Have you put on extra kilos? Know how much it costs to cut the flab

livemint.com:

It is easy to gain weight but difficult to shed the extra kilos, say fitness experts. Weight gain brings with it a host of lifestyle-related diseases, including diabetes and hypertension. Obesity is also associated with arthritis and even heart diseases. Losing weight the right way, say experts, is the only solution to such problems. And that means regular exercise in some form or the other—walking, running, yoga, swimming, cycling, aerobics and workouts at the gym help cut the flab and keep you fit. And, there is dieting as well.

The cheapest way to lose weight is by going to the neighbourhood park for the morning walks, running and yoga. Some parks, particularly in Delhi, have fitness equipment as well and it is free for all. But, there are costs associated with gyms, cycling, aerobics and swimming. For instance, you need to pay a monthly fee to use the swimming pool or the local gym, or attend aerobics classes. Besides, you need to invest in gym wear, including running shoes. And If cycling is your passion, you need to choose the cycle that suits your style. They come in various ranges and prices. Visits to the dieticians and regular medical check ups add to your expenses.

Meanwhile, extreme cases of obesity require medical intervention that costs a bomb. A bariatric surgery could cost anywhere between ₹2 lakh and ₹16 lakh. Note that this type of surgery is covered by certain health policies, but come with some riders:

Mint spoke with a few individuals on their weight reduction journey. Read on.

Surgery and sports

Surat-based businessman Ankitkumar Bhamborliya, 33, slipped into a coma for three days in 2013. He was diagnosed with brain fever and the treatment that followed lasted a year, by which time his weight