Anti Obesity Day 2025: Obesity is a public health crisis across the globe and not particularly in India. Between 1990 and 2022, the rate of overweight and obesity spiked four-fold from 2 per cent to 8 per cent in both children and adolescents, while the percentage of adults living with obesity doubled from 7 per cent to 16 per cent.
In India, 24 per cent of women and 23 per cent of men are overweight or obese, according to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5, 2019-21). The World Health Organization (WHO) states that a body mass index (BMI) over 25 is considered overweight and over 30 is obese. Therefore, if you fall in this category, it is crucial to maintain a healthy weight because excessive weight issue can lead to certain health issues.
The National Institute of Health (NIH) explains that overweight and obesity may increase your risk for many health problems such as Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, metabolic syndrome, fatty liver diseases, some cancers, breathing problems, osteoarthritism, gout, diseases of the gallbladder and pancreas, kidney disease, pregnancy problems, fertility problems, sexual function problems and mental health problems.
To reduce your risk of certain health issues, Anti Obesity Day is observed every year on November 26, to address the risk of overweight and obesity. It provides an opportunity for people participating in dialogues about excessive weight gain. The Anti-Obesity Day 2025 will be observed on Wednesday, i.e tomorrow.
Some of the major contributing factors of overweight or obesity are unhealthy diets, sedentary lifestyles and environmental factors. "The increasing consumption of processed foods, reduced physical activity, and lifestyle changes have further intensified this growing crisis, affecting both urban and rural populations," the NFHS states.
Here are seven easy lifestyle changes that actually reduce obesity, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
Regular exercise: The thumb rule to stay fit is to stay active regularly. To avoid burnout and disappointment, ensure to avoid setting the bar very high, but rather take one little extra walk daily.
Do not starve: Healthcare professionals say that eating like a squirrel cannot help you lose weight. Instead, they suggest focusing on what your body needs energy to burn fat.
Sound sleep: A good sleep quality matters when you embark on a journey of weight loss. The CDC suggest avoiding drinking caffeine in the afternoon or in the evening, including turning off the phone 30 minutes before bedtime.
Manage stress: Experts suggest that stress can increase obesity. The NIH explains that stress is our "psychological experience that helps in the development and maintenance of obesity." Thus, it is crucial to manage your stress.
Rest without guilt: Do not forget to take rest without guilt. Your body needs time off from a regular workout routine for rebuilding muscle and restoring energy.
Find support: Weight loss need not be a lonely journey. Identify a friend or family member with whom you can confide during these crucial times.
Monitor your progress: Ensure to evaluate your progress regularly as this habit will help you stay on track.
