"The Dubai Stone": Why Expats Gain Weight and Top Tips to Manage It

"The two “Es” (meaning what one Eats and how much Exercise they do) are totally personalised factors which can only be modified by the individuals themselves," explained Dr. Jawad.

Calories consumed exceed the calories burned

The human body stores excess energy in the form of fat, leading to weight gain over time. This imbalance can result from overeating, consuming calorie-dense foods, and a sedentary lifestyle that limits physical activity and calorie expenditure.

Energy-dense, high-fat, and high-sugar foods tend to be palatable and easily accessible. Furthermore, frequent consumption of processed foods, sugary beverages, and large portion sizes can disrupt appetite regulation and contribute to overeating.

Lack of activity or sudden reduction in usual activity can lead to dysregulation of the body’s usual equilibrium leading to excessive storage of calories consumed in form of body fat. This goes in a vicious circle as heavier bodies are physically more reluctant to endure strenuous activity.

Exposure to food that are rich in cards and fat

Expats in Dubai may face a sudden change in their energy balance. Exposure to local cuisine (rich in carbs and fat), deprivation from native cultural foods, consumptions of processed foods, less intake of organic food items and easier access to fast foods are only some of the possible contributory factors.

Prolonged sitting and limited exercise

Dubai remains an ultra-modern tech-oriented living heaven for expats. The technological advancements, working from home, longer drive to work place and modern conveniences have led to a decrease in physical activity levels. Sedentary behaviors such as prolonged sitting, excessive screen time, and limited exercise reduce calorie expenditure and hinder weight management efforts.

Regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight and overall well-being.

A. Weight gain caused by an imbalance in hormone levels.

Hormones play a vital role in regulating appetite, metabolism, and fat storage. Imbalances in hormone levels can disrupt these processes and contribute to weight gain.

Common hormonal conditions that need to be excluded for individuals struggling with weight include conditions such as hypothyroidism, insulin resistance, pre-diabetes, impaired fasting glucose, diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and hormonal changes during pre-menopause/menopause.

All these conditions can affect metabolism, appetite, energy expenditure and increase the risk of weight gain. Additional adiposity-based complications like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, fatigue, menstrual disturbance and depression are also common.

Certain medications, such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, corticosteroids, and some contraceptives, have been linked to weight gain as a side effect.

Furthermore, certain rare medical conditions, such as Cushing's syndrome or acromegaly or adult growth hormone deficiency can also contribute to weight gain. But luckily, they are rare conditions and produce additional clinical signs which are easily identified by endocrinologists.

B. Weight gain caused by psychological factors.

Once the hormonal imbalance has been excluded one must evaluate individuals with obesity having psychological factors, including stress, emotional eating, and certain mental health conditions, which can contribute to weight gain.

Stress triggers the release of cortisol, a hormone that can promote weight gain, particularly in the abdominal region. Emotional eating, often as a response to stress or negative emotions, can lead to overeating and weight gain.

Additionally, conditions such as depression and binge eating disorder (bulimia nervosa) are associated with weight gain.

Such challenging conditions are rare but can be managed with professional help from endocrinologists, psychiatrists, psychologists, dieticians, or bariatric surgeons in Dubai.

Here are some additional tips for expat women who are trying to manage their weight in Dubai:

1. Set realistic goals. Don't try to lose too much weight too quickly. Aim to lose 1-2 pounds per week.
2. Find an activity you enjoy. Exercise doesn't have to be boring. Find something you enjoy doing and make it a part of your routine.
3. Make small changes. Don't try to change everything at once. Start by making small changes to your diet and lifestyle. These changes will add up over time.
4. Make gradual changes to your diet and lifestyle. Don't try to change everything at once. Start by making small changes, such as cutting out sugary drinks or eating more fruits and vegetables.
5. Find a support system. Having friends or family members who are also trying to lose weight can help you stay motivated.
6. Don't give up. Weight loss takes time and effort. Don't get discouraged if you don't see results immediately. Just keep at it and you will eventually reach your goals.
7. Get support. Talk to your endocrinologist or a registered dietitian for help creating a weight management plan that is right for you.

Remember, managing weight is a journey, not a destination. Be patient with yourself and don't give up. With hard work and dedication, you can reach your weight loss goals.

To consult with Dr. Jawad Bashir about weight management and obesity in Dubai, please get in touch below.