Latest news with #VanitaRahman
Time of India
08-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Indians increasingly aware of weight loss drugs, but most wary their adoption: Survey
New Delhi: While the awareness of weight loss drugs in India is burgeoning at an unprecedented pace following the high-profile launches by global giants, most of the citizens in the country have reported to prefer non-medical options considering their side effects. According to a recent survey conducted by Morning Consult on behalf of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine over 1000 individuals, 87 per cent of the respondents believe "it is important to learn about non-drug-supported weight loss methods following concerns over safety and long-term use." As per the survey findings, 82 per cent of respondents had heard of these drugs, however, only 18 per cent could correctly explain how these drugs work and 65 per cent voiced that their benefits are highly exaggerated. Commenting on the survey findings Dr Vanita Rahman, internal medicine physician with the Physicians Committee said that many people are concerned about side effects and safety and are asking what options exist beyond medications. As a better alternative, the medical experts suggest focusing on lifestyle changes such as a low fat based diet to sustain long term benefits. 'A plant-based diet—low in fat and rich in fiber—can support long-term weight control without the risks associated with drug therapies. It's a sustainable strategy that equips patients with safer, evidence-based options for weight control,' said Dr Rahman. Adding to it Dr Zeeshan Ali, a nutrition researcher with the Physicians Committee extended that a Plant-based diet reduces the risk of obesity among adults who are genetically predisposed to the disease, and can help people reach a healthier Body Mass Index (BMI). Citing a study which analyzed the findings of the last National Family Health Survey the committee noted that overweight and obesity tend to affect Indian families as a unit, not just individuals and should prioritize household-level interventions, over purely individual approaches. In March this year, US giant Eli Lilly launched its blockbuster drug Mounjaro (tirzepatide) in India while its arch-rival Danish drug maker Novo Nordisk followed suit with the launch of its alternative brand Wegovy (semaglutide) last month. According to PharmaTrack data, as of June 2025 Lilly has sold around 88,000 identical units of Mounjaro (including both 2.5 mg and 5mg vial) while Novo has sold close to 17,000 units since its launch in June this year. Of India's total ₹628 crore anti-obesity drug market, semaglutide accounts for 66 per cent of the total market with a moving annual turnover (MAT) of ₹412 crore while tirzepatide with a MAT of ₹50 crore owns 8 per cent of the total share.
NDTV
08-07-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Wegovy And Mounjaro For Weight Loss Are In, But India Wants A No-Drug Obesity Fix
Obesity is becoming an increasingly serious concern in India. According to several studies, India now ranks third globally in the number of obese individuals, with a growing proportion of both adults and children affected. With the launch of weight-loss drugs like semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) in India (medications that have made international headlines) many hoped these pharmaceutical solutions might help address the country's escalating obesity crisis. However, a new nationwide survey reveals a strong preference among Indians for non-drug approaches. An overwhelming 87% of Indian adults say it is important to learn about weight-loss methods that do not rely on medication, citing concerns about the safety and long-term effects of such treatments. "As conversations around weight-loss drugs dominate headlines, many people are concerned about side effects and safety, and are asking what options exist beyond medication," says Dr Vanita Rahman, Internal Medicine Physician with the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine. According to Dr Rahman, adopting a healthful, plant-based diet - low in fat and high in fibre - can promote sustainable weight loss without the risks posed by drug therapies. "It's a long-term strategy that equips patients with safer, evidence-based options for weight control," she said. What The Survey Found The survey, conducted by Morning Consult on behalf of the Physicians Committee, also highlighted a widespread lack of understanding about the much-publicised GLP-1 weight-loss medications. The nationally representative survey included responses from over 1,000 Indian adults across age groups, gender, regions, educational backgrounds and rural-urban divides, in alignment with the latest Indian census data. The study found that while 82% of respondents had heard of these drugs, only 18% could accurately explain how they work. Many mistakenly believed that the drugs burn fat (26%) or boost metabolism (20%), while another 18% admitted they were unsure. Concerns around safety and effectiveness were also prevalent, according to the survey: 75% had heard about side effects during usage 69% were aware of risks after discontinuation 65% believed the media exaggerates the benefits 60% felt drug-based solutions receive excessive media attention These medication can cause nausea, vomiting and constipation. More serious, long-term side effects may include increased risks of gall-bladder disease, pancreatitis, thyroid cancer, eye conditions, and harm to a developing foetus. Research further shows that 88% of users do not achieve a normal body mass index (BMI) and remain overweight or obese. Nearly two out of three users stop taking the drugs within the first year, often due to side effects, high costs, or lack of effectiveness. Discontinuing the medication typically leads to rapid weight regain. Back To Basics Experts suggest that Indians are not interested in taking drugs for weight loss, instead they are truning back to traditional ways of losing weight. This also comes with the lack of awareness about weight loss drugs. "There's growing interest in approaches that are rooted in science, safe for families, and offer long-term results," says Dr Zeeshan Ali, PhD, Nutrition Researcher with the Physicians Committee. "Plant-based diets can reduce the risk of obesity even in those with a genetic predisposition and help people reach a healthier BMI," he adds. The survey findings arrive at a crucial time, following a recent study by the ICMR-National Institute for Cancer Prevention and Research (NICPR). The study, based on data from the National Family Health Survey 5, found that overweight and obesity in India often affect entire families, not just individuals. It emphasised the need for household-level interventions over purely individual strategies. "A shift towards plant-based meals could be the kind of shared dietary change that helps families improve their health together," says Dr Rahman. The results underscore the urgent need for public health campaigns that educate and empower Indians with safe, culturally relevant, and sustainable dietary solutions.
New Indian Express
07-07-2025
- Health
- New Indian Express
Exercise and a plant-based diet healthiest way to lose weight as compared to weight-loss drugs: Survey
NEW DELHI: As weight-loss drugs like semaglutide and tirzepatide dominate global headlines, a new nationwide survey shows that 87 per cent of Indian adults believe it is important to learn about non-drug-supported weight loss methods, following concerns over safety and long-term use. The study, which was conducted among 1,000 people residing in Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai, found that excess weight is a struggle for many Indians, and most have tried to lose weight. The most important reasons to lose weight for Indian adults include improved energy, reducing risk of chronic disease, and improved self-esteem/mental health. Exercise programs were largely seen as being the healthiest and most sustainable way to lose weight, it found. "As conversations around weight-loss drugs dominate headlines, many people are concerned about side effects and safety and are asking what options exist beyond medications,' said Dr. Vanita Rahman, internal medicine physician with the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine. 'A healthful, plant-based diet - low in fat and rich in fiber - can support long-term weight control without the risks associated with drug therapies. It's a sustainable strategy that equips patients with safer, evidence-based options for weight control,' said Rahman. The survey, conducted by Morning Consult on behalf of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, a non-profit organization that promotes preventive medicine, conducts clinical research, and encourages higher standards for ethics and effectiveness in education and research, also revealed gaps in understanding of the widely publicized GLP-1 medications - a class of drugs primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity. Although 82 per cent of respondents had heard of these drugs, only 18 per cent could correctly explain how these drugs work. Many mistakenly believed they burn fat (26 per cent) or speed up metabolism (20 per cent), while 18 per cent were unsure. The survey showed widespread concerns about safety of these drugs, which are now available in India too.
Yahoo
30-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
How To Reduce Blood Sugar Level Immediately With Easy Tips
If you've been unusually tired, foggy or thirsty, high blood sugar levels may be to blame. More people are keeping an eye on their glucose levels these days with a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), and for good reason. When blood glucose levels rise too high, even temporarily, it can sap your energy, mood and long-term health. So if you notice symptoms of a spike and are wondering how to reduce your blood sugar level immediately, there are simple, science-backed steps that can help bring it down fast. Still, it's important to note that home remedies can't immediately reverse high blood sugar or hyperglycemia. 'You don't develop high blood sugar overnight, and it won't reverse overnight either,' says Vanita Rahman, MD, Clinic Director at the Barnard Medical Center and a board-certified lifestyle medicine physician. 'But there are things you can do right now that begin to shift your body in the right direction, and you may start to feel the difference within hours.' Blood sugar, or blood glucose, is your body's main source of energy. It naturally rises after meals or during stress. But when blood sugar stays too high for too long, the effects could go far beyond feeling off. 'Over time, high blood sugar can damage blood vessels and nerves,' says Dr. Rahman. 'That's what increases the risk of developing complications like vision changes, nerve damage, kidney problems, heart disease and even stroke.' A big concern is insulin resistance, which is when your cells stop responding to insulin, the hormone that moves sugar from your bloodstream into your cells. The condition develops gradually due to poor diet, inactivity, excess body fat and genetics. Left unchecked, high blood sugar can lead to prediabetes and eventually raise your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. 'Many people are in that prediabetes range and don't even know it,' Dr. Rahman says. Symptoms can be subtle or slow to appear, she says. By the time they do, blood sugar may already be well outside the healthy range. A fasting glucose reading of below 100 mg/dL is generally considered healthy for most adults. Elevated readings are 101 to 125 mg/dL, and high readings are 126 mg/dL and above. (Learn more about normal blood sugar levels for your age here.) To see where you stand, ask your doctor for a fasting blood sugar test or A1C test (an average measure of your glucose over three months). These are the two most reliable ways to diagnose high blood sugar or insulin resistance. Home monitors and CGMs can help track trends, but Dr. Rahman says they're not accurate enough to make a diagnosis. While you can't immediately reduce high blood sugar levels, there are a few simple tips and tricks that help you control your blood sugar fast. Here's what works: 'Physical activity helps your muscles use blood sugar for energy, which brings levels down,' says Dr. Rahman. The effect is almost immediate. Studies show that walking within 30 minutes of eating can significantly reduce post-meal blood sugar spikes and improve insulin sensitivity. Even short bursts, just two to five minutes of light activity, make a difference. 'Do something you enjoy and can stick with,' Dr. Rahman adds. 'That's what makes it sustainable.' Reducing the fat content in your can have a swift impact on reducing blood sugar levels. 'Fat interferes with insulin,' says Dr. Rahman. 'That's why cutting out oils, fried foods, animal fats—and even limiting high-fat plant foods—can begin to lower blood sugar soon after you eat.' Research shows that low-fat meals produce significantly lower glucose responses within 30 to 60 minutes compared to high-fat meals. Conversely, even a single day of high-fat eating can impair insulin sensitivity by 28 percent within hours. Another simple trick that reduces blood sugar levels fast: Change the order in which you eat your food. Research shows that eating vegetables and protein before carbohydrates reduces post-meal blood sugar spikes by as much as 40 percent within the first hour. That's because fiber and protein help slow digestion and blunt the glucose surge. So before reaching for the bread basket, begin your meal with a salad or veggie side and some beans, tofu or another protein-rich food. 'How we eat can affect blood sugar as much as what we eat,' says Dr. Rahman. Mindful eating—turning off distractions, eating slowly and stopping when you feel satisfied— helps prevent overeating, which can lead to blood sugar spikes. In one study, people who practiced mindful eating for three months significantly reduced their blood sugar levels. 'When we eat mindfully, we let our body guide the process, not stress or habit,' Dr. Rahman explains. 'That makes it easier to make choices that support blood sugar balance.' Quick changes can bring blood sugar levels down, but lasting results come from consistency. And according to Dr. Rahman, big improvements often start within weeks of following a low-fat, plant-based diet. 'Fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes naturally support insulin sensitivity and help lower blood sugar,' she says. In her clinic's study, people who followed this approach for three months lost weight, improved their blood sugar and often needed less medication. 'Give it your full effort for 12 weeks. Your body will thank you,' she says. 'Most people feel so much better, they want to keep going.' Want to read more about lowering your blood sugar? Keep scrolling. The Best Low-Sugar Fruits to Stabilize Your Blood Sugar Naturally The 5 Best Sugar Substitutes Diabetics Love—They Taste Great and Keep Blood Sugar Steady! High Blood Sugar Symptoms You Should Never Ignore—Plus How To Naturally Lower a Spike This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always consult your physician before pursuing any treatment plan.
Hans India
18-05-2025
- Health
- Hans India
Structured online nutrition plan could offer hope in tackling India's diabetes crisis: Study
A structured, physician-led online nutrition programme may hold the key to combating India's escalating diabetes crisis, according to a new study published in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine. The research, led by Indian-origin physician Dr. Vanita Rahman of the U.S.-based Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM), underscores the potential of plant-based diets in improving health outcomes for diabetes patients, particularly in India's healthcare landscape. The 12-week study enrolled 76 adults with type 2 diabetes, out of which 58 completed the programme. Participants followed a plant-based nutrition regimen guided by medical professionals. The results were promising: 22% of participants reduced their diabetes medication dosages, average weight loss was recorded at 3.7 kilograms, and HbA1C levels—a key indicator of long-term blood sugar control—dropped by 0.6%. Moreover, for participants who were not on cholesterol-lowering medication, total cholesterol levels decreased by 15 mg/dL, and LDL (bad cholesterol) dropped by 12 mg/dL. These changes not only signify improved metabolic health but also highlight the effectiveness of dietary intervention in managing chronic conditions. India currently has over 101 million adults living with diabetes, with an additional 136 million in the prediabetic stage, making accessible and scalable solutions critical. 'India's diabetes crisis requires solutions that work within our healthcare realities,' said Dr. Rahman. 'While we've long known dietary changes can manage diabetes, implementing them has been difficult due to limited consultation time, poor follow-up, and access issues—especially in tier-2 and tier-3 cities.' The study aims to address these gaps by offering a structured programme that can be accessed remotely, eliminating geographical and logistical barriers. It provided participants not only with nutritional guidance but also with continuous support and practical strategies for real-world application. Dr. Rahman emphasized that this approach is particularly suitable for the Indian context. 'These results are especially relevant in India, where vegetarian and plant-forward diets are already part of the culture. With simple changes—such as reducing fat intake and emphasizing whole foods—this programme can be seamlessly integrated into Indian households,' she noted. The findings suggest that with the right support and structure, a shift toward plant-based nutrition can be a practical, low-cost, and impactful solution to India's growing diabetes epidemic.
