He has always been known for his inclination towards fitness. Now, actor-entrepreneur Suniel Shetty has put his weight behind Biohacker, a DIY healthcare venture. The brainchild of fitness enthusiast Lalit Dharmani, Biohacker is headquartered at Chembur in Mumbai and follows the well-known principle of human enhancement or human health optimisation named biohacking, which involves making incremental changes to one's body, diet and lifestyle to improve health, performance and well-being. The Telegraph caught up with Shetty for a chat.
What made you want to back Biohacker?
Lalit Dharmani has been working on the Biohacking plan for the last four years. He has experimented with everything on himself. Being an extremely sincere and conservative businessman, I thought it best to go with him. I believe in choosing the natural manner of biohacking and after constantly understanding what troubles me, whether it's allergies or mental fatigue. I strive to improve these aspects in my own body. Along the way, I have realised that regardless of my age, I can preserve energy and flexibility by following simple and fundamental practices in life and maintaining consistency.
You have always been fighting fit. Has there been any one foolproof formula for you regarding fitness that has worked for you all these years?
I maintain a simple and consistent routine to enhance my well-being. This includes regular exercise, dedicating time to myself, monitoring my food intake, avoiding certain items like white foods and gluten, and mostly consuming lactose-free milk. I control my salt intake and minimise sugar consumption. These basic habits, combined with regular exercise and staying active, play a crucial role. I am particular about taking time off on Sundays and limiting my work till 6pm in the evening. Following a set routine for meals, be it breakfast, lunch or dinner, is essential.
In the times we live in, what kind of holistic measures do you think every individual, in a very simple and effective way, can adopt to include some level of fitness in their lives?
Anyone can incorporate some level of fitness into their lives. If we can make time for brushing, bathing and work, why can't we allocate time for fitness? It could be as simple as walking to the office or taking the stairs. If the workplace is not far, walking back home or getting off a couple of stops earlier and walking the remaining distance. Even in a cab, stopping a couple of miles before and walking the rest can make a difference. Engaging in a sport, weekend hikes, gardening or any activity you enjoy can be a form of exercise. The key is to do it consistently.
Many people tend to let go of their health and fitness after a certain age. What do you suggest as the biggest motivator for them?
Several individuals tend to get caught up in family and kids' responsibilities. However, it is essential to understand that living a happy and active lifestyle with our children becomes only possible when we prioritise exercise and make it a regular practice. Exercise doesn't necessarily mean going to the gym; it can be as simple as playing a sport or joining our children for a swim or a day out. It is about being mentally strong, committed and consistent which will greatly benefit us in various aspects of life.
Is there a contemporary or someone from the younger lot of actors whose dedication to fitness inspires you?
Many young individuals are extremely focused and dedicated when it comes to their bodies. For them, the body is everything. When you observe discipline, whether it's Hrithik (Roshan), Tiger (Shroff), or even Ahaan (Shetty, son) at home, the younger generation is incredibly focused. They have a clear understanding of their preferences, training and diet choices. They exhibit remarkable dedication and determination.