Top 15 Causes Of Obesity In India And Strategies To Reduce It!

Welcome, readers! Obesity has seen a substantial rise in India over the last few decades, affecting people of all age groups and health backgrounds, with the causes of obesity in India becoming a significant health problem. This epidemic is not only a serious health hazard but also places a heavy burden on the healthcare system and the economy.  
 
Overweight is expected to more than quadruple among Indians aged 20-69 years between 2010 and 2040, while obesity will triple. By 2040, the prevalence of overweight and obesity will be 30.5% (27.4%-34.4%) and 9.5% (5.4%-13.3%) for males, and 27.4% (24.5%-30.6%) and 13.9% (10.1%-16.9%) for women. The frequency of overweight and obesity is anticipated to rise the most between 2010 and 2040 in older people, and a study indicated that overweight and obesity increased more in rural areas than in urban ones. 

This comprehensive blog explores the many causes of obesity in India, examining the various cultural, economic, and environmental factors contributing to the growing problem. Further, we will discuss some expert-backed strategies which can manage this alarming health condition. Let’s get into the topic! 

Table Of Contents 

1. Top 15 Reasons Of Obesity In India? 

2. How To Reduce Obesity In India? 

3. Dietitian’s Recommendation 

4. The Final Say 

5. FAQs 

6. References 

Top 15 Reasons Of Obesity In India 

Let's delve into the 15 causes of obesity in India, examining the societal, environmental, and lifestyle factors contributing to this widespread health issue. From sedentary lifestyles to increased consumption of processed foods, understanding these reasons of obesity in India is crucial for effective prevention and management strategies: 

1. Changing Dietary Patterns 

Nutrition in India has undergone many changes. Once rich in grains, fruits and vegetables, the traditional diet is slowly replaced by foods high in sugar, fat, and calories. This change is caused by factors such as urbanisation, increasing disposable income, and the influence of Western-style nutrition. Consumption of fast food, packaged snacks, soft drinks, and ultra-processed foods is rising, leading to increased calorie intake and weight gain. 

2. Sedentary Lifestyle 

The modern lifestyle, characterised by urbanisation, technological advancement, and desk work, has led to decreased physical activity among Indians. Bad habits like sitting for long periods, looking at screens, and relying on transportation have become common. Regular exercise and lack of training not only lead to decreased energy levels but also increase the risk of obesity and health problems.  

Also Read: Recognising The Red Flags: Signs & Side Effects Of A Sedentary Lifestyle  

3. Limited Access To Physical Activity Facilities 

Despite increasing awareness about the importance of sports, many Indians face difficulties participating in physical activities. Lack of access to parks, playgrounds, gyms, and parks, especially in cities, limits exercise. Additionally, safety concerns, mismanagement, and overcrowding of public spaces prevent people, especially women and children, from participating in outdoor activities.  

4. Cultural Attitudes Towards Physical Activity 

Cultural practices and attitudes towards physical activity vary among different regions and communities in India. Although some groups value health and exercise, others may view physical activity as unnecessary or harmful to health. Particularly for women, the stigma associated with exercise can be a deterrent to participating in sports or exercise. Additionally, in Indian society, getting a good education and finding a job often precedes physical health.  

5. High Stress Levels 

Modern life in India often results from excessive stress from various sources, such as high workloads, financial concerns, and responsibilities. Chronic stress symptoms cause physiological responses that lead to weight gain and obesity. Stressful behaviours such as binge eating, the urge to eat, and overeating can lead to deficits in calorie intake and expenditure, promoting obesity. 

Also Read: 11 Proven Tips To Manage Stress 

6. Food Insecurity And Poverty 

Despite economic growth and development, many of India's population still face food insecurity and poverty. Lack of access or availability of nutritious foods due to financial constraints causes individuals and families to rely on cheap, high-calorie foods that lack essential nutrients. This phenomenon, known as the double burden of malnutrition, overlaps with obesity, a combination of nutrient deficiencies and excessive calorie intake, in many low-income families.  

7. Unhealthy School Food Environment 

Schools play an essential role in developing children's eating habits and behaviours. However, many unhealthy foods found in school cafeterias, vending machines, and cafeterias make promoting nutrition and healthy drinking challenging. Processed snacks, soft drinks, and fast food found in schools encourage unhealthy eating habits among students and contribute to childhood obesity.  

Also Read: Understanding The Role Of Health Education In Everyday Life  

8. Aggressive Marketing Of Junk Food 

Food companies' marketing strategies are essential in directing consumer behaviour and dietary preferences. Advertisements promoting junk food and beverages are popping up all over India, especially targeting children and teenagers. Celebrities, social media influencers, and famous figures are often used to endorse desserts, soft drinks, and fast food, associating them with the concepts of happiness, fun, and fame.  

9. Lack Of Nutrition Education 

Despite being health conscious, many Indians do not have enough knowledge about healthy and nutritious food. Nutrition education programs in schools and communities are often limited and limited in scope. As a result, people may need help understanding the vitality of proper nutrition, portion control, and the effects of overconsumption of processed foods and beverages. Lack of knowledge about food leads to malnutrition and obesity.  

10. Urbanisation And Built Environment 

Rapid industrialisation in India has led to significant changes in the built environment, affecting lifestyle and health. Urban areas have high population density, limited green space, and physical infrastructure problems. Walkability, ease of access to parks, and public transportation options influence activity levels and obesity in surrounding urban environments. In addition, urbanisation and traffic increase the burden of living and air pollution, causing obesity to increase.   

11. Genetic Predisposition 

Genetic factors play an essential role in determining a person's risk of obesity. Although genetics alone does not cause obesity, it interacts with the environment and behaviour to influence weight management. Some genetic changes affect metabolism, health policies, and fat storage, causing some people to be more overweight than others. Race and a family history of obesity, such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease, also increase the risk of obesity.  

12. Social Determinants Of Health 

Obesity in India is influenced by health determinants such as education, employment, and health. People with lower education and income may need more access to healthy food, healthcare, and entertainment. Economic inequality creates a disparity in obesity prevalence; marginalised communities face more significant challenges in adopting healthy lifestyles. Social norms, peer relationships, and weight norms influence behaviour, activities, and body image.  

13. Urban Food Environment 

The growth of fast-food restaurants, grocery stores, and street vendors has changed the food scene in India. Easy access to calorie-dense, unhealthy foods can lead to overconsumption and weight gain among city dwellers. Fast food, snacks, desserts, and processed foods are often cheaper and more convenient than fresh produce and other healthy options. The spread of unhealthy foods leads to efforts to improve health and prevent obesity.   

14. Limited Healthcare Resources 

Despite the increasing prevalence of obesity and related diseases, medical resources for prevention and management are still limited in India. Primary care is often prioritised for conditions that are more serious than chronic conditions, such as obesity, resulting in inadequate support for individuals seeking lifestyle interventions and weight control. Additionally, obesity-related stigma can worsen the problem by preventing people from seeking medical help or accessing support services.  

15. Cultural Norms And Food Practices 

Religious culture, traditions, customs, and ideology dominate Indian society. In some cultures, a larger body is associated with prosperity, fertility, and health, leading to the normalisation of fat and obesity. Festivals, weddings, and gatherings often revolve around food, where entertainment and hospitality are highlighted. Cooking methods, recipes, and preferences can prioritise taste and palatability over nutritional quality, leading to overeating and weight gain. 

In India, more than 135 million individuals are affected by obesity. The prevalence of obesity in India varies due to age, gender, geographical environment, socioeconomic status, etc. According to an ICMR-India-based study in 2015, the prevalence rate of obesity and central obesity vary from 11.8% to 31.3% and 16.9%–36.3%, respectively. 

In India, abdominal obesity is one of the significant risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Various studies have shown that the prevalence of obesity among women was significantly higher as compared to men. 

Also Read: 10 Science-Validated Reasons For Childhood Obesity: Studies, Potential Diseases & More  

How To Reduce Obesity In India? 

Reducing obesity in India requires a multifaceted approach that addresses a combination of factors contributing to the epidemic. Below is a plan showing various ideas: 

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