CASE STUDY & SUCCESS STORIES
Name: Namita Shetty
Age: 35
Location: California,USA
Case History: Namita, a 35-year-old woman, is diagnosed with class 3 obesity, with a body weight of 145 kg and a BMI of 50.8 kg/m². She also has a history of hypothyroidism and is currently on thyroid medication. Recent blood tests revealed elevated levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), indicating systemic inflammation, along with low levels of vitamin D. Namita’s primary concern is weight loss, as she hopes to conceive and also manage her thyroid condition more effectively.
Obesity of class 3 (morbid obesity) presents significant health risks, including an increased likelihood of developing cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, joint problems (due to the excess weight), and a higher risk of certain cancers. Additionally, obesity can complicate fertility, making conception more challenging, and may exacerbate thyroid imbalances, particularly in cases of hypothyroidism. Therefore, managing her weight is crucial not only for her overall health but also to improve her chances of successful conception and better thyroid control.
Approach by the best nutritionist / dietician in Hyderabad, Telangana, India Deepika Chalasani:
Our initial approach focused on managing Namita’s weight, as it was significantly higher than the healthy range. To ensure sustainable and effective progress, we designed a gradual diet plan that aligned with her health goals and emphasized slow, steady changes for better adherence. We began with a calorie intake of 1700 kcal per day of whole foods, ensuring it was a manageable starting point for her while providing 69g of efficient protein.
Protein intake is crucial for muscle preservation, and the quality of the protein consumed plays a significant role. Proteins with a high Protein Digestibility-Corrected Amino Acid Score (PDCAAS) are particularly beneficial, as PDCAAS is one of the most reliable measures of protein quality. This method evaluates both the digestibility of the protein and its amino acid profile, ensuring it meets human nutritional needs. Therefore, proteins with a high PDCAAS not only offer a complete set of essential amino acids but are also efficiently absorbed by the body, making them key for muscle maintenance and overall health.
Additionally, protein contributes to increased satiety, helping Namita stay full and reduce the likelihood of overeating. To further support her health, we included complex carbohydrates and fiber, which help regulate blood sugar levels and promote digestive health.
The National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) recommends 0.8 – 1 gram of efficient protein per kilogram of ideal body weight for adults, a guideline we followed to ensure adequate protein intake. Since Namita is an eggetarian, meaning she consumes eggs but avoids other animal products, we made sure to incorporate eggs as a key source of protein in her diet. Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein with a high PDCAAs score, supporting both her muscle preservation and satiety goals.
As Namita adapted to the changes, we progressively reduced her calorie intake to 1400 kcal of whole foods keeping to 69 grams of efficient protein per day with an 8 – 9 hour eating window and 15 – 16 hours fasting window . Whole foods allow the body to get into a fat burning zone and therefore feel satiated and no cravings for a long period of time. This reduction was done carefully to maintain a balance between weight loss and overall nutrition, while keeping the protein intake stable at 69g of efficient protein to prevent muscle loss and support metabolic health. The approach of slowly lowering calories ensures that the body does not undergo drastic changes, helping to maintain long-term adherence and preventing the negative effects of rapid weight loss.
To support Namita's overall health and weight loss goals, we incorporated a variety of nuts and seeds into her morning routine. This included almonds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, chia seeds, and grape seeds, which are rich in healthy fats, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, and provide essential nutrients such as vitamin E, magnesium, and antioxidants. These nutrients play a key role in managing inflammation, which was indicated by her elevated C-reactive protein levels, and in supporting metabolic health, especially important for someone with hypothyroidism.
Additionally, we included a variety of fruits in her diet to ensure an adequate intake of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The fibre helps regulate digestion and blood sugar levels, which is important for controlling weight and reducing the risk of diabetes—both of which are more prevalent in individuals with obesity. The micronutrients in fruits also support immune function, hormone regulation, and overall well-being, all of which are crucial for Namita's thyroid health and her fertility goals. This balanced approach not only helps with weight management but also addresses the underlying inflammation and nutrient deficiencies she is experiencing.
To ensure Namita received an amount of protein, we included a variety of protein-rich foods in her diet. These included whole eggs, egg whites, dals (lentils), legumes such as lobia (black-eyed peas), chickpeas, tofu, cheese, paneer, nuts, seeds, yogurt and quinoa. Additionally, we incorporated a protein shake to further meet her daily protein requirements. This diverse selection of protein sources not only supports muscle maintenance and overall metabolism but also provides essential amino acids necessary for her body's healing, weight loss, and thyroid function.
We also included complex carbohydrates in Namita's diet to support her energy needs while promoting satiety and managing her condition. These included quinoa, brown rice, and black rice, which are rich in fibre and slow-digesting carbs. Additionally, we incorporated nutrient-dense salads such as artichoke salad, bok choy salad, chickpea salad, and sautéed vegetable salad. These fibre-packed options not only help with fullness but also provide essential micronutrients, contributing to better digestion, blood sugar regulation, and overall health important for managing her weight and supporting her thyroid function.
To help her enjoy her favourite foods while staying on track with her health goals, we provided healthier alternatives like parfaits, date-based sweets, sourdough bread, whole dhal dosas, low carb pancakes, cakes and almond flour cakes.
In addition to the dietary adjustments, we provided Namita with essential guidance on the importance of hydration for maintaining a healthy metabolism. She was advised to drink one glass of water every hour throughout the day. We also instructed her to avoid high-sugar fruits and to maintain a 3.5 to 4-hour gap between meals to help regulate blood sugar levels and promote consistent energy. These strategies were designed to support her weight loss efforts while optimizing overall health and metabolic function.
Results
Within 1.5 years of following a balanced diet, Namita achieved a significant weight loss of 25 kg. She initially weighed 145 kg, and by adopting a gradual approach to weight reduction, she successfully lost 25 kgs with increased muscle mass and reduced fat percentage. She also went down by 5 sizes, despite holidays, visits to India, parties & weekend stays, which also led to a substantial decrease in her BMI, from 50.8 kg/m² to 43.8 kg/m². The slow and steady weight loss approach allowed her body to adjust without causing muscle loss or metabolic disturbances. Along with weight loss, her thyroid markers improved significantly and her doctor reduced her thyroid dosage, likely due to better weight management and nutritional intake, which supported her thyroid function. As a result, Namita began to feel lighter and more energized compared to her previous state. Most importantly, she achieved her goal of conceiving, and she continues to follow a healthy diet with us to maintain her progress. This comprehensive approach, combining nutrition, hydration, and consistent monitoring, was key to her success in both weight management and fertility.
Deepika Chalasani is a Clinical Nutritionist, Mind and Body Transformation Coach and co-founder of Fit4Life India, an integrated nutrition and wellness organization for Indians that provides complete solutions, addressing health and wellness challenges of individuals by working on their overall well-being. Deepika, best nutritionist in Hyderabad for weight loss and online dietician can be contacted via email deepika.chalasani@gmail.com or Mobile +91 9381525943
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