8 Myths About Obesity In Adults That You Should Stop Believing

Obesity is a complex health issue with many misconceptions. It's not just a personal problem, and not all obese are unhealthy. Obesity is a global problem, and surgery is not the only solution.

There are many misconceptions and myths surrounding obesity.

Source : Canva

By Dr Rajesh Kapoor: Obesity is a complex and multifaceted health issue that affects millions of adults worldwide. Despite its prevalence, there are many misconceptions and myths surrounding obesity that can be damaging and cause unnecessary confusion. The very common myth is that obesity is a personal problem, not a public health issue. In reality, obesity is a significant public health issue that requires a comprehensive and multi-layered approach.

All obese individuals are not unhealthy. The truth is some people with obesity may be metabolically healthy, meaning they do not have the typical health risks associated with obesity. Sedentary lifestyle and a lack of exercise are not to be blamed entirely as obesity is a complex interplay of factors, including diet, genetics and external environment. 

Bariatric Surgery is the only solution for severe morbid obesity is another common myth. For some people, surgery can be a starting point of their weight loss journey. They have to supplement that with exercising, actively choosing a better lifestyle and diet. However, it should be noted, there are other treatment options, such as lifestyle changes, medications and behavioural therapy which could also be effective in some cases. 

Also, obesity is not a problem in wealthy, developed countries alone. It is a significant health issue in many low income and developing countries too. And it's not that all obese individuals are lazy. We know for a fact that many people with obesity are highly motivated and active individuals who face significant challenges in managing their weight.

Finally, obesity is a moral failing, which means that obesity is a complex health issue that requires compassion, understanding and evidence-based individualistic solutions.

It's time to break down the barriers of stigma and shame surrounding obesity and instead, cultivate a culture of compassion, empathy and understanding. Only by addressing the complex causes of obesity and promoting evidence-based solutions can we hope to reduce the prevalence of this debilitating health condition and improve the lives of millions of adults worldwide.

Let's know about some myths about obesity in adults that you should stop believing.

ALSO READ ON ABP LIVE | Why Do We Crave For Junk Food? Know The Brain Connection Linked To Obesity

8 Myths About Weight Loss

Weight loss is typically a frustrating and intimidating task, compounded by the myths and unrealistic hopes that surround it. We have all fallen victim to trending diets and quick fixes, only to be left disheartened and upset. It's time to lay the facts straight and debunk 8 weight loss myths.

1. The most common myth is that you need to eat less of everything to lose weight. That is not true. In fact, reducing the overall calorie consumption makes you lose weight, but it's not about restricting everything. You just need to focus on filling your plate with nutritious low-calorie food sources like fruits, vegetables and whole grain foods.

2. Many people think skipping meals makes you lose weight faster. That’s boldly incorrect because missing meals actually makes your body hold onto existing fat reserves and slow down your metabolism. You should be eating three regular and balanced meals, with snacks throughout the day, to keep your metabolism up and prevent overeating later.

3. They say that all calories are created equal. However, while calorie counting is helpful, what you eat matters. Packaged foods and soft drinks contain empty calories with few to no nutrients and results in weight gain.

4. Many believe exercising is only meant to burn calories. In reality, exercise is a key part of weight loss because it raises your metabolism and creates muscle mass. It doesn't end with calorie burning. Regular exercise improves your mood, lowers stress hormones and makes your heart, bones and body stronger.

5. There’s also a myth that says you can target specific areas for fat loss. Unfortunately, losing fat in a certain area is not possible. Your body puts on fat wherever it is present in your body and also loses fat first as much as possible depending on genetics.

6. It is said that late night eating contributes to weight gain. What is most important is your overall intake of calories over the course of the day, not necessarily when you consume them. However, consuming food late at night may interfere with your sleep pattern and lead to unhealthy late-night snacking.

7. Are supplements a magic bullet for weight loss? Not true. Supplements alone are not an effective approach to weight loss. While some might give a modest metabolism boost, they cannot substitute it for a good diet and exercise.

8. Lastly, you may hear weight loss is always linear and easy. No. Weight loss is individualistic and tends to be slow and nonlinear in many cases. 

By identifying and debunking these common misconceptions, we can be informed and balanced in our methods towards weight loss and more likely prepare for a happier, healthier and long life.

Dr Rajesh Kapoor is Director, GI & Hepato-Pancreatico-Biliary Surgery, Gastrointestinal & Hepatobiliary Oncology, Gastrointestinal Surgery, at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Noida.

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]