Diabetes cases are increasing rapidly in many countries around the world including India. An important study is about to begin in Nepal, led by the University of Glasgow in Scotland, which aims to find out whether type-2 diabetes can be prevented or even reversed by returning to a traditional diet. Researchers say that reducing processed food and losing weight can prove to be a low-cost and effective solution for South Asia.

Type-2 diabetes is increasing rapidly

Type-2 diabetes is increasing rapidly in South Asia and other low- and middle-income countries. Experts are now trying to understand whether modern, ultra-processed and high-calorie foods are the major reason behind the spread of this disease. In this direction, the University of Glasgow in collaboration with Dhulikhel Hospital of Nepal has started an international project, which has been named CoDIAPREM.

Conclusion will come in 4 years

This four-year project will run from 2026 to 2030 and has received funding of £1.78 million from the Harvard Foundation. Led by diabetes and human nutrition expert Professor Michael Lean, the study will investigate whether adopting traditional diets at community level can prevent type 2 diabetes and whether people with pre-existing conditions can achieve long-term remission.

Cases increased rapidly in Nepal also

Till a few decades ago, type-2 diabetes was very rare in Nepal. Although genetic risk exists in South Asian populations, as the consumption of processed and energy-dense foods increased and people gained weight, the incidence of the disease also increased rapidly. Today it is estimated that one out of every five people above 40 years of age in Nepal is affected by Type-2 diabetes. It is difficult for many people to bear the expense of long-term medicines and regular check-ups.

What will happen in this?

The CoDIAPREM project will test whether people can achieve moderate weight loss by re-adopting a traditional diet and reducing processed foods. Weight loss plays an important role in the prevention and remission of diabetes. This program will not be based on hospitals, but will be run at the community level with the help of local volunteers, so that it can be implemented even in areas with less resources. The study will look at whether a traditional diet can prevent new diabetes cases, whether patients can maintain normal blood sugar for a long time without medication and whether this change is sustainable for many years. Initial pilot studies conducted in Nepal have shown encouraging results at low cost.

This research is based on global evidence showing a link between ultra-processed foods, obesity and insulin resistance. According to the World Health Organization and International Diabetes Federation, excess fat in the body damages organs like liver and pancreas and impairs blood sugar control.

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Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.

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