What foods make Vegetarian Indians overweight?

Vegetarian foods are lower in calories and fats than non-vegetarian foods leading to erroneously assume that vegetarians cannot be overweight

Convenient vegetarian foods contain high amount of calories and fats. Over consumption of such foods is a major cause of obesity among vegetarian Indians. On a country basis world-wide, the largest population of Type 2 diabetics lives in India.

There are many factors that may lead to obesity such as lack of physical activity, but we will focus of foods. We will not focus on nutrition. We will focus on high calories fats and fiber.

There are four major causes for being overweight among Vegetarian Indians

Dairy products

Vegetarians are major consumers of dairy products: Milk, Yogurt, Khoya, Paneer. These are made with regular milk containing full-fat. Full fat dairy products are main cause for obesity.

Fried Foods

The foods absorb oil during frying process increasing calories and fats

Deep fried foods: Samosa, Pakora, Poori, Kachori, Gulab Jamun, Jalebi, Paapri, Goal Guppa

Griddle fried foods: Dosa, Pratha

Curries where Masala (onions Garlic Ginger and other vegetables ) are stir fried in oils and fats

Refined Grains

Refining grains have reduced amount of fiber slowing down the absorption of foods causing peaks and valleys in the blood glucose leading to hunger and consume more calories.

Refined flour (Maida) to make breads and snacks

White rice

Sugar

Indians love sugar. They must have sugar in the warm milk they drink, and of course any and all desserts they make. The sugar is a prized commodity and so are the jaggery and honey.