• Underweight - a BMI under 18.5

• Healthy weight - a BMI of 18.5 to 24.9

• Overweight - a BMI of 25 to 29.9

• Obese - a BMI of 30 or more

If you have a high BMI, have difficulty losing weight, or are gaining weight despite a healthy and active lifestyle, consult your doctor to assess if you may have an underlying health condition that prevents you from losing weight in the same way as your peers.

Some health conditions that make it harder to lose weight are –  

• Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome – A condition that causes hormonal changes in the body leading to weight gain through insulin resistance. 

• Hypothyroidism – An underactive thyroid gland can slow down metabolism and cause weight gain. 

• Stress, Anxiety & Depression –Conditions that prompt you to eat more and therefore may make you gain weight. 

• Diabetes – This can be associated with an inability of the human body to produce enough insulin that helps digest sugar, or that the body loses sensitivity to insulin and its effects. 

Weight loss and consequently achieving a healthy BMI can offer a plethora of benefits in your life. Here’s a look –  

• You feel an increase in your energy levels  

• Working out or exercising becomes easier and more enjoyable 

• You feel an improvement in your sleep quality 

• Improvement in mental health, confidence, and a general feeling of happiness 

• You can avoid long-term illnesses such as heart diseases, blood pressure issues, diabetes, etc. 

• You can also avoid problems such as chronic joint or muscle pain  

If you wish to try weight loss medication, consider the below points –

• Calorie Deficit: To lose weight it is important to consume fewer calories than that burnt by your body. Even when taking weight loss pills you must be mindful of maintaining a regular calorie deficit in your diet.

• Regular Exercise: When taking weight loss tablets, ensure regular exercise with a mixture of cardio and endurance/strength training every week.

• Active Lifestyle: Generally, people who walk 10000 steps every day are considered active in their lifestyle and lead healthier lives. This is likely to assist you to lose weight.

• Nutrition: Eating a balanced, nutritious diet is important for maintaining your strength and stamina. When taking weight loss pills, look after your diet, try t eat healthy foods, avoid large portions and ensure that you are getting all the nutrients you need.

1. Orlistat– Orlistat is a prescription medication available in 120mg, to help people lose weight. While taking Orlistat it is required to maintain an active lifestyle and low-calorie diet. This drug is only suitable for people above the age of 18 years. 

2. Xenical– Xenical is the branded version of Orlistat, and has all the same properties. These medicines work by preventing the absorption of fat into your body, thus making you less likely to gain weight, and should promote weight loss. 

3. Alli– Alli contains the same medicine as Orlistat and Xenical. Alli is a lower dose preparation available in 60mg weight loss capsules.  

4. Saxenda– Saxenda is an injection containing the ingredient liraglutide. This is similar to the natural hormone produced by the human body after meals. It helps in suppressing appetite, encouraging you to eat lesser than usual. 

1. Set realistic goals

2. Limit your snacks

3. Swap carbonated drinks for healthier options

4. Find an exercise that you enjoy

5. Measure your progress

6. Be disciplined with your exercise and diet routine

7. Try intermittent fasting