The Gastroenterologists with MNGI Digestive Health get to know so much about their patients, but the patients don’t always get to know much about their doctors. This blog series provides a chance to learn a little bit more about the caring physicians who are caring for you.
Today, we are introducing you to Dr. Naresh Gunaratnam. Dr. Gunaratnam is a newer member of the MNGI team but has been specializing in GI for more than 25 years. He continues to show his dedication to the lifelong care of his patients. Now you can learn more about him and his journey through medicine!
What made you go into your area of medical expertise?
I became interested in obesity and metabolic health because it is the root cause of most of the diseases that we see in gastroenterology. Everything from gastroesophageal reflux, fatty liver, cancers of the esophagus, colon, pancreas, and liver is linked to obesity and metabolic syndrome. Obesity is also the root cause of diseases that kill most Americans, including diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure. If we can fix obesity, then all other diseases linked to obesity will also be fixed.
How did you become interested in gastroenterology?
I became interested in gastroenterology when I was 17 years old. My uncle is a gastroenterologist, and I went to watch him do procedures for a day and I thought that it was quite interesting. At that time, I was into video games, and I thought, "Wow, this guy plays video games all day long, maybe I want to do that as well".
What do you like best about working for MNGI?
MNGI is very dedicated to quality patient care and treating patients respectfully. This has attracted many individuals, both healthcare professionals and support staff, committed to fulfilling that mission. It is wonderful to work being surrounded by friendly, caring, and empathic people.
How long have you worked at MNGI?
I have worked at MNGI for over a year and a half now and it has been very exciting to be part of the important work that they do and to lead the development of the MNGI Health 360 program for patients looking to improve their metabolic health. I had previously worked at a GI practice in Ann Arbor, Michigan, for more than 25 years.
What is your favorite thing about living in Minnesota?
I love the outdoors, and there are so many opportunities in Minnesota to interact with nature. So, I am excited to explore parks, the lakes and learn some hobbies like cross-country skiing.
Outside of work, what do you like to do for fun?
I like to read; exercise and I am a huge fan of University Michigan athletics and the New York Mets.
Where is your hometown?
I grew up in a small town in upstate New York called Cambridge with a population of 1200 people.
What is your favorite ice cream flavor?
Coffee
What is your favorite movie?
Sound of Music. My daughter was obsessed with the movie when she was 2 years old, and I think I have seen it at least 25 times.
What is your favorite vacation you ever took?
I help run an orphanage in Sri Lanka, and whenever I go back there, I feel happy and relaxed. That is my happy place.
What is your favorite memory with your family or friends?
My 2 kids, wife, and up to 60 friends used to take an annual volunteer trip to the orphanage in Sri Lanka. We had so much fun, and we all felt like we were helping people during those trips. I have great memories of those trips that we took together.
