PUNE: A study has found that 83 per cent Indians, who are at heart risk due to belly fat, do not consider belly fat to be a key reason for the risk. It also found that 63 per cent Indians under 35 years of age are at heart risk due to belly fat.
‘Saffolalife’ recently released the findings of the study to raise awareness about heart health in India on the occasion of World Heart Day observed on September 29. Saffolalife and Nielsen conducted the pan-India survey among those who have belly fat to understand the extent of heart risk.
This study covered 837 respondents across key cities of Delhi, Mumbai, Lucknow and Hyderabad. Some of the startling facts from the study revolve around age, gender and lifestyle implications on heart health due to belly fat.
The key finding that emerges from the study is that belly fat has an impact on heart health. The study revealed that 67 per cent of Indians with belly fat are at heart risk. The study also highlights the factors common to those with belly fat and the resultant impact on heart health.
Around 84 per cent of Indians, who have belly fat, do not consider belly fat among the top three reasons for heart risk. Eating habits, which are common among Indians with belly fat, include eating outside home at least once a week (81 pc), eating a heavy dinner (78 pc) and junk food consumption (69 pc).
Lifestyle habits, which are common among Indians with belly fat are not getting sound sleep (58 pc) and not exercising regularly (61 pc).
With growing lifestyle challenges, people in India are now at risk of heart diseases at a much younger age. Some of the major reasons are long working hours, job stress, irregular meals, sleep deprivation and sedentary routine.
On leading a heart-healthy lifestyle, nutritionist Pooja Makhija said the study shows a strong correlation between belly fat and heart health risk. Hence, managing belly fat is critical.
“Therefore, I urge every individual to start making small but significant changes in their lifestyle so that they can address the belly fat issue. This is easily done by eating right, avoiding junk food, exercising regularly, sleeping well and reducing stress,” said Makhija.
Commenting on the findings of the study, Dr Shashank Joshi, endocrinologist, Lilavati Hospital, said the study reveals even if the BMI is within the normal range and the person has belly fat, they might be at a risk.
