Obesity has become a silent epidemic, affecting millions worldwide. While most people blame junk food, sugary beverages, and lack of exercise for weight gain, one crucial factor often goes unnoticed—excessive oil consumption.

Cooking oil, a staple in every household, can immensely contribute to obesity when used excessively. Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised concerns about this overlooked issue and urged Indians to cut down on their oil intake.

What is obesity?

Obesity is a medical condition marked by excessive body fat accumulation, which increases the risk of various health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure. Overeating, lack of physical activity, and poor dietary habits contribute to the growing obesity crisis. However, PM Modi’s latest remarks highlight an often-ignored culprit—cooking oil.

PM Modi’s take on oil & obesity

Speaking at the 38th National Games opening ceremony, PM Modi addressed the role of excessive oil consumption in rising obesity levels. He emphasised the need to reduce oil intake, stating: "Every age group of the country, and even the youth, are being badly affected by it. And this is also a matter of concern because obesity increases the risk of diseases like diabetes, heart disease."

He further urged households to take practical steps in limiting oil usage, "In our homes, ration comes at the beginning of the month. Till now, if you used to bring home two litres of cooking oil every month, then reduce it by at least 10%. Reduce the amount of oil we use every day by 10%."

This statement has sparked nationwide discussions about dietary habits and health-conscious cooking methods.

How does excessive oil intake lead to obesity?

Scientific studies have shown a direct link between high oil consumption and obesity. A study published in the National Library of Medicine highlights that excessive intake of vegetable oils high in omega-6 fatty acids contributes to inflammation and weight gain. The imbalance between omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids can lead to metabolic disorders, increasing the risk of obesity-related diseases.

Moreover, cooking oils, especially refined ones, are calorie-dense and can lead to excessive calorie intake when not monitored. Oils like soybean, sunflower, and palm oil are commonly used in Indian households but can disrupt the body’s natural fat metabolism when consumed in excess.

Akshay Kumar supports PM Modi & shares his fitness tips

Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar, known for his disciplined lifestyle, applauded PM Modi’s initiative. Sharing an old video of the PM highlighting the importance of a healthy lifestyle, the actor wrote on X, "How true!! I’ve been saying this for years now... love it that the PM himself has put it so aptly. Health hai toh sab kuchh hai. Obesity se fight karne ke sabse bade hathiyaar."

Tips according to Akshay Kumar:

Prioritise enough sleep

Akshay follows a strict sleep schedule, emphasising that quality sleep improves metabolism, aids recovery, and supports weight loss.

Get fresh air and sunlight

Spending time outdoors provides essential vitamin D, improves mood, and enhances overall well-being.

Avoid processed foods

He advises consuming home-cooked meals and avoiding refined oils, processed foods, and artificial supplements. Instead, he recommends using traditional options like desi ghee.

Exercise regularly

Akshay encourages movement through martial arts, yoga, and functional training. He stated, "And most importantly… Move, move, move. Kuchh bhi type ka workout karo par karo toh sahi. Regular exercise will change your life. Trust me on this and get moving."