Losing the Inches

A recent study reports that nearly 135 million individuals are obese in India. The extended working hours, sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy food habits, medications and even genetics are serving as the root cause for India to evolve as a global capital of obesity.

Google trends report that India stands second in searching information on bariatric surgery and the number of people undergoing bariatric procedures has escalated from just 200 in 2004 to over 20,000 in 2019, according to the Obesity Surgery Society of India.

Factors like genetics, thyroid, inability to exercise, laziness or lack of options, makes people to opt for easy methods of weight loss.

“People are health conscious nowadays, but a large amount of them suffer with high obesity problems,” says Dr Deepak Subramanian, Senior Consultant and Clinical Lead, MGM Health Care.

Though these procedures seem to be simpler than the traditional method of weight loss, it brings in a bundle of complications and trouble along with the surgery like infection, excessive bleeding, breathing issues as its short term problems or side effects.

“Of course, every surgery has side effects but it is definitely controllable. Identifying the right method and following the protocol meticulously will cause no harm,” Deepak adds.

A person is not diagnosed with obesity overnight, but it steadily builds up over a period of time. Instead of ending up in such atrocious scenario, one can opt for regular physical activity and make it a point to spend about 150 to 300 minutes of intense workout in a week. Sticking to a healthy and balanced diet would not only prevent weight gain but also present as a good health bonus.

One can lose weight through diet and exercise, meditation, endoscopy and the last option is bariatric surgery. Endoscopy gives a temporary result whereas the bariatric surgery is a permanent solution.

Drinking herbal teas may also improve weight loss and help fight belly fat. Green Tea and Lemon tea have been the favorites of many when it comes to diet.

“Surgeries were always there for weight loss but people are aware only now due to the increase in awareness and fitness conscience. Obesity leads to multiple problems like heart attack, diabetes and hypertension. Seeking non-surgical methods will not work”, says Dr Jayanthy Ravindran.

“If somebody is 30kgs above the ideal weight, the only solution is to go for a bariatric surgery to avoid, kidney failure and heart failure. And yes there is a threat, but it is better to risk with these surgeries rather than fall to organ failures,” she adds.

Limiting junk food and avoiding untimely food or food when not hungry are the most vital points to be noted. Lastly a healthy sleep habit with scheduled sleep time would not only avoid obesity but also keep other health issues at bay. Many socialites and celebrities who opt for slimming treatments and diet plans now host parties to discuss their progress.