Fat is no fun

By Dr. Shobha Gupta

Obesity is a chronic medical condition characterized by too much body fat. Obesity is diagnosed by a number called the Body Mass Index (BMI), which calculates the amount of body fat. Your BMI is calculated from your current height and weight. The higher the BMI the more body fat a person has.

Being overweight affects everything.  Yet another growing problem in today’s time among the population is infertility caused due to Obesity. Weight problem cases are on increase everywhere, and so are infertility clinics. Almost 10% of couples in the country get affected by infertility and are hesitant to take medical advice. The obesity rates in India have been rising at an extensive rate, out of which quarter of the women’s population is defined as medically obese. 

Experts believe obesity has to do with the lifestyle issues of the major population in urban India. People in cities follow a sedentary lifestyle. Little or no physical activity are to blame.

I see at least 10 to 15 patients in a day coming to me for infertility out of which 4 to 5% are obese. Obesity also leads to low stamina, which reduces the urge of having sex. Obesity in women is known to contribute to annovulation, a reduced conception rate and at greater risk of pregnancy complications like having a C-section, giving birth to a large baby or even developing gestational diabetes and hypertension.

On the other hand men who are significantly overweight can suffer alterations in sleep behaviors, sexual behaviors, hormonal profiles, scrotal temperatures and the quality of semen.

LIFESTYLE CHANGES TO GET RID OF OBESITY

To get rid of obesity one needs to get clarity in the mind first and prepare oneself for the weight loss program. Get your body in harmony for slimming down which means taking full responsibility of your weight & health. Get clear on why weight loss is important to you. What would you “gain” once you “lose” the extra weight? Clarity is the power & this would inspire you to set up the conditions to make your goal become an inevitable reality.

Quick tips:

• Go for a balanced diet
• Get creative with exercise. Pick out interesting ways to move your body
• Eat three meals everyday breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Eat 5 servings of fruits and vegetables in a day
• Limit the fat, sugar and salt in your diet. Consult your GP for that
• Quit smoking and drinking
• Go for brisk walking twice in a day for 30 minutes

Stay healthy and obesity free..!!