Key points
- Many causes, not just willpower
- Waist size matters
- Slow, steady change lasts
- Sleep affects appetite
What it is
Excess weight builds up when the body takes in more energy than it uses over a long time. Genes, hormones, sleep, stress, medicines and daily routine all play a part — it is not simply a matter of willpower.
Weight around the waist is especially linked with diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. For Indian adults, a waist above 90 cm in men or 80 cm in women is a signal to act.
Common signs
- Steady weight gain over months or years
- Increasing waist size
- Breathlessness on stairs, snoring, tiredness
- Knee or back pain
- Raised blood sugar, blood pressure or cholesterol on tests
Common causes
- Sugary drinks, sweets, fried snacks and large portions
- Long hours of sitting, little activity
- Poor sleep and late nights
- Stress and emotional eating
- Thyroid problems, PCOS or some medicines
Everyday care that helps
- Aim for slow, steady loss — about half a kilogram a week
- Fill half the plate with vegetables and salad; add dal, eggs, paneer or other protein
- Cut down on sugary drinks, sweets, bakery and fried foods
- Walk briskly for at least 30 minutes a day
- Sleep seven to eight hours; poor sleep increases hunger
- Check thyroid, sugar and BP as advised
When to see a doctor promptly
- Rapid weight gain with swelling of legs or breathlessness
- Loud snoring with pauses in breathing
- Very high blood sugar or blood pressure readings
How we approach it at Gursagar
We look at your eating pattern, activity, sleep, stress, hormones and reports, and set realistic, step-by-step goals.
Dr. Shah prescribes classical homoeopathic medicine chosen for you individually, together with diet and activity guidance, reviewed regularly.
Common questions
Do I need to stop rice and roti?
No — portion size and what goes with them matter more.
How fast should I lose weight?
About half a kilogram a week is safe and more likely to last.
Can I consult online?
Yes.
Practising classical homoeopathy since 1999 · Gursagar Homoeopathic Hospital, Rajpura & Chandigarh · Full profile →
Would you like Dr. Shah to look at your case?
Consult in person at Rajpura or Chandigarh, or online from anywhere in India and abroad.
This article is for general health education and is not a substitute for a medical consultation. Every person is assessed individually, and results differ from person to person. Please do not stop or change any medicine prescribed to you without speaking to your doctor. Dr. Randeep Singh Shah, D.H.M.S., AFHom (UK) · Reg. No. 2423-A.