Following PM Modi’s speech, Akshay Kumar shares 4 key tips to help tackle rising obesity in India

Curious to understand how these pillars contribute to weight management, indianexpress.com spoke to Deepalakshmi, a registered dietitian at The Cleft and Craniofacial Centre and Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chennai.

“Adequate sleep, regular physical activity, exposure to fresh air, and avoiding processed foods are key factors in tackling obesity, as they help regulate metabolism, control appetite, and improve overall well-being,” she said.

According to her, “Quality sleep ensures a proper balance of hunger hormones—ghrelin and leptin––helping to prevent overeating. Sleep deprivation increases cravings for high-calorie foods and contributes to insulin resistance, making weight management difficult.”

Diet plays an important role in tackling obesity. (Source: Freepik)

Deepalakshmi also said that regular physical activity plays a crucial role in burning calories and improving metabolism. “It enhances insulin sensitivity, reduces fat storage, and releases endorphins, which help lower stress levels and prevent emotional eating. Movement also builds muscle, which increases the body’s resting metabolic rate, leading to higher calorie burn even at rest,” she said.

When asked how exposure to fresh air and sunlight supports weight management, she said, “It boosts vitamin D levels, which are linked to better fat metabolism. Time outdoors also encourages physical activity, reduces cortisol (a stress hormone that promotes fat accumulation), and improves sleep quality by regulating circadian rhythms.”

Deepalakshmi also pointed out that avoiding processed foods and unhealthy fats supports weight loss. “Highly processed foods are often high in sugars, unhealthy fats, and empty calories, leading to excessive calorie intake, inflammation, and poor satiety. Choosing whole foods rich in fibre and healthy fats, like desi ghee, nuts, and seeds,, promotes fullness, stabilises blood sugar, and prevents overeating,” she said.

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