Obesity is a chronic medical disease that can lead to a host of cardiovascular
diseases such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, gallstones etc.. It is also a risk factor for a number of cancers. Even though medications and diets can help, the treatment of obesity cannot be a short-term solution but has to be a lifelong commitment to proper dietary habits and increased physical activity. A  weight loss of 5%-10% of initial weight and the long-term maintenance of that  weight loss  can bring significant health benefits by  lowering blood pressure  and lowering the risks of  diabetes  and  heart disease.

The balance between calorie intake and energy expenditure determines a person’s weight. If a person eats more calories than he or she burns, the person gains weight (the excess energy as fat in the body). If a person eats less calories than he or she metabolizes, it will lead to loss in weight. You are what you eat.

The most common causes of obesity are overeating and physical inactivity. Excess body weight can also be due to:

• Genetics
• Diet high in simple carbohydrates.
• Frequency of eating
  Medications.
• Certain Medications are also associated with weight gain.
• Psychological factors, diseases such as hypothyroidism, insulin
  resistance.
• Polycystic ovary syndrome
• Sometimes social issues

The body mass index (BMI)  is a mathematical formula used for calculating the level of obesity. The BMI equals a person’s weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared (BMI = kg/m 2 ). Body mass index (BMI) of urban Indians is higher (approximately 24–25) as compared with that of rural population (BMI of about 20). More than raised BMI, it is the abdominal obesity which is a cause for concern. Increased waist circumference can also be a marker for increased risk even in persons of normal weight. Waist-to-hip ratio in urban setting in men is 0.99 vs 0.95 in rural males.

The best and safest way to lose fat and keep it off is through a commitment to a lifelong process of healthy eating habits, proper diet and regular exercise. The diet should be safe, that includes all of the recommended daily allowances (RDAs) for vitamins, minerals, and protein. Medications should be considered helpful adjuncts to diet and exercise for patients whose health risks from obesity outweigh the potential side effects of the medications.

Also it is very important to maintain weight after the weight-loss phase is over because it is of little benefit to lose a large amount of weight initially, only to regain it later. So Weight Maintenance is the most difficult part of controlling weight. Maintaining your ideal body weight is a balancing act between food consumption and calories needed by the body for energy.

At Pro Health Diet Clinic, Sunita Malhotra the Best Dietitian for weight loss, take care of your health in both Phases Weight Reduction as well as Weight Management through customized Weight Control diet plans and regular follow ups.