Obesity Myths: Eating less doesn't reduce weight; experts reveal the truth about these big obesity myths.

Hormonal Imbalance and Weight Gain: The problem is that years of misconceptions, misleading diet advice, and social prejudices have overshadowed correct information.

Common myths about obesity

Common Obesity Myths Explained By Experts: Obesity is one of the most misunderstood health problems in the world. This isn't because science lacks answers, but rather because years of misconceptions, misleading diet advice, and societal prejudices have overshadowed accurate information. According to Saloni Paliwal, co-founder and COO of Voy India (formerly Earlyfit), there are many myths about obesity that are not only wrong but also harmful to people's health.

Does this happen due to lifestyle?

The biggest misconception is that obesity is solely a result of a person's lifestyle. However, research shows that many factors, including genetics, hormones, sleep, stress, gut microbiome, and environment, play a role. This is why two people can have different weights despite having similar diets and physical activity levels.

Does eating less fix it?

Another common myth is that "eat less and move more" is the solution. Saloni Paliwal explains that this advice isn't entirely wrong, but it's not sufficient to treat a complex and long-term condition like obesity. The hormones that control appetite and the body's metabolism make this process even more difficult.

Is it your responsibility not to lose weight?

Similarly, many people believe that a lack of willpower is responsible for their inability to lose weight. Hormones like ghrelin, leptin, insulin, and cortisol influence hunger and appetite. Simply telling people to work harder isn't the answer. Experts say that not all obesity is visible externally. Many people have fat deposits around the internal organs, a condition known as visceral obesity. This risk is particularly high in South Asian populations. Therefore, assessing health based solely on weight or BMI is not considered sufficient.

Can weight be gained back once it is lost?

Another major misconception is that once weight is lost, it stays lost forever. Research shows that the body tends to maintain its previous weight, which increases the risk of weight gain over time. This is why obesity can require long-term medical attention. There are also many misconceptions about GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide and tirzepatide. However, these drugs have shown promising results in clinical trials and help control appetite and metabolism. According to experts, their use is not an easy option, but a proper treatment.

Is obesity a disease?

The World Health Organization, the American Medical Association, and the world's leading endocrinology organizations recognize obesity as a chronic disease. It is linked to more than 200 diseases, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, sleep apnea, and several types of cancer. Therefore, it's not just a matter of weight gain; it's a serious health condition that needs to be addressed and treated promptly.