Top Reasons For Mumbaikars To Lose Weight Are...

As Mumbai battles rising rates of lifestyle-related diseases, a new survey unveiled at the Vegan India Conference 2025 highlights what's truly motivating Mumbaikars to lose weight. And it's none other than the healthy sensation of plant-based diets.

The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM) presented its latest findings during a keynote session by Dr Zeeshan Ali, a nutrition scientist and India Program Specialist. According to the data, although only 1% of Indian adults currently follow a fully plant-based diet, a staggering 84% are open to trying one, particularly if it's shown to help manage chronic health issues.

Among Mumbaikars, that number stood impressively high at 81%, pointing to the city’s strong potential for embracing diet-driven wellness.

Mumbaikars are eager but struggling with long-term weight loss

The survey, conducted by Morning Consult on behalf of PCRM, included over 1,000 Indian adults nationally and an extra 200 participants from Mumbai. The data reveals that while nearly 9 in 10 Mumbaikars have attempted to lose weight, only 22% have managed to maintain it long-term. This gap between intention and sustainable outcomes highlights the challenges urban Indians face when it comes to weight management.

So, what drives Mumbai residents to want to lose weight in the first place?

According to the survey, the top reasons were:

Improved energy

Better management of chronic diseases

Greater self-confidence

Each of these motivations aligns closely with outcomes shown in clinical research on plant-based diets, highlighting both the health and psychological appeal of dietary change.

Growing openness to plant-based diets

When asked what would most convince them to adopt a plant-based lifestyle, Mumbai respondents chose:

Safety (56%)

Lack of side effects (51%)

Scientific evidence of effectiveness (42%)

Ease of access and affordability (30%)

Dr Zeeshan Ali emphasised this growing receptiveness during his address: “This is not a resistance problem — it’s an awareness gap,” he said. “Indians are open to shifting their eating habits, especially when the science is clear and the cultural connection is respected.”

Indeed, India’s traditional food heritage already includes plant-forward staples like dal, sabzi, roti, and millets, making the transition easier and more culturally rooted than in many Western countries.

About the survey

The survey was conducted online between May 13 and May 20, 2025, among a nationally representative sample of 1,087 Indian adults, plus an additional 200 residents of Mumbai. The data was weighted to reflect demographics including age, gender, education, and region.

In a city where wellness often collides with hectic routines and fast food temptations, the message is clear: Mumbaikars are ready for a health shift. All they need now is the right information, accessibility, and motivation to make it happen.

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