Delhi’s air quality is worsening after Diwali. The air quality index (AQI) crossed 400, considered in the ‘severe’ category, in many parts of the national capital. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the AQI was recorded at 433 in Anand Vihar, 410 in Ashok Vihar and 426 in Vivek Vihar. Dwarka, Patparganj, Jahangirpuri and Punjabi Bagh also recorded ‘severe’ AQI levels. NDTV report.

On the other hand, Lajpat Nagar, RK Puram, Lodhi Road and North Campus recorded AQI above 370, which is marked as ‘very poor’. The city’s average 24-hour AQI at 7 am on Monday was 373, a significant decline compared to Sunday.

An AQI between 0-50 is considered “good”, 51-100 is “satisfactory”, 101-200 is “moderate”, 201-300 is “poor”, 301-400 is “very poor”, 401-500 is “poor”. is considered “serious”. ” and above 500 is a “severe plus”.

Air pollution can cause many health problems and it’s not just respiratory diseases. From heart diseases to neurological disorders and more. Weight can also increase due to air pollution.

Here, take a look at Relationship between air pollution and weight gain,

Inflammation and Insulin Resistance

Air pollutants such as fine particulate matter (PM2.5) can cause inflammation in the body. This can disrupt insulin signaling, leading to insulin resistance which ultimately results in weight gain and obesity. Insulin resistance also impairs glucose metabolism and causes the body to store more fat instead of using it for energy.

hormone disruption

Air pollution is also known to cause hormonal imbalances, particularly hormones that regulate appetite and fat storage such as leptin and ghrelin. Increased exposure to pollutants may reduce leptin sensitivity. This provides a poor satiety signal and increases hunger. Over time, this imbalance can result in overeating and weight gain.

Oxidative Stress and Metabolic Dysregulation

Pollutants increase oxidative stress in cells, which affects the body’s ability to process fats and carbohydrates. Oxidative stress can also disrupt energy metabolism and lead to fat storage. In such situations, metabolic dysfunction can lead to weight gain.

gut microbiome changed

Air pollutants can alter gut microbiota composition which plays an important role in weight management. When you have an unhealthy gut microbiome, it can lead to fat accumulation. This imbalance in gut bacteria can lead to weight gain and obesity.

decreased physical activity

Poor air quality is one of the factors due to which people avoid outdoor physical activities, indirectly opting for a sedentary lifestyle. Decreased physical activity leads to weight gain because fewer calories are burned and muscle activity is reduced.

Appetite Regulation and Brain Inflammation

Exposure to air pollutants can cause inflammation in areas in the brain that control appetite and energy balance, such as the hypothalamus. This inflammation can disrupt nerve signals that regulate appetite and fullness, leading to increased food intake and cravings. This ultimately leads to weight gain over time.

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