Obesity is a growing concern, and while excessive carbohydrate intake is a known culprit, this pattern is particularly pronounced in India’s southern states.
Dr. G. Moinoddin, Director of Bariatric & Metabolic Surgery for Manipal Hospital, Bengaluru, pointed out that rice-consuming states like Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka are experiencing alarmingly high rates. During a recent media conference in Tirupati, he directly linked the surge in metabolic-related illnesses to the widespread consumption of ‘polished rice’ as a staple food.
According to Dr. Moinoddin, approximately 67.4% of individuals in the region are either overweight or obese, with women (36.3%) being more susceptible than men (31.1%). These statistics emphasize the critical need to diversify dietary habits and integrate healthier, more balanced meals, including pulses, legumes, dairy, fish, and eggs.
A study cited by Dr. Moinoddin identifies several contributing factors to this increased incidence of obesity among 15- to 49-year-olds. These include a high intake of processed, nutrient-poor foods, sedentary lifestyles, and metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance, hypothyroidism, and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
Individuals grappling with obesity often exhibit symptoms like hypertension and high blood sugar, a cluster of conditions known as ‘metabolic syndrome’. Dr. Moinoddin stressed that these individuals face a significantly elevated risk of developing serious chronic conditions, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and various cancers.
For those struggling with obesity or related health complications, bariatric surgery emerges as the most effective treatment option. Dr. Moinoddin explained that advancements in minimally invasive surgical techniques make it easier to regulate food intake and achieve sustainable weight loss, offering a viable path to improved health.