Why do many Indians store belly fat more than people from other countries?

[Jai]

In most countries I don't see a big pot belly even though they eat a lot of fat and are generally overweight. Here in India, when people gain weight it's mostly around the belly. What could be causing this?

[Farhan]

Genetics play a role, but with the right lifestyle and epigenetic changes you can alter the destiny of your lineage.

[Arjun]

Our DNA doesn't have many genes for making extra sub‑cutaneous fat cells when we eat a lot of fat and sugar - which happens quite often. India's staple foods are heavy on carb‑rich grains.

Because of that, the body tends to store excess energy around the internal organs, leading to oxidative stress and many problems - lower testosterone, hair loss, and so on.

A big belly is a serious warning sign, and we should try to get rid of it quickly.

Edit: fixed grammar, added some words.

[Pallavi]

Because of the British.

[Deepak]

This should answer it:

https://youtu.be/taPJ2fvSzKY?si=7WK-_i9JswOCEKFm

[Sarika]

Just look at our plates - it's carbs, carbs and more carbs.

[Rakesh]

Our genetics are a big factor - thanks to historic famines.

[Nikita]

We've endured severe famines and droughts for centuries due to invasions, colonisation and natural disasters. That may have pushed our genes to favour fat storage as a survival buffer. I read a paper on this about 3‑5 years ago but can't recall the author. If you find it, please share.

[Laksh]

We need to upgrade our diet with more nutritious, protein‑rich foods, just like China did. China makes it mandatory for school children to get balanced meals, and the results show kids are about 2 inches taller on average than previous generations. In India, eggs are still seen as taboo and would spark protests if served in northern schools. Eggs are a super‑food, can be considered vegetarian, and should be a daily lunch staple for school kids.

[Tejas]

Too much sugar, carbs and dairy, plus genes that survived famines, make us overeat beyond our stomach's capacity. So we should eat mindfully, feeling each bite settle.

About 90 % of Indians don't get enough protein to build or maintain lean muscle. Even those who eat meat often have just 2‑3 pieces a day, drowned in oily curry and a mountain of carbs, yet think they're healthy.

Real solution -
Eat plenty of protein
Lift heavy weights
Do both high‑intensity and low‑intensity training
Don't stay idle; keep moving whenever you're awake.

[Riya]

It's a mix of a carb‑heavy diet and a strong dislike for exercise.

The food is mostly carb slop.

Many people of all ages simply won't move - I've seen folks call an auto for a 500 m trip, yet they need a maid to clean a tiny 1‑BHK.

I'm actually surprised the average Indian isn't in a worse shape.