Beijing, China — Jessie, a 37-year-old freelancer living in Beijing, recently shed 5.5 kilograms during a weight-loss challenge. “I adjusted my diet over the past month, and now my clothes fit more loosely,” she shared. “I feel more motivated mentally.”
Jessie participated in the “Happy Weight-loss Challenge,” a public initiative launched by JD Health, an online healthcare service provider. The month-long program, held across 25 pharmacies in Beijing starting in April, promised cash rewards for individuals who lost over 2.5 kilograms by the end of the month.
The campaign quickly went viral on social media platforms like Weibo and WeChat, drawing long queues outside participating pharmacies. Even as the organizers increased the challenge’s difficulty due to overwhelming participation, enthusiasm remained high among young people.
“It’s encouraging to see so many people focusing on their health,” said Ms. Liu, a 29-year-old engineer who lost 3 kilograms through diet and moderate exercise. “It’s not about looking thin—it’s about feeling good and being healthy.”
Communities and universities across China have launched similar initiatives, including healthy weight-loss courses and promoting lighter food options. This trend reflects a shift among China’s youth toward prioritizing wellbeing over aesthetic ideals.
National Efforts to Combat Obesity
These grassroots campaigns align with China’s growing commitment to addressing obesity, a rising public health concern. In June 2024, the National Health Commission and other government departments jointly launched the “Weight Management Year” initiative. This three-year plan, part of the broader Healthy China strategy, aims to enhance public health literacy, foster healthy living habits, and create supportive environments for sustained weight control.
Obesity is more than a personal issue; it has become a global crisis. According to The Lancet, as of 2021, approximately 2.11 billion adults worldwide were affected by overweight or obesity. China had the largest number, with 402 million individuals. The National Health Commission predicts that by 2030, the overweight and obesity rate among adults in China could reach 65.3 percent, with related medical expenses projected to exceed 418 billion yuan (about $57.7 billion).
Understanding Obesity
The World Health Organization defines obesity as a chronic disease characterized by excessive fat accumulation that can impair health. In China, a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 24 is considered overweight, and 28 or above is obese, slightly different from international standards.
Obesity is linked to numerous health risks, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, reproductive issues, bone degeneration, and certain cancers. It can also affect daily functions like sleep and mobility, impacting quality of life, especially among the youth.
Expert Advice on Healthy Weight Management
Health experts emphasize that effective weight management is a long-term lifestyle commitment, not a quick fix. Zhang Peng, director of metabolic and bariatric surgery at Beijing Friendship Hospital affiliated with Capital Medical University, outlined three core elements for healthy weight control: diet, exercise, and sleep.
“Opt for lighter meals, reduce intake of sugar, salt, and fat, and practice mindful eating by chewing slowly and stopping when you’re about 70 percent full,” he advised. He also emphasized engaging in at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity daily, avoiding prolonged sitting, and ensuring 6–8 hours of quality sleep each night to support metabolic stability.
While medical treatments like weight-loss medications and bariatric surgery are becoming more accessible, Zhang stressed that these methods come with strict clinical indications and should only be pursued under professional guidance.
For many young people in China and around the world, the focus is shifting toward holistic health and sustainable habits. As Jessie reflects on her journey, she hopes others will join in prioritizing health over aesthetics. “It’s about feeling good in your own skin,” she said.
