Doctors say traditional Nepali foods could help reverse rising type 2 diabetes rates.
Lentils and rice once sustained generations with low levels of chronic disease.
Today, one in five Nepalis over 40 lives with type 2 diabetes.
Many cannot afford long-term medication or manage complications.
Small studies in Kathmandu show promising results from a traditional diet.
A calorie-controlled plan helped 43% of patients reach diabetes remission.
An expanded community trial shows similar success within four months.
Participants lost modest weight and improved blood sugar control.
The programme is led by University of Glasgow with Dhulikhel Hospital in Nepal.
Researchers use local foods like dal bhat and yoghurt.
Experts say south Asian genetics allow diabetes reversal with smaller weight loss.
They blame western processed foods for driving the epidemic.
Community support and traditional eating may offer a low-cost solution.
