New Delhi, September 5 (Daily Kiran) : In a recent obesity summit, Professor Nawal Vikram from AIIMS New Delhi highlighted that Body Mass Index (BMI) alone is not a reliable indicator of obesity. He pointed out that BMI fails to differentiate between fat and muscle, which can lead to misleading conclusions about an individual’s health. The real danger lies in metabolically active fat accumulated around the abdomen and waist, which is linked to various health issues.
Professor Vikram explained, “BMI has been a standard measure for defining obesity for a long time. It does not account for the amount of fat versus muscle in the body. For instance, an athlete with a BMI of 30 may have a high muscle mass and only 15% body fat. In contrast, another individual with the same BMI may have 40% body fat and only 15% muscle. Relying solely on BMI categorizes both as obese, despite their differing health risks.”
He emphasized that the likelihood of developing diabetes or heart-related diseases is higher in individuals with a greater percentage of body fat. Since BMI does not distinguish between fat and non-fat mass, it is advisable to use additional measurements alongside BMI. Specifically, fat accumulation around the abdomen is a critical indicator of health risks. In contrast, fat located on the thighs poses less of a threat.
Another useful metric Professor Vikram suggested is waist circumference relative to height. For example, if someone is 160 centimeters tall, their waist should not exceed 80 centimeters, irrespective of gender. Maintaining a waist measurement at half of one’s height can indicate a lack of abdominal obesity, which is crucial for overall health.
He also discussed new injectable medications for treating obesity in children, which are highly specialized and can only be prescribed by MDs or endocrinologists, according to government guidelines. These drugs have proven effective in weight management, but they require long-term use to maintain results. If treatment is interrupted after a few months, the weight is likely to return. Recently, one of these medications has been approved for children aged 12 and older when necessary.
Diet plays a pivotal role in managing obesity. Professor Vikram recommended consuming only 70-80% of one’s hunger capacity and avoiding overeating. Establishing a fixed eating pattern and prioritizing freshly prepared meals are essential. Reducing intake of high-salt, high-sugar, and high-fat foods is crucial. He noted that Prime Minister Modi has advocated for a 10% reduction in oil consumption, which significantly lowers calorie intake.
The professor’s insights underscore the importance of understanding body composition and making informed dietary choices to combat obesity effectively.
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