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INCREASED OIL CONSUMPTION MAY BE A LEADING OBESITY CAUSE
Creating a calorie deficit, where you consume fewer calories than you burn, is a key factor in losing weight, and cutting back on excess oil can be a practical part of this equation
A social media video uploaded on Twitter where Indian PM Narendra Modi is seen and heard talking about how reducing oil consumption can help prevent obesity.
A social media post shows Narendra Modi talking about the importance of combating obesity through daily diet and exercise. He highlighted that by gradually reducing oil consumption and taking small, consistent steps each day, the people of India can effectively prevent obesity.
IS OIL CONSUMPTION IN INDIA ALARMINGLY HIGH?
India’s cooking oil consumption has grown considerably in 2024-2025, with many families consuming well beyond the suggested limits for daily fat intake. The prevalence of refined oils, fried foods, and processed products in everyday diets is contributing to increasing obesity levels and related health problems.
The National Institute of Nutrition recommends Indians limit visible fat consumption to 25-30 grams daily, but research shows actual usage frequently surpasses this recommendation substantially. Reducing this excess could represent a practical approach to improving weight management.
According to Dr. Shalin Nagori, Consultant Pathologist and Industrial Physician, “When people consume too much oil, particularly refined varieties, it throws off metabolic functions and heightens the likelihood of insulin resistance, which makes weight control more difficult.”
CAN CUTTING OIL INTAKE TRIGGER WEIGHT LOSS?
Yes, to an extent. Since oil contains approximately 120 calories per tablespoon, controlling or limiting its use can decrease your total daily calorie intake, potentially aiding weight loss. Establishing a calorie deficit, where you burn more calories than you consume, is essential for weight reduction, and minimizing excessive oil can be an effective component of this strategy.
Research indicates that long-term weight management is influenced by complete dietary habits. Healthy fats from oils, nuts and seeds are important for feeling full, regulating hormones, and absorbing nutrients. A sensible reduction in oil, rather than eliminating it completely, can help maintain satisfaction while reducing calorie consumption.
“We shouldn’t vilify fats, but instead make smart selections and incorporate them into our diet from childhood as a routine practice,” explains Dr. Shashank Jain, MBBS, MD (Pediatrics). “Replacing refined oils with healthier options such as mustard oil or cold-pressed coconut oil can help reduce inflammation and support heart health.”
ARE SOME OILS HEALTHIER THAN OTHERS?
Absolutely! There’s a meaningful distinction between refined oils and unrefined healthier oils. Refined oils, commonly used in processed foods, may promote inflammation and weight increase when overconsumed. In contrast, moderate amounts of healthier oils that contain monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats support general health.
Research published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition discovered that diets containing more monounsaturated fats can assist with weight management by enhancing insulin sensitivity and regulating hunger hormones. Therefore, making wise choices about healthier oils can have a positive effect on your weight control efforts.
Dr. Swati Dave, who holds a PhD in Food and Nutrition, recommends, “For Indian cooking, transitioning to oils such as sesame or mustard oil, which have balanced fat profiles, can provide both flavor and health advantages without sacrificing taste.”
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