Doctors say Nepal’s traditional lentil and rice diet could help reverse a growing diabetes epidemic.
One in five Nepalis over 40 now lives with type 2 diabetes.
Medication remains unaffordable for many families across the country.
Pilot studies in Kathmandu showed strong results from a calorie-controlled traditional diet.
Nearly half of participants achieved diabetes remission within months.
Researchers based the diet on dal bhat, yoghurt, and fruit.
Participants lost only 4–5kg on average.
The programme is led by University of Glasgow with Dhulikhel Hospital.
Mike Lean said Asian populations need less weight loss to reverse diabetes.
The approach relies on community support rather than hospitals.
Volunteers help residents measure portions and attend group sessions.
Researchers blame rising diabetes on western processed foods and lower activity levels.
They say traditional diets may work better than drugs for prevention and treatment.
