World Obesity Day 2025: Chaat, samosa, and more — experts discuss how emotional eating is fuelling weight gain crisis in India

Are you a fan of momos, chowmines, and French samosas? Well, Indian street food is mouthwatering but is often deep-fried, contains refined carbs, and is loaded with unhealthy fats. On World Obesity Day, let’s deep dive into Indian food and weight gain.

Weight can lead to a wide range of health problems, ranging from heart health issues to mental health conditions. “It is a known fact that frequent deep-fried food consumption can lead to obesity and raise the chances of diabetes, heart disease, and stroke in later life,” says Dr. Manjusha Agarwal, Senior Consultant Internal Medicine, Gleneagles Hospital Parel Mumbai.

Hence, portion sizes are often uncontrolled, causing excessive calorie intake, and one can pile up those excess kilos.

Chaats, pakoras, namkeen, and samosas have high sodium levels?

According to Dr. Agarwal, “High sodium levels in chaats, pakoras, namkeen, samosas, and fried snacks can lead to hypertension, which is a risk factor for stroke and heart attack. It is imperative to practice portion control and opt for roasted, grilled, or steamed options.”

Go for fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, pulses, and lentils, and avoid junk, oily, canned, and processed foods. Say no to binge eating due to stress; instead, eat whole foods. Be mindful and pay attention to your nutrition. It is essential to eat a nutritious diet to maintain an optimum weight and lead a healthy life. Stay vigilant and healthy.

Impact of emotional eating in Indian families

For Indians, food is more than just nourishment, as it is woven into the fabric of daily life, celebrations, and even moments of distress. Whether it’s a plate of sweets offered during the festivals or your comfort food or hai and snacks shared over conversations, food often becomes an emotional anchor.

However, when stress, anxiety, or loneliness drive the need to eat, it can lead to unhealthy patterns. “Emotional eating—using food for comfort rather than nourishment—can result in weight gain, acidity, and lifestyle diseases like diabetes. The struggle is real, and many women find themselves caught in a cycle of guilt, cravings, and an inability to control their eating habits,” notes Dr. Aparna Govil Bhasker, Consultant Bariatric and Laparoscopic Surgeon, MetaHeal - Laparoscopy and Bariatric Surgery Center, Mumbai; Saifee, Apollo, and Namaha Hospitals, Mumbai.

Dr. Bhasker further adds, “Family dynamics play a crucial role in emotional eating. Women often juggle multiple responsibilities—managing the home, work, children, and caregiving—while also dealing with unspoken emotional burdens.”