Can Obesity and Diabetes Affect Pregnancy

Dr. Sunil Gupta spoke in detail about the growing link between obesity, diabetes, pregnancy-related risks, and modern lifestyle habits. He explained that obesity—particularly abdominal or visceral fat—is a major driver of Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, and other metabolic complications. Dr. Gupta expressed that Indians are especially vulnerable due to a tendency toward central obesity even at lower body weight, making early screening through BMI and waist circumference measurements essential. Dr. Gupta highlighted that unhealthy dietary patterns, physical inactivity, excessive screen time, and high consumption of fast food and sugary beverages are key contributors to the rising burden of diabetes among children, adolescents, and young adults. He stressed that gestational diabetes and poor glucose control during pregnancy significantly increase the lifetime risk of diabetes for both the mother and the child. Breastfeeding, regular physical activity, post-delivery weight management, and long-term follow-up were emphasized as important protective measures. Addressing common myths, Dr. Gupta clarified that diabetes is not caused by sugar alone but by sustained excess calorie intake, insulin resistance, and genetic predisposition. He also strongly warned against tobacco use in any form, stating that it accelerates diabetes-related complications such as heart disease, kidney failure, stroke, and limb-threatening gangrene. The session concluded with a clear preventive message—eat less, walk more, sleep well, and smile (to reduce stress) Expert- Dr Sunil Gupta Anchor- Bhavana Lokhande Podcast: 23/01/2026 Recorded at: Akashwani Nagpur Episode: 103