New survey reveals 91% of Bengaluru adults would prefer a plant-based diet over injectable drugs for weight loss

Bengaluru, July 30, 2025: A new survey by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine found that 91% of Bengaluru residents would prefer a plant-based approach to weight loss over injectable drugs—if backed by strong evidence.

These survey responses closely align with findings from peer-reviewed studies, which have linked plant-based diets to lower body mass index and reduced risk of conditions such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

“A low-fat, plant-based diet is a research-proven way to get abundant nutrients, improve your weight, and achieve overall health in the long term. This is because plant foods such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains in their natural form are fiber rich, have no cholesterol, and are low in sodium,” explained Dr. Zeeshan Ali, research specialist with the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine.

Excess weight remains a common struggle in the city, with the survey finding 89% of people had tried losing weight at least once in their life. But only 27% of those who tried to lose weight kept it off long-term. Around 35% of the city’s adults reported that they currently have excess weight.

When asked about the biggest barrier to weight loss, 46% pointed to the availability of unhealthy food, which is too convenient and affordable.

The survey findings are consistent with previously available research and data. A recent study on adolescent obesity in India found that overweight and obesity rates are higher in urban areas of southern states, with factors like poor diets, sedentary habits, and increased access to high-calorie foods driving the trend.

These patterns often affect entire households in cities like Bengaluru, making family-wide dietary changes—such as adopting more plant-based foods—an effective way to improve overall health.

Another finding is that while many Bengaluru residents were aware of injectable weight loss medications, most were unclear about how they actually work. Although 79% said they were aware of potential side effects during use, and 73% after stopping them, many felt that public conversations around them were unbalanced.

Reflecting this concern, 97% of respondents agreed on the need for greater public education on sustainable, non-drug-based weight management. In fact, 75% felt media coverage tends to overstate the effectiveness of injectable weight loss drugs.

The findings point to a growing opportunity to inspire healthier, long-term lifestyle choices in Bangalore through credible, nutrition-focused education and awareness.