Our shopper for the week is founder of Ozzor Real Estate, Shaneel Dayal, who is also known as Shane Dayal.
Despite his day-to-day busy schedules, Shaneel says he ensures his kitchen top is always stocked with fresh produce.
He says since they’re an Indo Fijian family, it is obvious they eat a lot of vegetables and something they prioritise on their weekly budget.
“Suva market always has the best fresh vegetables, plus some seasonal ones as well.
“I go on Saturdays if I wake up early and am not suffering from a hangover — otherwise, I try weekdays when it’s less crowded,” he said.
“Healthy living plays a significant role in my life,” he said.
He encourages healthy food choices such as smoothies, soups, vegetable curries, and juices, avoiding overly processed foods and maintaining a balanced diet to prevent lifestyle diseases like diabetes and hypertension, which have affected family members in the past.
Shaneel also highlights the importance of moderation in alcohol consumption and recommends balancing social drinking with physical activity and fresh juicing.
He maintains an active fitness routine. He trains at FNU gym three mornings a week, incorporating treadmill runs and strength training with professional trainers.
“I go to the FNU gym on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, usually starting at 6am.
“On my better days (when I’m not feeling lazy), I begin with a 3km warm-up run on the treadmill, then work with my trainers, Bill or Dan from Fitness Mechanic Fiji, focusing mainly on strength training,” he said.
On alternate days, Shaneel says he runs 10km in the afternoons and occasionally attends Pilates or boxing classes to stay fit and energised. “On Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, I do my usual 10km runs in the afternoons. I also mix in other workouts from time to time, such as Pilates with Adlene, Afterburn Fitness (which I haven’t been to recently), and Boxit Up Fitness, where I do some serious punching on the bags – a great way to release energy and stay fit.”
Shaneel shared that gardening also plays a major role in his physical activity, especially at his office, where he grows flowers and vegetables.
“I don’t have much garden space at home, just a small backyard. However, I do have a lot of space in the backyard of my office, where I’ve started growing some vegetables but mostly flowers,” he said.
Shaneel said tending to them helps him stay active and keeps him moving, which is an important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
He insists that investing in plants and flowers is another great way to stay active.
He said gardening not only beautifies your space and provides fresh air and oxygen, but also helps you stay physically active. “Plus, there’s a sense of happiness that comes from seeing your flowers bloom.”
Shaneel’s advice to shoppers is to be mindful of reading nutrition labels, choosing fresh seasonal produce, and opting for healthier alternatives like low-carb options, nuts, and whole grains.
He stresses planning your grocery list to avoid unhealthy impulse buys.
“My advice to shoppers is to be mindful and intentional about what you put in your trolley.
“Focus on fresh, whole foods like vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains, and try to limit processed and packaged items.” Shaneel said when you’re in the supermarket, pay attention to:
- Nutrition labels – check sugar, salt, and fat content;
- Freshness – choose produce that’s in season and looks vibrant;
- Healthy swaps – for example, go for low-carb or whole-grain options, natural snacks like nuts instead of chips, and low-sugar beverages;
- Balance – it’s OK to treat yourself occasionally, but try to maintain a good mix of nutritious staples and occasional indulgences.
“Also, plan your shopping – having a list and sticking to it helps avoid impulse buys, especially unhealthy items.
“Remember, small consistent choices in your shopping habits go a long way toward overall health,” he said.