Losing weight is never easy, but thousands of Bhutanese are finding hope and support in a Telegram group that is changing lives. Named “Motey Group”, the social media group has grown from just 300 members in December last year to more than 11,000 today. The group offers free guidance on healthy eating and exercise, and its members say it has changed their lives.
When Tenzin Wangmo stepped on the weighing scale last December, the number staring back at her read 87 kilogrammes. Her health was deteriorating, and her confidence was at its lowest.
Today, nine months later, she proudly carries 65 kilogrammes and beams with a smile that says it all; she feels lighter, healthier, and happier. This is just one of many success stories from the growing online community.
“Sometimes we decide not to give in to our cravings, but we end up eating them anyway. After joining Motey Group, we get proper guidance on what to eat and what to avoid. Moreover, when other members in the group lose weight, it motivates us as well to follow a healthier lifestyle.”
Like Tenzin, thousands have seen their lives transformed. She mentioned that around 8,000 members have lost a minimum of 10 kilogrammes so far.
For Dema Lhamo, who once weighed 76 kilogrammes and now stands at 56, the changes go beyond physical appearance.
“Before, I used to feel less confident in public places, but now I feel comfortable going out and even wearing clothes has become much easier. Many people think losing weight is only about looking pretty, but for me, it’s more about becoming healthier.”
The group, founded by an entrepreneur, popularly known as Japan Ana, has become a revolution in tackling obesity for many Bhutanese and those living abroad.
“I started this group because I felt I couldn’t lose weight alone without proper motivation. Real motivation comes from people who share similar challenges. At first, there were only three or four of us, and I never imagined it would grow this big,” said Deki Yangzom, Founder, Motey Group.
The rules of the group are simple. After joining, the members are encouraged to follow intermittent fasting, an eating plan that alternates between fasting and eating on a regular schedule. However, the founder first considers each member’s health before asking them to follow the plan.
Members also share photos of their meals before eating. And a certified sports nutritionist, who is also part of the group, gives feedback on whether the portion is balanced and healthy.
“Motey Group is safe because we never allow anyone to take weight-loss medicines that could be harmful to the body in the long run. We also make sure to eat at the right time during fasting. We may not be experts ourselves, but we have a sports nutritionist, Yogini, who guides us,” said Deki Yangzom, Founder, Motey Group.
Alongside diet tips, members also receive guidance on simple home-friendly exercises such as walking, jump rope and stretches.
“We usually eat fresh and green vegetables, and personally, I do exercises like walking since I cannot do other exercises. Before, I used to have trouble walking and travelling to places, but now it’s reduced. Before, I used to have high blood pressure, and now it has come to normal,” said Chekimo, Member, Motey Group.
According to a nutritionist from JDWNRH, intermittent fasting is a trending dietary pattern shown to support weight loss, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce inflammation in some individuals. However, risks include nutrient deficiencies, hypoglycemia in diabetics on medication, fatigue, and possible disordered eating patterns. Long-term consequences remain unclear due to limited studies, especially regarding sustainability and metabolic health beyond 1–2 years. If may be suitable for generally healthy adults seeking weight or metabolic control, but it is not recommended for children, adolescents, pregnant or lactating women, the elderly with frailty, or individuals with chronic illnesses without medical supervision.
According to the WHO, being overweight and obese are the leading risk factors contributing to heart disease, stroke, and chronic kidney disease.
As more Bhutanese join the Group each day, it has become a space where people discover discipline, community, and a renewed sense of self-worth.
Kinley Bidha
Edited by Sonam Pem
