Happy birthday, Bhaichung Bhutia! Revealing the footballer's fitness secrets
What's the story
Former India football team captain Bhaichung Bhutia celebrates his birthday every year on December 15.
Known as the "Sikkimese Sniper," the player has made the nation proud throughout his career by taking home more than 100 cups and trophies, as well as the esteemed Padma Shri.
Although retired, Bhutia still keeps his fitness on top and engages in a disciplined workout and diet routine.
Fitness
Bhutia eats by 6:00 pm; sleeps by 8:30 pm
During an interview with The Telegraph, Bhutia shared that he believes in eating healthy and exercising daily.
He revealed that when he is in his hometown in Sikkim, he finishes his dinner by 6:00 pm and hits the sack by 8:30 pm.
The player admits to being a morning person as he wakes up by 5:00 am and indulges in walking and mountain biking.
Exercises
He also enjoys yoga and running
Bhutia's fitness routine also lays heavy emphasis on yoga and running.
The player told Influencer Health that he practices yoga and devotes an hour to it daily. He further shared that he does some light stretching exercises and then goes for a run.
"When I used to play, I used to do more exercises, now I mostly do yoga," he added.
Diet
The former football champion avoids sugar and instead eats honey
It has been quite some time since Bhutia has gone sugar-free. During an interaction with The Telegraph, he mentioned that he enjoys honey instead as it doesn't only improve flavor but amps up his energy levels too.
"In Sikkim, we have our honey hive. We get special honey there called putka, small and rare bees, very expensive," he said.
Food
The player prefers organic food, thanks to his farming background
During the same interview, Bhutia shared that he has always been a fan of organic food and only eats that because he hails from a farming background.
"We come from a remote village where farming was the only source of income. We have always grown our own vegetables. I was lucky that way," he concluded.
Additionally, he prefers home-cooked food and avoids processed offerings.
Meal
Here's what Bhutia eats throughout the day
According to sources, the football freak starts his day with a glass of warm water. For breakfast, he usually savors butter with brown bread.
His lunch typically includes dal, rice, sabji, and chapati, along with a serving of salad.
He also loves milk and drinks one glass daily to stay healthy.
Fresh fruits and nuts are his go-to snacks.