New Delhi: India is facing an alarming surge in obesity, a condition once associated with wealthier nations but now a growing epidemic here. Along with this, diseases such as diabetes and hypertension are on the rise, demanding urgent intervention. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s recent call to reduce edible oil consumption by 10% is crucial in recognizing obesity as a serious health challenge. This could be the first of many significant policy changes to tackle this pressing issue.
In an interaction with News9Live, Dr. Aparna Govil Bhasker, Consultant Bariatric and Laparoscopic Surgeon, MetaHeal – Laparoscopy and Bariatric Surgery Center, Mumbai; Saifee, Apollo, and Namaha Hospitals, Mumbai, spoke about the obesity crisis and how reducing oil intake in food can help.
According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), obesity rates in India have nearly doubled in the past two decades. One in four Indians is now overweight or obese, with childhood obesity emerging as a growing concern. The shift in dietary habits, urbanization, and sedentary lifestyles have contributed significantly to this crisis.
Excessive use and repeated reuse of edible oil in home-cooked and outside food pose serious health risks. While oil is an essential cooking ingredient, overconsumption can lead to obesity, heart disease, and metabolic disorders. Many traditional Indian dishes are prepared with generous amounts of oil, contributing to an unhealthy calorie surplus and increasing the risk of diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and hypertension.
A major concern is the reuse of oil, especially in street food and restaurant kitchens, where the same batch of oil is reheated multiple times. This process leads to the formation of harmful trans fats, free radicals, and toxic compounds that can increase inflammation, damage cells, and raise the risk of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and digestive issues. Even at home, reheating oil repeatedly lowers its nutritional value and releases harmful substances that may have long-term health implications. It is essential to discard used oil after one or two uses and opt for healthier cooking techniques like air-frying, grilling, or steaming. Next time you have those deep-fried “bhajiyas” at home or on the street, think twice!
Making conscious choices about oil consumption and storage can significantly improve overall health. Reducing oil intake, avoiding deep-fried foods, and using fresh oil each time can help prevent the adverse effects of excessive oil use and promote long-term well-being.
The Social Media Influence on Oil Consumption
In the digital age, food trends spread rapidly through social media. Many influencers promote the liberal use of ghee and oils, claiming they are essential for good health. While traditional fats have their place in a balanced diet, excessive consumption—often encouraged by these trends—can do more harm than good. It is important to filter nutrition advice critically and rely on evidence-based recommendations rather than viral food fads.
A Small Change with a Big Impact
PM Modi’s call to reduce oil consumption by 10% may seem minor, but collectively, this small step can lead to significant health improvements. Cutting down on oil can help lower daily calorie intake, prevent excessive weight gain, and reduce the burden of obesity-related diseases. If every Indian household makes this adjustment, the long-term impact on public health could be profound. Reducing oil intake isn’t just about lowering calories; it also improves cardiovascular health, digestion, and metabolic function. Healthier cooking methods like steaming, grilling, and air-frying can reinforce these positive changes.
A Doctor’s Perspective: Two Decades of Treating Obesity
As a doctor specializing in obesity care for two decades, I have seen firsthand how excessive oil consumption is one of the contributors to weight gain and metabolic disorders. One of the biggest challenges I face in my practice is convincing people that small dietary changes—like reducing oil or sugar intake—can make a significant difference.
I have treated countless patients suffering from obesity. Many struggle to understand how their daily food choices impact their long-term health. However, when they begin making adjustments, such as cutting down on oil or processed sugar, their health parameters improve remarkably. PM Modi’s initiative is a step in the right direction, and I hope it sparks a nationwide conversation on sustainable obesity prevention strategies.
A Landmark Recognition of Obesity as a Public Health Concern
For years, obesity has been overlooked in India’s public health discourse. While the government has tackled malnutrition and communicable diseases, obesity has not received the same attention. PM Modi’s call to action marks a turning point. It signals that the government is finally recognizing obesity as a major health crisis and may pave the way for structured interventions like awareness campaigns, food labeling regulations, and policies promoting healthier diets.
Public health experts have long advocated for measures such as restrictions on trans fats, clearer labeling on packaged foods, and nutrition education in schools. This initiative could be the precursor to such reforms, shaping a healthier future for India.
The Road Ahead
Addressing obesity requires a multifaceted approach. While reducing edible oil consumption is an important step, it must be complemented by increased physical activity, better access to nutritious foods, and widespread awareness about balanced nutrition. PM Modi’s initiative is a welcome move. Now, it’s up to individuals, policymakers, and the food industry to build upon it. If successfully implemented, this small dietary shift could lay the foundation for a healthier India. This moment marks the beginning of a much-needed national dialogue on obesity prevention, and it is only the first step toward lasting change.
Making conscious choices about oil consumption and storage can significantly improve overall health. Reducing oil intake, avoiding deep-fried foods, and using fresh oil each time can help prevent the adverse effects of excessive oil use and promote long-term well-being. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
