Doctors say a return to Nepal’s traditional lentil-and-rice diet could help reverse a rapidly growing type 2 diabetes epidemic. Around one in five Nepalis over 40 now lives with the condition, driven largely by western-style processed foods and lower activity levels. Medication is often unaffordable, making diabetes a serious social and economic burden.
Small studies in Kathmandu and nearby communities show promising results. A pilot trial helped 43% of long-term diabetes patients achieve remission using a calorie-controlled traditional diet. An ongoing community study reports similar outcomes, with about half of participants free from diabetes after four months and modest weight loss.
The research is led by the University of Glasgow in partnership with Dhulikhel Hospital. Professor Mike Lean said people of south Asian background develop diabetes at lower weights but can also reverse it with smaller weight loss. Participants followed an eight-week 850-calorie plan based on yoghurt, fruit, lentils and rice, before moving to a maintenance diet.
The programme relies on simple tools, portion control and community support rather than hospitals or drugs. Researchers blame rising diabetes rates on imported junk food, noting that most packaged foods in Kathmandu exceed World Health Organization limits for sugar, fat or salt. Funded by the Howard Foundation after UK cuts, the team hopes the approach could prevent diabetes and inspire similar efforts across south Asia.
