A return to traditional Nepali foods could help curb the country’s growing type 2 diabetes crisis, researchers say. In Nepal, one in five people over 40 has diabetes, while medication remains largely unaffordable. Doctors now believe diets based on lentils and rice, long eaten by earlier generations, can reverse the condition for many.
Pilot studies in Kathmandu and nearby communities showed that around half of participants achieved remission after following a calorie-controlled traditional diet. The approach forms part of a wider four-year study led by the University of Glasgow with Dhulikhel Hospital. Prof Mike Lean said modest weight loss of 4–5kg was often enough to reverse diabetes in Nepali patients.
Researchers say the rise in diabetes links closely to western processed foods and reduced physical activity. The programme relies on community support, local ingredients and portion control, rather than hospitals or drugs. Experts hope the model could also help prevent diabetes and inspire similar efforts across south Asia.
