Price: Rs 499
By Ashutosh Kumar Thakur
“Own Your Body: A Doctor’s Life-saving Tips” by Dr Shiv K Sarin is a comprehensive guide that offers invaluable insights into maintaining good health and preventing ailments. Divided into six easy-to-understand sections, the book covers various aspects of health, with a particular focus on the liver.
Dr Sarin, a renowned hepatologist and gastroenterologist, distils his decades of medical experience into 21 engaging anecdotes, emphasising the importance of lifestyle choices in determining one’s health. Through relatable examples and clear language, he highlights how simple changes in habits can lead to significant improvements in overall well-being.
The book addresses common health issues such as fatty liver, obesity, and genetic predispositions, advocating for preventive healthcare rather than corrective measures. Dr Sarin emphasises the need for education and personal responsibility in maintaining good health, stressing that institutions can only provide frameworks, but individuals must take charge of their own bodies.
One of the key messages of the book is the importance of understanding the connection between lifestyle choices and health outcomes. Dr Sarin explains how factors like diet, exercise, and alcohol consumption can impact liver health and overall well-being. He simplifies the path to preventive health habits, emphasising that medicine should be a last resort. Drawing parallels between the human body and a car, he highlights our meticulous care for machines while neglecting our bodies. He also writes the need to view our bodies as valuable assets, deserving of pride, care, and maintenance. By shifting cultural perspectives to prioritise self-care and adopting proactive health measures, individuals can better safeguard their well-being and longevity.
In today’s fast-paced world, prioritising health and well-being is paramount. A healthy lifestyle involves maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, coupled with regular physical activity such as walking or yoga. Prioritising hydration, sufficient sleep, stress management, and routine health check-ups are crucial. Limiting alcohol and tobacco use, fostering social connections, practicing gratitude, and mindful eating further bolster overall well-being. By adhering to these practices, individuals can take proactive steps towards better health, ensuring a happier and more fulfilling life.
Through anecdotes and case studies, Dr Sarin offers practical advice and strategies for readers to improve their health. He encourages readers to pay attention to their waist circumference, avoid over-reliance on medication, and be mindful of the effects of alcohol on themselves and their children.
Dr Sarin’s expertise, combined with his accessible writing style, makes this book a valuable resource for individuals looking to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. Most importantly this book also reminds us that small, consistent changes can lead to significant improvements in our overall health and quality of life. By proactively managing lifestyle factors and adhering to preventive measures outlined in the book, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of disease and enhance their overall well-being. The book “Own Your Body: A Doctor’s Life-saving Tips ” is a must-read for anyone seeking to take control of their health and lead a fulfilling life.
(Ashutosh Kumar Thakur is a Bengaluru-based management professional, literary critic and curator)
