The National Survey by the Medical Research Council followed 5,362 men and women since their birth in 1946, and 20,000 people born in 1958. The study measured weight and blood pressure and assessed the lifestyles of the people. “Both groups began gaining weight in the 1980s and since then people have been increasing in mass throughout their lives,” says Rebecca Hardy, member of the council.
The survey also found that weight gain varies in men and women to a great extent. For men, the process is persistent throughout their life and for women, it starts slowly and accelerates in the mid-30s. The study also adds that having a controlled diet has its own benefits. People, who try to eat less as an effort to lose weight, tend to eat better and exercise more — eventually leading to increased fitness and lower blood pressure.
Dr Ayesha Abbas, a well-known nutritionist in Karachi says, “A light dinner, which is rich in fibre is the key to a happier you. Crash diets leave you constipated and bloated, which has an adverse affect on your overall mood and health.”
Research conducted by the Aga Khan University Hospital in Pakistan, found that men and women prefer dieting over exercising and brisk walking, as it seems like the easiest option to control weight and blood pressure. However, doctors disapprove of crash diets, as these can lead to a loss of nutrition and proteins, as well as vitamins C and D, which could lead to heart or kidney problems. Doctors at Aga Khan University Hospital advise a balanced diet, which means avoiding grease and fats, eating green vegetables and making exercise and weight checks a part of daily life.