As weight-loss drugs like semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) dominate global headlines, a new nationwide survey reveals that 87% of Indian adults believe it is important to learn about non-drug-supported weight loss methods following concerns over safety and long-term use.
"As conversations around weight-loss drugs dominate headlines, many people are concerned about side effects and safety and are asking what options exist beyond medications," said Dr. Vanita Rahman, internal medicine physician with the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine. "A healthful, plant-based diet—low in fat and rich in fiber—can support long-term weight control without the risks associated with drug therapies. It's a sustainable strategy that equips patients with safer, evidence-based options for weight control."
The survey, conducted by Morning Consult on behalf of the Physicians Committee, also revealed gaps in understanding of the widely publicized GLP-1 medications.
Although 82% of respondents had heard of these drugs, only 18% could correctly explain how these drugs work. Many mistakenly believed they burn fat (26%) or speed up metabolism (20%), while 18% were unsure.
Concerns about safety were widespread:
- 75% had heard of side effects during use
- 69% were aware of risks after stopping
- 65% felt the media exaggerates the benefits
- 60% said drug-based solutions receive too much media attention
These medicines can cause nausea, vomiting, and constipation. Long-term and serious potential side-effects include a higher risk of gallbladder disease, pancreatitis, thyroid cancer, eye disease, and foetal harm. Research shows that 88% of individuals taking the medications do not achieve a body mass index (BMI) in the normal range and continue to experience obesity and overweight. Nearly 2 out of 3 users discontinue the medications within the first 12 months due to side effects, costs, and lack of efficacy. And after stopping the medications, there is rapid weight regain.
"There's growing interest in approaches that are rooted in science, safe for families, and offer long-term results. Plant-based diets reduce the risk of obesity among adults who are genetically predisposed to the disease, and can help people reach a healthier BMI," said Dr. Zeeshan Ali, PhD, nutrition researcher with the Physicians Committee.
The survey results comes at a critical time, following a recent study by the ICMR–National Institute for Cancer Prevention and Research (NICPR), which found that overweight and obesity tend to affect Indian families as a unit, not just individuals. The study, that analyses data of National Family Health Survey 5, emphasized the need for household-level interventions, rather than purely individual approaches.
"A shift toward plant-based meals could be the kind of shared dietary change that helps families improve their health together," said Dr. Rahman.
The findings point to an urgent need for public health initiatives that inform and empower Indians with safe, culturally relevant dietary solutions.
The survey included over 1,000 Indian adults, nationally representative by age, gender, geography, education, and urban-rural distribution, consistent with the latest Indian census."
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