Union Minister Jitendra Singh has highlighted that excess abdominal fat (central obesity) is a more serious health risk than general obesity, urging people to pay closer attention to waist size rather than just body weight.
🔍 Key statement
Speaking at a recent public health event, Singh emphasized that fat accumulation around the abdomen—often referred to as belly fat or visceral fat—is more dangerous because it surrounds vital organs such as the liver, pancreas, and intestines.
⚠️ Why abdominal fat is more dangerous
Medical experts explain that central obesity is strongly linked to several chronic diseases due to its impact on metabolism and internal organs.
Major risks include:
Higher chances of Type 2 Diabetes
Increased risk of Cardiovascular Disease
Greater likelihood of Hypertension
Elevated risk of fatty liver disease and hormonal imbalance
Unlike fat stored in other parts of the body, abdominal fat is metabolically active, meaning it releases inflammatory substances that can damage organs and blood vessels over time.
📏 Waist vs weight: a better indicator
According to Singh, relying only on Body Mass Index (BMI) may not always reflect true health risks. Instead, waist circumference and waist-to-hip ratio are better indicators of harmful fat accumulation.
Health guidelines generally suggest:
Men: Waist size should be below 90 cm
Women: Waist size should be below 80 cm
Values above these levels may indicate increased health risks—even in people who are not classified as obese by BMI standards.
🧬 Lifestyle factors behind rising abdominal obesity
Experts point to modern lifestyle habits as major contributors, including:
Sedentary behavior and lack of exercise
High intake of processed and sugary foods
Stress and poor sleep patterns
India has seen a growing trend of “thin-fat” individuals—people who appear slim but carry excess abdominal fat, making awareness even more important.
🏃 Prevention and management
To reduce abdominal fat and related risks, health experts recommend:
Regular physical activity (especially cardio and strength training)
Balanced diet rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats
Limiting sugar and ultra-processed foods
Managing stress and ensuring adequate sleep
🧾 Bottom line
The message from Jitendra Singh underscores a crucial shift in health awareness: where fat is stored matters more than how much you weigh. Monitoring waist size and adopting healthier habits can significantly reduce the risk of serious diseases.