CA finalist Dhruv Aneja had always been focused on academics, but in March 2024, his health forced him to pause. At 125kg, even sitting for 15 minutes to prepare for his CA Intermediate exams felt like a struggle. That was his turning point. Dhruv decided he didn’t want his academic success to come at the cost of his health. What followed was not a fad diet or a quick-fix plan, but a steady transformation that helped him shed 45kg and regain balance in life.Here’s what we need to know about Dhruv’s weight loss journey.
Eating protein first changed everything
“One of the first things I learned was meal sequencing. I started eating protein first in every meal, followed by fibre, carbs, and fats. This small switch had a big impact. It kept me full for longer, controlled cravings, and gave me the steady energy I needed to study for long hours. Instead of cutting food groups, I simply changed the order of eating, and it worked like magic.”
Saying goodbye to sugar and refined carbs
“I realised that sugar and refined carbs were draining me. Every time I had them, I felt sluggish, and my focus dropped. So, I cut them out step by step, no packaged snacks, no sweetened drinks, and no mindless munching. Surprisingly, once I got past the initial cravings, I didn’t miss them. My body felt lighter, and my mind clearer. That was when I understood how deeply food affects mood and productivity.”
Image credit: Dhruv Aneja
Walking after meals became non-negotiable
“Instead of scrolling on my phone after eating, I made it a rule to walk for 15 minutes after every meal. It wasn’t about burning calories; it was about digestion, clearing my head, and avoiding that heavy, sleepy feeling. Those short walks became my reset button. Over time, they improved my metabolism and even reduced late-night hunger.”
Breaking the snacking habit
“I used to snack out of boredom, stress, or just because food was there. Cutting snacks between meals was tough at first, but it taught me discipline. I started respecting hunger signals. Proper meals with protein and fibre kept me satisfied, and I didn’t feel the need to graze all day. This single change saved me from unnecessary calories and gave my body the space to use energy efficiently.”
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Fitting the gym into study breaks
“Once these habits became natural, I added gym workouts. I didn’t treat the gym as a punishment; it became a reward during my study breaks. Even on hectic days, 30-40 minutes of strength training gave me energy and boosted my confidence. Slowly, I saw my body change, not just in weight but also in strength. From struggling to move around at 125kg, I now feel strong enough to balance studies, articleship, and fitness.”
The biggest transformation was beyond the scale
“Dropping from 52 inches to a 32-inch waist was visible proof, but the real win was mental and emotional. I no longer felt trapped in my body. I learned that consistency, not shortcuts, makes all the difference. If I could manage weight loss while preparing for one of India’s toughest exams, anyone balancing ambition with health can find their own rhythm too.”“This journey taught me that everything starts in the mind. It’s not about finding time, it’s about making time. Not about perfection, but about consistency. Meal by meal, rep by rep, day by day. To anyone reading this and waiting for the “right time” this is it! Start small. Stay consistent. Whether you’re chasing academic success, career goals, or a healthier life, know this: You don’t have to sacrifice one for the other.“Disclaimer: This story reflects the personal journey of Dhruv Aneja and the changes that worked for him. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Anyone considering major lifestyle or diet changes should consult a qualified healthcare professional.
