Lifestyle disorders in India: A growing concern
Verified by Dr. Vaishali Lokhande, Consultant Internal Medicine at Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai.
India is a country with a rich cultural heritage and diverse population. However, in recent years, the country has also witnessed a rise in lifestyle disorders. These disorders are caused by a combination of factors, including unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity, and stress.
Some of the most common lifestyle disorders in India include:
- Obesity
- Heart diseases
- Stroke
- Type 2 diabetes
- Cancer
There are a number of factors that contribute to the rise of lifestyle disorders in India.
- Dietary habits: One of the most significant factors is the change in dietary habits. In the past, traditional Indian cuisine was based on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes. However, in recent years, there has been a shift towards processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats.
- Sedentary lifestyle: Another factor that contributes to lifestyle disorders is the lack of physical activity. In the past, Indians were more active in their daily lives. However, due to urbanization and technological advancements, people are now more likely to spend their time in sedentary activities, such as watching television or working on a computer.
- Stress levels: Finally, stress is another major risk factor for lifestyle disorders. In today’s fast-paced world, people are constantly under pressure to perform and succeed. This can lead to chronic stress, which can have a negative impact on physical and mental health.
There are a number of things that can be done to prevent lifestyle disorders. Here are a few tips:
- Eat a healthy diet: Eat plenty of fruit, vegetables, and whole grains. Limit your intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats.
- Get regular exercise: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise most days of the week.
- Manage stress: Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as yoga, meditation, or spending time in nature.
- Reduce your salt intake: Indians tend to consume more salt than the recommended daily intake. This can increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.
- Quit smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for many lifestyle disorders, including cancer, heart disease, and stroke.
- Limit your alcohol intake: Excessive alcohol consumption can damage the liver and heart. It can also increase the risk of cancer.
- Get enough sleep: Most adults need around 7-8 hours of sleep per night. Sleep is essential for overall health and well-being.
By following these tips, you can reduce your risk of developing lifestyle disorders and live a long and healthy life.
If you have any concerns about your health, be sure to talk to our expert, Dr. Vaishali Lokhande, Consultant Internal Medicine at Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai.
We can help you to assess your risk for lifestyle disorders and develop a plan to stay healthy.
Call 022 6280 6280 for an appointment.