Zerodha’s Nithin Kamath shares what fitness enthusiasts should do to avoid stroke/ heart attack

Nithin Kamath's recent revelation about his encounter with a "mild stroke" serves as a reminder of the balance required for maintaining heart and brain health. As the CEO of Zerodha, Kamath's journey from fitness enthusiast to stroke survivor underlines crucial lessons from medical experts on safeguarding cardiovascular and cognitive well-being.

Attributing his stroke to a mix of stress, sleep deprivation, exhaustion, and excessive exercise, Kamath's experience highlights the significance of prioritising work-life balance, moderation in physical activity, and adequate rest. Hyderabad-based neurologist Dr Sudhir Kumar emphasises that even individuals like Kamath, very well known for their fitness, are not immune to cardiovascular risks posed by lifestyle factors.

Dr Deepak Krishnamurthy, a cardiologist at Kauvery Hospital in Bengaluru, said on X (formerly Twitter) and resonated with this sentiment, advocating for a balanced approach to work and leisure to mitigate the risk of cardiovascular events. He emphasises the detrimental impact of prolonged work hours on heart health, urging individuals to allocate time for relaxation and sleep.

Contrary to popular belief, Dr Divij Khetan emphasises that physical fitness does not equate to cardiovascular health, cautioning against the misconception that strenuous exercise alone guarantees protection against heart issues. Kamath's ordeal prompts a reevaluation of societal norms surrounding work ethic and health, challenging the notion that the relentless pursuit of professional success should come at the expense of well-being.

Kamath's advocacy for prioritising sleep aligns with medical experts' warnings about the impacts of sleep deprivation on overall health. His past tweets highlighting the correlation between sleep quality and cardiovascular health underscore the importance of raising awareness about an overall approach to well-being.




Amid Kamath's journey to recovery, medical professionals caution against relying on unverified influencers for medical advice. Dr CS Pramesh, a thoracic surgeon at Tata Memorial Hospital, admonishes against the dissemination of ill-researched recommendations, emphasising the need for scientifically sound guidance in matters of health.

In the wake of Kamath's stroke, the collective response from medical experts serves as a call to action for individuals to prioritise holistic self-care practices. From establishing boundaries between work and personal life to recognising the nuanced relationship between physical and mental well-being, Kamath's experience offers insights into safeguarding heart and brain health in today's world.