Studies suggest a return to traditional Nepali foods could help reverse the country’s rising type 2 diabetes rates. In Nepal, one in five people over 40 lives with the condition, while medication remains largely unaffordable. Doctors say lentil-and-rice meals, once a dietary staple, show strong results in reducing and even reversing diabetes.
A pilot study in Kathmandu helped 43% of long-term diabetes patients achieve remission using a calorie-controlled traditional diet. A larger community trial shows similar outcomes, with about half of participants free from diabetes after four months. Mike Lean from University of Glasgow said modest weight loss of 4–5kg was enough for many patients.
The programme uses simple local foods such as dal bhat and relies on community support rather than hospitals. Researchers work with Dhulikhel Hospital and local health volunteers to deliver the plan. Experts blame rising diabetes rates on western processed foods, low activity levels, and dietary changes. They hope the approach can also prevent diabetes and serve as a model for neighbouring countries.
