A New Approach to Obesity

For decades, BMI has been the standard tool for measuring obesity, but Indian doctors have recognized its limitations. Many individuals with excess body fat do not necessarily have a BMI over 30, meaning health risks often go undetected. The new definition, formulated by experts from the National Diabetes Obesity and Cholesterol Foundation (N-DOC), Fortis C-DOC Hospital, and the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), considers abdominal fat as a crucial factor.

According to The Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology, clinical obesity is now recognized as a chronic condition where excess fat negatively impacts organ function.  Scientific research highlights that visceral fat—fat stored around internal organs—poses a greater threat than fat in other areas. This has led Indian healthcare professionals to redefine obesity based on fat distribution rather than BMI alone.

A Lancet study from 2022 reported that nearly 70 million Indian adults are obese—44 million women and 26 million men. Childhood obesity is also rising, with 5.2 million obese girls and 7.3 million obese boys under the age of 19. Furthermore, 70% of India’s urban population is classified as overweight or obese, placing the country among the most affected globally. Additionally, 62 million diabetic Indians exhibit obesity-related traits, such as abdominal adiposity and ectopic fat deposition.

Lifestyle and the Caloric Imbalance

Modern lifestyles contribute significantly to India’s obesity crisis. Urbanization, fast food consumption, and a lack of physical activity have created an environment where calorie intake far exceeds energy expenditure. With the rise of processed and high-calorie foods, many Indians consume more than their daily requirement, leading to excessive fat accumulation.

Physical inactivity exacerbates this problem. Long hours at desks, reliance on digital entertainment, and reduced engagement in physical labor have collectively fueled weight gain. Despite the availability of gyms and fitness centers, participation remains low, further worsening the situation.

The Role of Protein and Muscle Mass

While excess fat accumulation is a concern, muscle mass and protein intake are often overlooked. Muscle plays a crucial role in metabolism, helping burn calories efficiently and reducing the risk of obesity-related diseases. Unfortunately, many Indians consume insufficient protein, leading to muscle loss and further metabolic decline.

Government and Public Initiatives

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged citizens to adopt healthier lifestyles. At the opening ceremony of the 38th National Games in Dehradun, he emphasized the importance of daily exercise and a balanced diet. He also recommended reducing monthly oil consumption by 10% to combat obesity.

Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, reinforced this message at a recent cycling event in Delhi, promoting physical activity as a critical tool against obesity. The Fit India Sundays on Cycle initiative at Major Dhyan Chand Stadium saw participation from doctors, nutritionists, and fitness enthusiasts, spreading awareness about the importance of exercise.

The Need for Immediate Action

Obesity is no longer just a warning sign for other diseases but a major health condition on its own. With rising obesity rates contributing to diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic disorders, lifestyle modifications are crucial.

To tackle this crisis, individuals must focus on maintaining a balanced diet rich in protein, engaging in regular physical activity, and building muscle mass to enhance metabolism. Healthcare professionals stress the importance of early intervention to prevent obesity from becoming an even bigger health challenge in India.

By redefining obesity and addressing the root causes, India can take significant steps toward improving public health and reversing the current trend of rising obesity rates.