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Achal Agarwal Loses 37kg, Reverses Lifestyle Diseases & Gets Healthier With GOQii

Achal AgarwalWhen we think of weight loss, the first thing that comes to mind is to eat less and exercise. Theoretically, this is the right way to go about it. But, this is not as easy as it sounds. It requires a great level of determination and willpower. However, once the decision to succeed is made, you will achieve your goal. Roadblocks in fitness and health can come in many ways – excuses, laziness, busy etc. Today, we bring to you one such story of determination and will power from our player Achal Agarwal.   

Life Before GOQii 

Achal Agarwal, 42, based in Noida, handles operations for a large German MNC in India as its COO. Before joining GOQii, he was overweight, weighing around 121 kg. Due to being overweight, he had developed medical conditions such as Diabetes, High Lipids (Cholesterol), Stomach Problems (Acidity, constipation) and Fatty liver. His waist was 44 inches. 

“I had all sorts of issues. I was totally ignoring my health. I was doing nothing. Stress levels were high and I needed my drink daily,” says Achal. After having severe palpitations and the scare of COVID-19, he decided that he had to take care of his own health. 

Joining GOQii & Making A Lifestyle Change 

After he bought the GOQii Balance, a smart weight scale, he found a coupon code and downloaded the GOQii App. When he explored the app, he found various health services. He came across the personalized coaching service, and took it up. 

He says that the Coach’s knowledge helped him bring about necessary changes in his diet and exercise. He says that, “The Coach has been very motivating and she has been there all along trying to find out if I am doing well. GOQii has been very helpful and I think a health coach is more than enough for one to follow and get better.”

The changes brought about by Achal Agarwal’s coach included: 

  • Basic walk to complete 6k steps a day (later he began completing 15k steps daily) 
  • Increased water intake and cutting down on tea intake 
  • Avoid maida and processed foods 
  • Having multigrain roti 
  • Increasing fruit, vegetable and protein intake 
  • Stopping sugar and alcohol completely 
  • Practicing Pranayama to reduce stress 

Achal says that his best stress buster now is walking – he loves it! He even conducts his meetings at work on walks, completing 20k steps on a daily basis. He further adds that, “The journey has not been easy but it’s been fun.” He further adds that his coach has been extremely understanding and has worked out everything around his schedule. He used to do stringent workouts and the coach introduced pre and post workout meals and that helped. His GOQii Coach has been regularly advising him on dietary changes. What Achal likes the best about coaching is that it is non-intrusive.

Thanks to all the lifestyle modifications suggested by his GOQii Coach, in the last 10 months, he lost close to 37kg. His Current weight is 83.2kg and his waist size has reduced by 7 inches. His HbA1c reduced from 7.9% to 5.1%. His Cholesterol levels lowered as well as his fasting sugar. 

Achal Agarwal has now become a health mentor to a lot of his colleagues. He has been sharing tips with his employees and co-workers and many of whom have managed to get on a healthier path. A fine example of this can be seen in Sushma Mishra who has been able to lose 8kg in the last couple of months. She says, “I never expected I could also get healthy, do exercises and lose weight. But, with the small tips that Achal Sir gave, I followed them and it’s helping me. He is such an inspiration and a role model to all of us”.  He has also been recommending people to download the GOQii app and use it.

To know more about his journey, check out this session of GOQii Health Talks where he spoke to our Founder & CEO Vishal Gondal about his changes, challenges and more! 

What Does His Coach Have To Say About Achal Aggarwal?

Achal Agarwal is one such player who is very disciplined, dedicated, and maintains consistency with any habits that were suggested by me. He was always very sincere from the beginning and never missed his daily workout and healthy diet. The player came on board in Nov 2020 with medical conditions like Diabetes, High Lipids (Cholesterol), uric acid, high CRP levels, stomach problems (Acidity, constipation) and Fatty liver.

We slowly introduced small changes as mentioned above. In the last 10 months Achal’s progress has been tremendous! Apart from weight loss and his vitals returning to normal, Achal says that his complete change of mindset towards health and fitness have been amazing! 

Does Achal Agarwal’s story inspire you? Do you want to make a change? Subscribe for GOQii’s Personalized coaching now and speak to a certified GOQii Coach: https://goqiiapp.page.link/bsr

For more inspiring stories, check out Healthy Reads. 

#BeTheForce 

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Tired All The Time? Start With These Superfoods

superfoods

Do you feel tired all the time? Do you wish for sleep or rest more often than you should? There are a wide range of causes that trigger tiredness and these include medical issues such as a thyroid disorder, heart disease, diabetes, etc. The lifestyle related causes include alcohol or drug abuse, lack of regular exercise, exertion, jet lag, large meals et al. Thankfully, there are few superfoods that can help us to overcome it.

Which Superfoods Can Help With Tiredness? 

Superfoods are high in nutritional density and provide a substantial amount of nutrients with low calories. They are high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They can re-energise you. Try these superfoods to overcome tiredness! 

  1. Chia Seeds: These tiny seeds are packed with nutrients. They are a good source of Omega -3 fatty acids, protein, iron, calcium and fiber. They are an excellent source of antioxidants. When soaked in water, they absorb water and expand 10x their size and help us feel full for a longer time. We can add it to smoothies, shakes or have it with water.
  2. Fruits: such as Watermelon contain 90% of water, have vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that combat dehydration – one of the reasons for tiredness. It also has amino acid L-citrulline which can help reduce muscle soreness. Bananas are a good source of potassium, magnesium, vitamin B, vitamin C, fiber, antioxidants and phytonutrients. They provide ample amounts of energy. Avocado as well, is a powerhouse of energy with vitamins such as B, C and E, minerals like folate and potassium, monounsaturated fats and help keep a control on blood sugar spikes as well. 
  3. Kale: This leafy vegetable is a storehouse of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. It is a good source of iron which carries oxygen to our tissues and cells – much needed for us to thrive. It is an amazing source of calcium, folate and vitamin B. Kale is a low density food which aids weight loss and obesity that are linked to tiredness.
  4. Almonds: are a good source of protein, fiber and healthy fats. Almonds have vitamin B, which helps convert food into energy. It also contains magnesium which helps us fight muscle fatigue. A handful of almonds are a good mid-meal.
  5. Dates: are excellent sources of energy. They are high in carbs which provide instant energy. It is packed with fiber, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, zinc and iron. It’s an amazing source of antioxidants like flavonoids, carotenoids and phenolic acid. It’s sweet in nature so can be used as a sweetener.
  6. Spinach: is a powerhouse of nutrients, It contains vitamins like C, K B6, B9 and E, minerals like potassium, magnesium, folic acid, iron and calcium. Adequate amounts of vitamins and minerals are essential for energy production. Low levels of iron can cause fatigue.
  7. Egg: Do you remember the slogan “Sunday ho ya Monday Roj khao ande”? It’s actually true, as an egg is an excellent source of high biological value protein and healthy fats which can keep us energized. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals which are vitamin D and B12, iron and choline. 
  8. Dark chocolate: is a great source of iron, copper, magnesium, zinc, phosphorus and flavanols. Is a rich source of theobromine which is a stimulant that works the same as caffeine. Polyphenols in dark chocolate have positive effects on serotonin levels which helps us to lift up the mood and energy levels. 
  9. Quinoa: It’s a grain crop which is high in carbs, protein, fiber, manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, copper, iron, zinc and folate. It is also a good source of vitamin B and E, and various antioxidants. Although quinoa is high in carbs, it has a low glycaemic index, so it releases energy slowly and sustains for a longer time.
  10. Sattu: It is generally made by Bengal gram (Chana), which means it is high in protein. It is a low cost, so-called poor man’s protein. It Is rich in fiber, calcium, iron, manganese, magnesium and low in sodium. It provides instant energy with a cooling effect. So it’s best consumed during summer. 

Try these foods in your diet especially in morning hours to boost your energy levels and fight tiredness. With these we need to focus on 20 to 30 min regular exercise, balanced meals, adequate sleep, proper hydration and stress management. Do consult your doctor before trying any of these superfoods. 

For more on nutrition, check out Healthy Reads. If you want to know more about superfoods, nutrition or get a meal plan for a health goal, speak to an expert by subscribing for personalized health coaching here: https://goqiiapp.page.link/bsr

#BeTheForce 

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11 Reasons Why You Should Include An Avocado In Your Diet

avocado

Avocado is a pear shaped, stone fruit, grown specifically in warm climates. It is also called as butter fruit in India because of its creamy and buttery texture. It is a unique super food. As most fruits are high in Carbohydrates, Avocado is high in healthy fats, being the only fruit which provides substantial amounts of healthy monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) that do not stack up as calories but help in the lubrication of joints and aid weight loss as well. 

How Can An Avocado Improve Your Health? 

  1. Immensely nutritious: They are naturally nutrient-dense and contain a wide variety of nutrients, including 20 different vitamins and minerals. Approximately 100 gms of Avocado contains 160 calories, 14.7g of fat, 7mg sodium, Carbohydrates: 8.5g of which fiber is 6.7g (net carb is 1.8 g appx), 6.7g fiber, 0.7g of sugars and 2g of protein. They also contain other nutrients such as Vit K, Vit E, Vit C, Folate, Potassium and some B vitamins. 
  2. Is a heart healthy fruit: Avocados are rich in antioxidants and monounsaturated fats which keep the heart healthy and reduce the risk of stroke. Eating avocado can also regulate LDL and HDL cholesterol levels, as well as blood triglycerides.
  3. Helps regulate Blood Pressure: Avocados are a very good source of potassium. It is low in sodium, contains 3 times more potassium than banana and helps control blood pressure.
  4. Aids weight loss: It is highly satiating which keeps us fuller for longer, delaying hunger pangs.
  5. Good for the eyes: Avocado is high in Beta carotene and antioxidants which helps improve eyesight. It also contains lutein and zeaxanthin which lowers or delays the risk of cataract.
  6. Helps absorb nutrients: Avocados can act as a “nutrient booster” by aiding the increase in absorption of fat-soluble nutrients such as vitamins A, D, K and E. Say, if we add Avocado or avocado oil in a bowl of salad or salsa, it would improve its antioxidants absorption.  
  7. Avocados are great for pregnant mothers and also boosts foetal development: It is high in folate, potassium, fiber, monounsaturated fats, and lipid-soluble antioxidants — all of these improves maternal health, quality of breast milk and healthy foetal development.
  8. Packed with Fibers: An avocado is a high fiber food with approximately 6-7 grams per 100 gms of fruit. Fiber has important benefits for weight loss, relief in constipation and improving metabolic health. It also lowers the risk of colon cancer. 
  9. May prevent cancer: Some studies show that a high-MUFA diet can protect against the risk of certain cancers, including prostate, colon, stomach, pancreatic, and cervical cancers. Avocados are not only beneficial in preventing cancers, they may also have a role in cancer treatment. In fact, some researchers have shown that the phytochemicals in avocados may selectively inhibit cancer cell and pre-cancerous cell growth.
  10. Improves Arthritic pain: Saponins found in avocados are associated with relief in knee pain or hip pain occurring due to osteoarthritis.
  11. Keeps the skin healthy and glowing: It is rich in vitamin E and C – both of these are essential in keeping the skin healthy and glowing.

Lastly, Avocados are easily available and incredibly delicious. They can be paired with anything from salads to soups, smoothies and various other recipes. To keep a cut avocado fresh, you can add lemon juice to it which slows down the oxidation process, preventing it from turning brown. 

So what are you waiting for? If any of these benefits appealed to you, head out and stock up on your avocado supply but do consult your doctor, nutritionist or dietitian before making any changes to your diet. Do leave your thoughts in the comments below.

For more on nutrition, check out Healthy Reads or ask an expert by subscribing for GOQii’s personalized health coaching here: https://goqiiapp.page.link/bsr

Eat healthy and #BeTheForce 

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Suneeta Mane Goes From Stagnant To Unstoppable!

Suneeta Mane

Health conditions arising out of lifestyle or hormonal imbalances can seem like a death sentence. These health conditions not only affect your wellbeing but also your mental health and it can seem like a bottomless hole you can’t crawl out of. But that’s not true. If you are determined, you can not only crawl out of your predicament but go way beyond that to serve as an inspiration for others. Our Player Suneeta Mane is a shining example of what you can achieve with consistent efforts, determination and lifestyle changes! 

Life Before GOQii

Suneeta Mane is a working professional based in Mumbai. As she works for a large corporation, her job is quite stressful. Along with the work-related stress, she also struggled with stagnant weight, inch gain, fatty liver, acidity, constipation, skin irritation, acne, bloating and hypothyroidism for which she was under heavy medication. She was also trying to manage her PCOS. 

She first encountered GOQii when a friend requested she gift him a tracker. “I was also keen on getting one tracker for myself but, I guess, I was not ready then,” she said. “In 2017, I was diagnosed with Hypothyroid and was put on 50mg Thyronome tabs. But this thyroid created havoc in my life – it came with additional problems like acne, fatigue, constant irritation and I found my overall health deteriorating. Medicines gave me temporary relief, but after that, the symptoms would erupt again. I had never eaten a tab for any minor ailment either. I hate consuming tabs but here I was – I had to eat tablets if I wanted relief. To add to all this, my work is also stressful. I had to do something to normalise my life. So after a year, I joined GOQii in 2018.” 

Making Lifestyle Changes and Going Beyond! 

When Suneeta Mane subscribed for personalized health coaching, her immediate goals were to lead a healthy lifestyle to improve her condition, get rid of medication and get back to normalcy. Her GOQii Coach Yogita Sharma prescribed alternative methods, a diet plan and some “me time” which would help her relieve stress. 

“Slowly within a month’s time, I began finding relief. The Acne had reduced as well. The best part about GOQii is that the problems in my health were being addressed from their roots,” she said. 

Her GOQii Coach Yogita Sharma suggested very basic lifestyle and dietary changes which included: 

  • Timely meals and portion control 
  • 3 hour gaps between dinner and sleep 
  • Fermented Rice and/or vegetable juice in the morning
  • Combination of Cardio and Strength workout 
  • Being active throughout the day 
  • Consuming at least 4L of water a day 
  • Including more fibre in meals along with a high protein diet 
  • Meditation, gratitude and affirmations along with yoga 

With a few more lifestyle changes, Suneeta Mane began seeing positive results. She also claims to be a die hard fan of GOQii’s Emotional Wellness Expert Divya Thampi. She watches one of her videos everyday on GOQii Play. She says, “Divya Thampi’s sessions on Mental Health have really helped me in bettering my mental health as well as my personal development. Her sessions on stress management, setting realistic goals, etc. have been very useful!” 

Apart from lifestyle changes and her interactions with her GOQii Coach, she also took Doctor Consultations and says that they were fantastic. She had once developed an allergy and the GOQii Doctor prescribed simple suggestions that helped her instantly. 

The Results Of Her Dedication & Determination 

Over the period of 4 years, Suneeta Mane managed to lose 6 inches around her waist and now weighs 56kg. As per her latest reports, her Thyroid levels are well within range and she doesn’t suffer from Fatty Liver any more. 

Constipation, Bloating and Acidity issues are no longer there and she has no issues related to PCOS. Her skin is also clearer. Her overall energy levels have improved and she feels fresh throughout the day. Apart from major achievements in physical health, she also said that her mental health has improved significantly and she has a new positive outlook on life. 

  • Her achievements during this time are uncountable. Some of them include: 
  • 8 days trek in Kedarnath (whereas before, she had only started with 2km walks) 
  • Trekking the Sahyadri Hills in Maharashtra 
  • Indulged in 300ft rappelling near Malshej Ghat 
  • Won 2 beauty pageants while competing against women as young as 18 years while she was 33. She says that no one could guess her age. The most recent one being around December 2021 – Fashion Icon – it was held in Thane. 
  • Prior to that, she won the title of Maharashtra’s Goodwill Ambassador in October 2021. As a goodwill ambassador, she had to raise 1 Lakh – but she managed to raise INR 1.10k for Delhi based Ladli foundation and this fund was used towards building more awareness about Menstrual Hygiene. 

Giving Back To Society 

That is not all to her, as she and her brother also run a social organisation named after her mother. It’s called Pad-Mini Foundation and it’s based out of Airoli in Navi Mumbai. They have been investing in this organisation with their own money. 

The foundation works towards Sanitary Napkin awareness and distribution, skilled based classes for underprivileged girls and women in and around the Airoli Slums. According to Suneeta Mane, “Skilled courses makes one financially independent, even though they do not get education, also menstrual hygiene is a must for women.”  

From our interactions, we have learned that Suneeta is not just a name, she is “Unstoppable Suneeta” as time and time again, she has proved herself. With every event she has bounced back stronger, with an even stronger zeal to learn and try new things.

She says that the GOQii ecosystem is a perfect gift to give! All the coaches have been great, and her current Coach Yogita Sharma has been super helpful. Recently, she spoke about her Healthy Story at length with our Founder & CEO Vishal Gondal as a part of GOQii Health Stories. You can watch the entire conversation here: 

Well, we hope Suneeta’s Healthy Story inspires you to beat the odds, get motivated and make a positive lifestyle change! For more inspiring stories, check out Healthy Reads. 

To subscribe for personalized health coaching and get the right guidance and motivation from an expert, click here: https://goqiiapp.page.link/bsr

#BeTheForce 

From Terminal Illness To Complete Wellness! Ananda Mukherjee Health Story

As we observe World Cancer Day under the powerful theme ‘United by Unique’ (2025-2027)**, we are reminded that every individual’s journey with cancer is distinct, yet united by shared resilience, hope, and the collective fight against this disease. This theme places people at the centre of care and their stories at the heart of the […]