Dr, Jai Kant Mishra, you are of Indian origin and a consultant in internal medicine presently working for the Apollo Bramwell hospital where you are also looking after overweight or obese patients. What is the situation as far as child obesity is concerned in Mauritius as compared to other countries ?

There are several studies conducted in Mauritius.  Some studies show that 7-9% of children in the age category 12-19 years are obese, and 8-10% are overweight. It compares favourably to countries such as USA where corresponding figures for overweight and obesity are 22-25% and 11%

What is the aim of the centre for obesity you are running at your hospital?

 To provide diet programs through our diet clinic. We provide educational programme for the long term consequences of obesity, as well as physical fitness at our health and Wellness centre.

What do your Diet clinic that offers in particular ?

  Nutritional assessment and nutrition education, tailor-made diet plans for  well being , personalised counseling and follow-ups, progress monitoring to help patients attain their goals

Do you cater for specific disease as far as nutrition is concerned ?

Yes, of course. We offer diabetes management,weight loss and weight management,nutritional management of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases, healthy eating during pregnancy and lactation, guidelines and tips to cultivate healthy eating and healthy lifestyle, guidelines to help you make the right food choices at work and at home, as well as nutrition education related to chronic diseases..

According to you, what are the main reasons for obesity and overweight in Mauritius?

 Sedentary lifestyle, long hours of TV, excessive food energy intake, lack of physical activity, genetic susceptibility in some cases, endocrine disorders and certain medications.

How much do you charge to overweight and obese people who have recourse to your Obesity Centre?

A consultation with a dietician or a doctor starts at Rs 1000