Obesity is fast becoming one of India’s biggest public health challenges, and AIIMS Delhi is taking a stand. In a press conference, leading experts shed light on the dangers of obesity, reinforcing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call to reduce oil consumption and adopt healthier lifestyles.

With obesity rates soaring, AIIMS New Delhi Director Prof. M. Srinivas, along with a panel of eight medical specialists, urged early intervention, smarter food choices, and lifestyle modifications to curb the crisis.

AIIMS’ Mission: Spreading Nutrition Awareness

Prof. M. Srinivas highlighted AIIMS Delhi’s pioneering efforts in nutrition research—from tackling iodine deficiency to using zinc to control diarrhea. Now, as obesity takes center stage, AIIMS is leading the charge with evidence-based insights to guide the nation toward healthier habits. He stressed the importance of educating children about nutrition early on, advocating for school-based awareness programs to instill lifelong healthy eating habits.

Obesity: More Than Just a Weight Issue

Dr. Rajeev Narang, Head of Cardiology, made it clear: obesity isn’t just about looks—it’s a serious health threat. He urged people to track their Body Mass Index (BMI) and waist circumference, pointing out that excess belly fat significantly raises the risk of heart disease and hypertension.

Dr. Naval Kishore Vikram, Professor of Medicine, noted that BMI alone doesn’t tell the whole story, especially for Indians, who tend to store more fat in their abdominal region. He recommended waist-to-height ratio as a better indicator of health risks and emphasized that obesity affects all socio-economic groups, including rural populations.

Dr. Nitish Naik, Professor of Cardiology, warned that without action, obesity can spiral into diabetes, heart disease, and other severe health conditions. He called for a family-centered approach, where households work together to cut out unhealthy foods and promote balanced diets.

The Hidden Link Between Stress and Weight Gain

It’s not just about diet—mental health plays a role too. Dr. Nand Kumar, Professor of Psychiatry, explained how stress contributes to obesity by triggering oxidative stress and hormonal imbalances. He introduced the "C-A-L-M" approach—Conscious Activity, Active Learning, Lifestyle Modifications, and Mindfulness—to combat stress-induced weight gain.

Rethinking Diet and Medical Solutions

Dieticians Dr. Parmeet Kaur and Dr. Monita Gahlot made a compelling case for cutting down on ultra-processed foods while increasing the intake of fresh fruits, vegetables, and nuts. They also stressed the importance of food label literacy, helping consumers make smarter choices.

Meanwhile, Dr. Asuri Krishna, Additional Professor of Surgical Disciplines, cautioned against seeing bariatric surgery as a quick fix, reinforcing that diet and exercise remain the most effective long-term solutions.

Yoga: A Secret Weapon Against Obesity?

Dr. Rima Dada highlighted a powerful tool in the fight against obesity—yoga. Beyond physical benefits, yoga helps regulate gene expression, reduce stress, and promote emotional resilience. She recommended at least 30 minutes of daily yoga to encourage mindful eating and better overall health.

A Nationwide Call to Action

The conference ended with a resounding message: tackling obesity requires a collective effort. Experts urged policymakers, educators, and individuals to prioritize dietary awareness, lifestyle changes, stress management, and school programs. As India faces an obesity epidemic, the time to act is now.