A new health initiative in Chennai is bringing scientific, whole-body care to the fight against obesity—an issue that now affects nearly one in four adults in India. Recently MGM Healthcare launched the ‘Nalam Institute for Metabolic Disorders and Hormonal Health, a center dedicated to helping people lose weight safely and sustainably using a combination of modern medicine, psychological support, personalized nutrition, and, if required, surgery.

The initiative, inaugurated by actor and public figure Ms. Khushbu Sundar, was described by hospital leaders as a much-needed response to a growing crisis.

A Weighty Problem

Dr. Urjitha Rajagopalan, Director at MGM Healthcare, highlighted the scale of the issue, saying, “Overweight and obesity have emerged as one of the most pressing public health concerns of our time. One in eight people worldwide is now living with obesity. In India, 24% of women and 23% of men are classified as overweight or obese.”

These statistics align with data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5, 2019–21), which reported that nearly a quarter of Indian adults now fall into the overweight or obese category—a figure that has doubled over the past decade.

While many think of obesity as a cosmetic issue, doctors at the institute are quick to clarify that it is primarily a medical condition. Dr. M. Swamikannu, a senior consultant at the new center, explained:

“Obesity significantly increases the risk of serious non-communicable diseases like heart attacks, strokes, diabetes, high blood pressure, and even some forms of cancer.”

What makes this center different?

Unlike typical weight-loss clinics that focus mainly on exercise and diet, the Nalam Institute uses what it calls a multidisciplinary approach—a method that brings together different medical experts to treat the same patient. This includes endocrinologists (hormone specialists), dietitians, psychologists, physiotherapists, and surgeons.

The first step is to assess a person’s metabolic health, which refers to how efficiently the body converts food into energy. Hormonal imbalances—often missed in standard checkups—are also investigated. Based on these findings, doctors create a care plan that may include medication, nutritional advice, counseling, and, in some cases, surgery.

One of the centre’s main offerings is a three-month guided programme that not only aims to reduce fat but also improves blood sugar levels and cholesterol, both known risk factors for heart disease and diabetes. The programme includes regular monitoring and behavioural therapy to support long-term habit change.

More Than Numbers on a scale

Psychological counseling is a key part of the process. Research published in The Lancet in 2023 found that over 35% of people living with obesity also suffer from anxiety or depression. Helping patients address emotional eating and self-image challenges can improve both mental and physical outcomes.

Dr Rajagopalan stressed that the goal is not just short-term weight loss but long-term health: “Our commitment is not just to provide advice but to walk with each individual until they achieve sustainable results and embrace healthier lifestyles.”