Doctors say a return to traditional Nepali foods could help tackle soaring rates of type 2 diabetes. In Nepal, one in five people over 40 lives with the condition, while medication remains largely unaffordable. Researchers report that simple meals of lentils and rice, known as dal bhat, have helped many patients reverse diabetes with modest weight loss.
A pilot study in Kathmandu placed 70 patients on a calorie-controlled traditional diet and achieved remission in 43%. A larger community trial has shown similar results, with about half of participants free from diabetes after four months. Mike Lean from University of Glasgow said Asian populations develop diabetes at lower weights but can also reverse it with smaller losses than Western patients.
The programme relies on local foods, strict portion control, and community support rather than hospitals. Participants follow an 850-calorie diet for eight weeks before moving to maintenance. Health workers distribute measuring tools and run group sessions. Researchers blame rising diabetes rates on ultra-processed western foods, now widespread in Nepal, and falling activity levels. Funded by the Howard Foundation after UK government cuts, the four-year study aims to prove the approach can also prevent diabetes in high-risk groups.
