2.1 billion people globally are Overweight! What are we doing about it?! It’s time to Fight the Bulge!

For an individual, obesity is usually the result of an imbalance between calories consumed and calories expended. 

On June 5th the expert on the show was Dr. Rajkumar Palaniappan from Apollo Hospitals, who spoke about Obesity and ways to deal with it. Below are excerpts from the conversation.

Dr Rajkumar stated by saying that over 90% of overweight children tend to become obese adults. Parents need to be very careful with what they feed their children he said.

Adults need to watch what they eat as well as make sure they exercise regularly. There are many health problems associated with obesity.

One of the first callers asked why her active nephew is still overweight. 

Dr.Rajkumar replied saying there could be two reasons to this, Genetic make-up of Indians & Composition of Indian food – Carbs form a major part. Carbs should only form 1/3rd of the meal. Proteins & Vegetables must form the rest. Bajra, millet etc. have high fiber content and are good for health.

Another caller asked: Why thin people put on weight in their midriff?
He answered by saying one must be smart with one’s food. Change the combinations around till you find the right combo of carbs, protein for your body. The body saves fat to the middle region by default to protect the internal organs.

A caller asked if gym-goers should increase protein intake by eating more in the natural form or by using protein powders?

Doctor said 60-80gm of protein is required a day for a normal person. So for someone who works out they need more. Sprouts and other natural forms are better than taking the shortcut method of protein powder.

Another question was: How should one take care of one’s Liver, which is an important tool in food metabolism?
Dr.Rajkumar said – Do not overwork your liver by having very high carb, high protein diet or haphazard meals . Alcohol & smoking affects the liver cells. All these cause scarring of the liver which leads to poor metabolism.

Dr. Rajkumar summarized by sharing some tips for everyday living.
– Start your day early, do some physical activity to kick-start your day! 
– Eat healthy, have a minimum of 4 meals a day
– Take the stairs, avoid the Lift
– Get out of your seat once every hour and do a bit of stretching

 

The next week’s show, 12th June, centers on the health care of the elderly. Tune in to Chennai Live 104.8FM to listen in, call 044 42421048 to ask a question.