A study by API in several cities, including Uttar Pradesh, revealed that 55% of obese individuals do not find exercise and yoga effective and rely on medication for weight loss. Experts say that while medications offer quick results, a balanced diet and lifestyle are essential for sustainable weight management.
Lucknow: A new study by the Association of Physicians of India (API) in several cities, including Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh, has revealed that 55% of obese individuals consider exercise, yoga, and walking a waste of time and prefer medication as their primary option. However, Dr. Ajit Kumar and Dr. Subhash Giri state that medications only provide short-term relief. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and a healthy lifestyle are necessary for long-term sustainable weight loss, ensuring that obesity is managed effectively and safely.
Diet vs. Medications for Weight Loss
A new study by the Association of Physicians of India (API) in several cities, including Uttar Pradesh, has revealed that approximately 55% of obese individuals do not consider exercise, yoga, or walking effective for weight loss. They believe that the easiest way to lose weight is by taking medication. According to the study, people in modern lifestyles are increasingly turning to medications for quick results rather than putting in long-term effort.
According to a Reuters report, the consumption of weight loss drugs in India has surged in the past five years. Sales of anti-obesity drugs like Mounjaro (tirzepatide) rose from ₹130 million in May 2025 to ₹300 million in July. This trend indicates that people are now relying more on medication for weight loss.
Benefits and Risks of Medications
Dr. Ajit Kumar from Rajiv Gandhi Hospital, Delhi, explains that weight loss medications reduce appetite and help in losing weight in a shorter time. These medications can help reduce obesity-related health risks such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
However, these medications also have side effects, including nausea, diarrhea, gastrointestinal issues, and eye problems. The biggest concern is rebound weight gain, meaning weight can rapidly return once the medication is discontinued. Therefore, relying solely on medications is not considered safe in the long term.
Diet and Lifestyle Essential for Sustainable Weight Loss
According to Dr. Kumar and Dr. Subhash Giri, the safest and most sustainable way to lose weight is through a balanced diet and regular physical activity. A report from Harvard Medical School also suggests that weight loss through proper diet and exercise is gradual but remains sustainable in the long run.
A study in the NEJM also found that taking Semaglutide (2.4 mg, once-weekly) and maintaining a controlled lifestyle can lead to an average weight loss of 14.9% in 68 weeks. This means that combining medication with proper diet and exercise can yield more effective and safer results.
National Obesity Statistics
According to NFHS-5, approximately 24% of women and 21% of men above 15 years of age are overweight or obese. A report by The Lancet suggests that by 2050, nearly 450 million people over the age of 25 in India may be obese. This indicates that obesity is becoming a serious public health challenge in the country.
