REIN IN OBESITY FIRST

REIN IN OBESITY FIRST

A study reveals that in cities, especially in north India, over 50% women are overweight owing to sedentary lifestyles, rich food, and lack of exercise- Fight against cervical cancer (FACC)

Obesity has reached epidemic proportions in India, with morbid obesity affecting 5% of the country’s population. Obesity in urban Indian women aged over 35 has become a serious concern for the medical fraternity. Sedentary city lifestyles, rich food, a lack of exercise and a gradual slowing down of the metabolic rate are playing havoc with the waist-to hip circumference. A study reveals that in cities, especially in north India, over 50% women are overweight.

While most women look at obesity as being a physically unattractive and cosmetic problem, what they overlook are the many related diseases

HIGH BLOOD

Pressure/hypertension 1/3 of all cases of high BP is associated with obesity

HEART DISEASE

Heart attack, congestive heart failure, sudden cardiac death, angina and abnormal heart rhythm is increased in women who are overweight or obese

OSTEOARTHRITIS

Obesity may be a major factor in the development of osteoarthritis, particularly of the knee

Problems during Pregnancy

The problem gets complicated as the child could fall prey to similar diseases and run the risk of coronary ailment

Psychological disorders

Depression, eating disorders, distorted body image and low self-esteem

Taking small precautions at home itself can go a long way in keeping off the excess fat

One can start with the following

Eat small portions

Chew well

Never eat & drink at the same time

Do not lie down and rest after eating

Eat 4-6 small meals per day `

Drink sugar-free beverages and avoid carbonated drinks

However, if a change in lifestyle does not render much change, one can always consider the option of bariatric surgery (only in case the person is morbidly obese)