Doctors say a return to traditional Nepali foods could help tackle a growing type 2 diabetes crisis. In Nepal, one in five people over 40 has the condition, while medication remains largely unaffordable. Researchers have found that diets based on lentils and rice, known as dal bhat, can reverse diabetes in many patients.
A pilot study in Kathmandu helped 43% of participants achieve remission using a calorie-controlled traditional diet. An expanded trial in nearby communities has shown similar results, with about half of participants diabetes-free after four months and modest weight loss. Prof Mike Lean from the University of Glasgow said people of Asian background often need to lose less weight than Europeans to reverse diabetes.
The programme relies on local foods, portion control, and community support rather than hospitals or drugs. Participants receive simple measuring tools and attend support sessions led by community health volunteers. Researchers blame rising diabetes rates on western junk food, noting that most packaged foods sold in Kathmandu exceed healthy limits set by the World Health Organization. The team hopes the approach can prevent diabetes and be adopted across south Asia.
