The Role of a Plant-Based Diet In Healing Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes, a chronic disease affecting millions worldwide, has been increasingly linked to dietary choices. Research, including Africa’s first academic study initiated by Ubuntu Wellness, underscores the potential of whole plant-based diets in healing this condition. 

Understanding Diabetes and its Impact 

Diabetes occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin or cannot utilise it effectively, leading to elevated blood sugar. This condition can cause damage to vital organs and is a leading cause of death globally. Type 2 diabetes, characterised by insulin resistance, is the most common form and is heavily influenced by lifestyle factors such as diet and physical activity. 

In the 1960s, Dr Denis Burkitt, who worked as a missionary surgeon in Uganda, observed and reported that there were simply no diabetes, hypertension, obesity or other lifestyle diseases prevalent in the population. Known as ‘The Fibre Man’, he put this down to the healing powers of  food – particularly fibrous plants and the lack of meat in the daily diet.  

The Role of Plant-Based Diets in Diabetes Management 

Plant-based diets rich in fruit, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, have been recognised for their benefits in managing diabetes. Dr Laurie Marbas, Senior Editor of the International Journal of Disease Reversal and Prevention, highlights the effectiveness of such diets in improving health outcomes for diabetes patients in an article on ‘The Science of Diabetes’ in Ubuntu Wellness’ new recipe book, Healing Diabetes and Other Lifestyle Diseases - Cooking Africa’s Plant-based Whole Foods. This food as medicine approach addresses the root cause of type 2 diabetes - fat accumulation in the muscle cells leading to insulin resistance. By reducing saturated fats found in animal products and increasing nutrient-dense plant foods, the body's insulin function can be improved, and the progression of diabetes can be halted or even reversed.