Introduction

Obesity is more than just being overweight—it is a chronic medical condition that increases the risk of serious diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, and even certain cancers. It affects millions of people across India, including the Mahakoshal region, due to sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy diets, and genetic factors.

At Apollo Hospitals Jabalpur, we provide comprehensive obesity management programs, including advanced diagnostic tools, customized weight loss plans, and expert guidance to help individuals achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

In this guide, you’ll learn about:

• What obesity is and why it happens
• Common causes and risk factors
• Diagnosis and health complications associated with obesity
• Treatment strategies, including diet, exercise, and medical interventions
• Preventive measures and lifestyle changes

Let’s take a step toward understanding obesity and how to manage it effectively.

What is Obesity?

Obesity is a condition where excessive fat accumulation affects overall health. It is usually measured using Body Mass Index (BMI), which categorizes individuals based on their weight-to-height ratio:

Severe obesity (BMI ≥ 40) is a critical condition that requires medical intervention to prevent serious health complications.

Apollo Hospitals Jabalpur offers BMI assessment and expert consultations to help determine your health risks.

Causes of Obesity

Several factors contribute to obesity, including:

1. Unhealthy Diet

High-calorie foods, junk food, sugary beverages, and processed meals lead to excessive weight gain.
Eating refined carbs and sugars contributes to fat accumulation.

2. Sedentary Lifestyle

Lack of physical activity slows metabolism, leading to fat storage.
Screen time addiction (TV, mobile, gaming) promotes inactivity.

3. Genetics and Family History

If obesity runs in the family, individuals are more likely to gain weight.
Genetic factors influence metabolism and fat storage.

4. Hormonal Imbalances & Medical Conditions

Thyroid disorders (Hypothyroidism) slow metabolism.
PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) causes weight gain in women.
Insulin resistance & diabetes increase fat accumulation.

5. Emotional & Psychological Factors

Stress, depression, and anxiety lead to overeating and weight gain.
Lack of sleep disrupts hunger hormones, causing cravings.

6. Certain Medications

Steroids, antidepressants, and hormonal treatments can cause weight gain.

Our specialists at Apollo Hospitals Jabalpur conduct thorough evaluations to identify and manage obesity causes effectively.

Health Risks of Obesity

Obesity is a major risk factor for many life-threatening diseases, including:

• Cardiovascular Diseases – High blood pressure, heart attack, stroke
• Type 2 Diabetes – Insulin resistance, increased blood sugar levels
• Respiratory Problems – Sleep apnea, breathing difficulties
• Joint Issues – Arthritis, back pain due to excess weight
• Mental Health Disorders – Depression, low self-esteem
• Cancer Risks – Obesity is linked to breast, colon, and liver cancers

Apollo Hospitals Jabalpur provides advanced diagnostic screenings to detect obesity-related health risks early.

Diagnosis of Obesity

Doctors diagnose obesity through various clinical assessments and tests, including:

1. Body Mass Index (BMI) Calculation

Determines weight category (normal, overweight, obese).

2. Waist Circumference Measurement

Excess belly fat increases risks of heart disease and diabetes.

3. Blood Tests

Cholesterol, blood sugar, and thyroid function tests help assess overall health.

4. Body Fat Percentage Analysis

Measures total body fat vs. muscle mass.

Get a complete obesity health check-up at Apollo Hospitals Jabalpur for a detailed analysis of your health status.

Treatment Options for Obesity

1. Lifestyle Modifications (Diet & Exercise)

Healthy Diet Plan:

• Include fiber-rich foods, fresh vegetables, fruits, and protein.
• Avoid processed foods, sugar, and fried items.
• Drink plenty of water and avoid sugary beverages.

Regular Exercise:

• At least 30-45 minutes of physical activity daily (walking, yoga, swimming, or gym workouts).
• Strength training helps boost metabolism and burn fat.

Apollo Hospitals Jabalpur offers customized weight loss plans with expert dietitians and fitness trainers.

2. Medical Treatments

• Prescription Medications – In some cases, doctors recommend appetite suppressants or metabolism boosters.
• Hormonal Therapy – Treats underlying conditions like thyroid disorders or PCOS.

3. Surgical Options (For Severe Obesity)

For individuals with BMI ≥ 40 or those who fail to lose weight through diet and exercise, bariatric surgery may be an option.

Types of Weight Loss Surgeries:

• Gastric Bypass Surgery – Reduces stomach size to limit food intake.
• Sleeve Gastrectomy – Removes a portion of the stomach to control appetite.
• Laparoscopic Gastric Banding – Places a band around the stomach to reduce food consumption.

Apollo Hospitals Jabalpur provides world-class bariatric surgery options with expert surgeons and post-operative care.

Prevention Strategies for Obesity

• Eat a balanced diet with fresh, homemade meals.
• Exercise regularly – at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
• Get enough sleep (7–8 hours daily) to maintain metabolism.
• Manage stress through meditation, yoga, or therapy.
• Avoid emotional eating – practice mindful eating habits.
• Stay hydrated and limit alcohol and sugary drinks.

Our wellness programs at Apollo Hospitals Jabalpur focus on preventive healthcare and lifestyle modifications for long-term obesity management.

Why Choose Apollo Hospitals Jabalpur for Obesity Management?

• Multidisciplinary team of obesity specialists, dietitians, and fitness experts
• Advanced weight management programs tailored to individual needs
• World-class facilities for obesity diagnosis, non-surgical treatments, and bariatric surgery
• Personalized diet and exercise plans with continuous follow-up support
• Holistic approach including mental health support and counseling

FAQs on Obesity

Q1: Can obesity be reversed?
A1: Yes! With proper diet, exercise, and medical support, weight loss is achievable.

Q2: How fast can I lose weight?
A2: A safe rate is 0.5–1 kg per week through a balanced diet and exercise.

Q3: Does stress contribute to obesity?
A3: Yes! Stress increases cortisol levels, which promotes fat storage.

Q4: Can obesity cause infertility?
A4: Yes! Obesity affects hormonal balance and reduces fertility in both men and women.

Take charge of your health! Start your weight loss journey with Apollo Hospitals Jabalpur today.