Type 2 Diabetes and obesity are two closely related conditions. Obesity significantly increases the risk of type 2 diabetes and in cases where people have been able to achieve significant weight loss, their blood sugar control has been commendable/excellent.
Here are some frequently asked questions on diabetes and obesity in India.
Q 1. I was always thin; now, all of a sudden, I am putting on weight. What Should I do?
Your body’s metabolism slows down with age, making it harder to stay thin as you grow older. Also, sedentary lifestyles with limited physical activity make even the thinnest of people put on weight at a surprising pace. The key lies in the lifestyle choices you make, so examining them will shed some light on your weight gain. If you are eating right, getting enough exercise and still gaining weight, you should consult a doctor as sudden unexplained weight gain can be due to thyroid disorder, hormonal derangements or as an adverse effect of an ongoing medicine.
Q 2. I do physical exercise and eat on time but I am not losing weight. What should I do?
The weighing scale doesn’t always tell you if your exercise and diet are working. Measure your waistline and see if you look leaner or if your clothes have become looser than before. In many cases, exercise makes people heavier due to increased muscle mass. Look more closely at the kind of exercise you are doing and the things you are eating. It may help to consult a nutritionist or trainer about moving forward. If it still doesn’t make sense, consult a doctor for a medical opinion.
Q 3. Does stress make you put on weight?
Research on diabetes and obesity has indicated that stress can make you put on weight faster. Stress causes the hormone cortisol to be released into the body and too much of it can make you hungry and lead to what is known as ”Stress eating”. Studies have also indicated that stress slows down metabolism, making it a two-pronged attack that packs on the pounds. Diabetes, obesity and metabolism are all closely related to stress; therefore, good mental health is as important to combat obesity and diabetes as healthy habits like exercise and diet.
Obesity is associated with an increased risk of developing insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. In obese individuals, adipose tissue releases increased amounts of non-esterified fatty acids, glycerol, hormones, pro-inflammatory cytokines and other factors that are involved in the development of insulin resistance.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Q 4. Is the fat around my stomach bad for my health?
Belly fat and diabetes are closely related since belly fat is an indication of visceral fat or fat around important organs, which can be harmful. If your waistline is above 35 inches as a woman or 40 inches as a man, you are likely to have significant amounts of visceral fat, which is associated with a number of health complications. A healthy, balanced diet, along with regular exercise, can help you lose belly fat.
Weight loss (for people who are overweight/obese) can be one of the most effective ways of reducing your chances of getting diabetes-related complications and ensuring your blood sugar stays in control. It is important to prioritize your health and maintain good, healthy habits and timely medications. Consult a nutritionist to help you with weight loss, and reach out to your doctor for any questions.
Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.
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