A recent study conducted by the Chellaram Diabetes Institute in Pune and Dr Kale’s Diabetes and Psychiatry Clinic in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar has shown that a combination of a traditional Indian diet and structured physical activity can lead to diabetes remission in patients with early Type 2 diabetes. The findings, published in the journal Diabetes and Metabolic Syndrome: Clinical Research and Reviews, indicate that 60.9% of participants successfully reached remission within six months without the use of glucose-lowering medication.
The study monitored 87 adults who had been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes for up to two years. Researchers implemented a "Local Healthy Moderate Carbohydrate" (LHMC) diet, which focused on familiar Indian staples such as lentils, multigrain chapatis, sprouts, nuts, fruits, and leafy green vegetables, consumed in balanced, defined portions. In addition to the dietary changes, participants were prescribed 40 minutes of daily walking and 10 minutes of deep breathing exercises.
By the end of the six-month period, 53 participants achieved remission. Clinical data showed an average weight loss of 4.67 kg among the group, while average HbA1c levels dropped from 7.32% to 6.27%. Dr. Vedavati Purandare, head of clinical services at Chellaram Hospital, noted that the intervention focused on eating traditional family meals rather than restrictive diets or fasting windows. She added that the patients who adhered most consistently to the walking routine saw the best results.
The research highlighted a strong link between physical activity and successful outcomes. Patients who followed the walking regimen on at least 80% of days had 8.24 times higher adjusted odds of achieving remission compared to those with lower adherence. Dr. A. G. Unnikrishnan, CEO of Chellaram Hospital, stated that the findings demonstrate the potential to manage the disease early through culturally appropriate interventions, though he emphasized that patients should only adjust their treatment plans in consultation with a doctor.
Key facts
- The study involved 87 participants diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes for no more than two years.
- 53 participants (60.9%) achieved diabetes remission after six months of lifestyle interventions.
- Participants recorded an average weight reduction of 4.67 kg during the study.
- Average HbA1c levels decreased from 7.32% to 6.27% by the end of the trial.
- The study was published in the 2026 edition of the journal Diabetes and Metabolic Syndrome: Clinical Research and Reviews.
Why it matters
The researchers suggest that these findings highlight the potential for affordable and practical lifestyle interventions in the management of early Type 2 diabetes. They note that a larger controlled trial is required to confirm these results.
Source: Indian Express
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