Dr Saksham Seth sums up the long-term view, “Weight loss should be approached with a realistically medical approach. The message that people should concentrate on instead of self-blaming is gradual changes, good sleep, stress, and professional guidance. The difference between sustainable weight loss and combat is that it is about cooperation with the body rather than conflict.”
So what actually helps?
Slow calorie reduction instead of crash dieting
Strength training to preserve muscle and support metabolism
Seven to eight hours of sleep
Stress management through routine and recovery
Medical screening for thyroid, insulin resistance, or hormonal disorders
Weight loss becomes more sustainable when biology is respected. Small steady shifts allow hormones and metabolism to adapt without triggering panic.
Medical experts consulted
This article includes expert inputs shared with TOI Health by:
Dr Salil Yadav, Consultant – General Surgery & Minimal Access And Robotic Surgery, Manipal Hospital, Gurugram.
Dr Chirag Tandon, Director – Internal Medicine, ShardaCare Healthcity.
Dr Saksham Seth, Associate Consultant, ISIC Multispeciality Hospital.
Inputs were used to explain that persistent weight gain and failed dieting attempts are rooted in complex biological mechanisms, and underline the importance of seeking professional medical guidance rather than resorting to extreme diets.
