PM Modi Warns Obesity Is India’s Next Big Health Crisis; Why India Can’t Afford To Ignore The Warning Signs | Health

Obesity In India. (Image: AI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has warned that obesity is emerging as a major challenge for our country. He further urged people to fight against it. Addressing the nation on its 79th Independence Day, PM Modi said that according to experts, one in every three persons would be obese in the coming years.

“While talking about fitness, I want to express a concern. Every family in the country should be concerned that obesity is becoming a major challenge for our country. We must protect ourselves from obesity,” he said.

He suggested that families to buy 10% less oil for cooking and also cut its usage by 10%.

What Is Obesity?

Obesity is becoming a global health emergency. According to a Lancet report, more than half of the world is overweight or obese adults live in just eight countries. Since 1990, obesity rates have more than doubled, affecting over 2 billion people. The growing crisis shows the urgent need for action to curb rising obesity levels and their long-term health consequences.

There are eight countries with the highest number of overweight or obese adults:

1. China – 402 million
2. India – 180 million
3. United States – 172 million
4. Brazil – 88 million
5. Russia – 71 million
6. Mexico – 58 million
7. Indonesia – 52 million
8. Egypt – 41 million

What Should Be Done?

The situation for now highlights the urgent need for immediate active. In fact, there should be effective policies put in place to combat obesity. Governments, healthcare professionals, and individuals must take proactive steps to promote healthier lifestyles through better nutrition, increased physical activity, and awareness campaigns. Without decisive action, the world is heading towards an unprecedented health crisis.

How To Find Out If You Are Obese?

To find out if you are obese, the most common method that people often rely on is by calculating your Body Mass Index (BMI). A BMI of 30 or higher generally indicates obesity.

Another method relies heavily on waist circumference. Meaning, having a waist circumference of more than 40 inches for men and more than 35 inches for women is considered high and can indicate increased health risks associated with obesity.

Risk Factors And Habits That Lead To Obesity

There are many risk factors that can contribute to obesity. While some of these are individual factors like knowledge, skills, and behaviors, others are in your environment, such as school, workplace, and neighborhood.

You may not be able to change all of your risk factors for obesity. However, knowing your risk is important to help you take steps to reaching that ideal weight and lowering your risk for obesity-related health problems. Some of the factors that directly contribute to obesity are:

• Lack Of Physical Activity: Lack of physical activity, combined with high amount of screen time, has been associated with a high body mass index (BMI).
• Unhealthy Eating Behaviours: Some unhealthy eating habits, like eating more calories than you use; consuming too much saturated fat; eating foods high in added sugar; can increase your risk of obesity.
• High Stress Levels: Long-term and even short-term stress can affect the brain and trigger your body to make hormones, such as cortisol, that control energy balances and hunger urges.
• Genetics: Researchers have found out that at least 15 genes influence obesity. Studies show that genetics may play a more important role in people with obesity than in people who are overweight.

Tips To Stay Fit And Shed Those Extra Kilos

The key is always a healthy and balanced lifestyle. It is very important that you incorporate certain healthy habits in your daily routine, including:

• Eating A Balanced Diet: Focus on whole, unprocessed foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Limit the intake of sugary drinks, processed foods, and unhealthy fats. Anything packaged should be avoided.
• Stay Active: Movement is the biggest gift. Engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity, such as walking, cycling or swimming, on most days of the week.
• Keep Portion Sizes In Check: Be mindful of portion sizes. This will help you in avoiding overeating, especially when you are dining out or consuming high-calorie foods.
• Get Enough Sleep: We often avoid this but this is very important. Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep per night.
• Hydrate Properly: Make sure you are drinking the right amount of water throughout the day. This will enhance your metabolism and prevent unnecessary snacking.

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