Latest news with #PhysiciansCommitteeforResponsibleMedicine
Time of India
6 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
THIS diet reduces the risk of diabetes, and it's even better than the Mediterranean diet
A recent study by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine reveals that a low-fat vegan diet significantly reduces dietary acid load compared to the Mediterranean diet. This reduction is associated with weight loss and improved metabolic health. The vegan diet, rich in plant-based foods, promotes an alkaline environment in the body, potentially aiding in weight management and reducing diabetes risk. What we eat plays a crucial role in our overall health and well-being. In recent years, the Mediterranean diet has been in the spotlight for its heart-healthy benefits among others. But a new study suggests there may be an even better option, especially if you are looking for weight loss and to reduce the risk of diabetes. A new study conducted by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine found that a certain diet significantly reduces dietary acid load, a key factor associated with weight gain and diabetes risk, when compared with the popular Mediterranean diet. The findings are published in Frontiers in Nutrition . Diet and diabetes risk The diet in question is a low-fat vegan diet. The study found that compared with a Mediterranean diet, dietary acid load decreased significantly on a low-fat vegan diet, and it was associated with weight loss. 'Eating acid-producing foods like meat, eggs, and dairy can increase the dietary acid load, or the amount of acids consumed, causing inflammation linked to weight gain. But replacing animal products with plant-based foods like leafy greens, berries, and legumes can help promote weight loss and create a healthy gut microbiome,' Hana Kahleova, MD, PhD, director of clinical research at the Physicians Committee and lead author of the study, said in a statement. The study To understand the link between a vegan diet and its effectiveness in reducing the risk of diabetes, the researchers conducted a randomized crossover trial involving 62 overweight adults. The participants followed a low-fat vegan diet or a Mediterranean diet, separated by a four-week cleansing period, followed by an additional 16 weeks on the alternate diet. The researchers analyzed the dietary records of the participants to calculate dietary acid load, which is commonly estimated by two scores: Potential Renal Acid Load (PRAL) and Net Endogenous Acid Production (NEAP). A higher score indicates a higher dietary acid load. The findings The researchers found that animal products, including meat, fish, eggs, and cheese, caused the body to produce more acid. This increased the dietary acid load, which is linked to chronic inflammation that disrupts metabolism and can lead to weight gain. On the other hand, plant-based diets, which are more alkaline, were associated with weight loss, improved insulin sensitivity, and lower blood pressure. Ronnie McDowell RUSHED to Hospital Mid-Show; Sudden Health Crisis STUNS Fans | WATCH They also found that both PRAL and NEAP scores decreased significantly in participants on the vegan diet, with no significant change on the Mediterranean diet . The reduction in dietary acid load was linked to weight loss. Also, this association remained significant even after adjustment for changes in energy intake. They also noticed a significant weight loss of 13.2 pounds on the vegan diet, compared with no change on the Mediterranean diet. The researchers said that the vegan diet's alkalizing effect increases the body's pH level to make it less acidic, which may also help promote weight loss. Such foods include include vegetables, particularly leafy greens, broccoli, beets, asparagus, garlic, carrots, and cabbage; fruits, such as berries, apples, cherries, apricots, or cantaloupe; legumes, such as lentils, chickpeas, peas, beans or soy; and grains, such as quinoa or millet.
Hindustan Times
22-06-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Cardiologist shares top 10 benefits of plant-based milk: 'Lower in calories, definitely healthier choice for the planet'
There are many types of plant-based milks available, such as almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, and coconut milk, offering a range of flavours and textures. According to Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, plant-based milks have benefits for the heart and the planet. Dr Alok Chopra, a cardiologist, weighed in on the benefits of various plant-based milks in an Instagram post he shared on November 27, 2024. Also read | Plant-based milk or cow's milk: Which is healthier and why? Study reveals surprising results Oat milk is a plant-based milk alternative made by soaking oats in water and blending them with water. (Freepik) According to Dr Chopra, many plant-based milks are fortified with essential nutrients. He also highlighted how plant-based milks generally have a lower environmental impact than dairy milk, requiring less water and land to produce. In his caption, he wrote, 'Plant based milk is definitely a healthier choice for the planet and for you! Packed with nutrients, easy to digest, and full of so many positives.' Dr Chopra went on to list the 'benefits of plant-based milk': 1. High in fibre 2. Rich in nutrients 3. Lower in calories 4. Eco-friendly 5. Lactose free 6. Good for heart health 7. Anti-inflammatory properties 8. No hormones or antibiotics 9. Allergen-specific choices 10. Digestive benefits Is plant-based milk good for you? In a March 2025 interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Zeeshan Ali, PhD, nutrition expert and research program specialist at the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM), said, 'The science is clear: Plant-based milk alternatives offer significant advantages for human health. As a nutrition researcher studying the effects of dietary choices, I've observed how these alternatives provide essential nutrients while avoiding the health concerns associated with dairy consumption.' According to him, plant-based milks offer unique health benefits: ⦿ Soy milk provides protein comparable to dairy milk and contains beneficial isoflavones that support heart health. ⦿ Hemp milk delivers essential omega-3 fatty acids, crucial for brain function. ⦿ Oat milk supplies dietary fiber and complex carbohydrates that help maintain stable blood sugar. ⦿ Almond and walnut milks contribute healthy fats and vitamin E, supporting immune function. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Hans India
18-05-2025
- Health
- Hans India
Structured online nutrition plan could offer hope in tackling India's diabetes crisis: Study
A structured, physician-led online nutrition programme may hold the key to combating India's escalating diabetes crisis, according to a new study published in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine. The research, led by Indian-origin physician Dr. Vanita Rahman of the U.S.-based Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM), underscores the potential of plant-based diets in improving health outcomes for diabetes patients, particularly in India's healthcare landscape. The 12-week study enrolled 76 adults with type 2 diabetes, out of which 58 completed the programme. Participants followed a plant-based nutrition regimen guided by medical professionals. The results were promising: 22% of participants reduced their diabetes medication dosages, average weight loss was recorded at 3.7 kilograms, and HbA1C levels—a key indicator of long-term blood sugar control—dropped by 0.6%. Moreover, for participants who were not on cholesterol-lowering medication, total cholesterol levels decreased by 15 mg/dL, and LDL (bad cholesterol) dropped by 12 mg/dL. These changes not only signify improved metabolic health but also highlight the effectiveness of dietary intervention in managing chronic conditions. India currently has over 101 million adults living with diabetes, with an additional 136 million in the prediabetic stage, making accessible and scalable solutions critical. 'India's diabetes crisis requires solutions that work within our healthcare realities,' said Dr. Rahman. 'While we've long known dietary changes can manage diabetes, implementing them has been difficult due to limited consultation time, poor follow-up, and access issues—especially in tier-2 and tier-3 cities.' The study aims to address these gaps by offering a structured programme that can be accessed remotely, eliminating geographical and logistical barriers. It provided participants not only with nutritional guidance but also with continuous support and practical strategies for real-world application. Dr. Rahman emphasized that this approach is particularly suitable for the Indian context. 'These results are especially relevant in India, where vegetarian and plant-forward diets are already part of the culture. With simple changes—such as reducing fat intake and emphasizing whole foods—this programme can be seamlessly integrated into Indian households,' she noted. The findings suggest that with the right support and structure, a shift toward plant-based nutrition can be a practical, low-cost, and impactful solution to India's growing diabetes epidemic.
Hindustan Times
11-05-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Doctor warns you might regain weight after Ozempic unless you do this
GLP-1 agonists such as tirzepatide and semaglutide have captured public attention for their ability to induce rapid weight loss. Studies suggest these drugs can reduce body weight by up to 22.5% over 72 weeks hence, it is crucial to be aware of potential risks and side effects that may emerge with extended use. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Zeeshan Ali, MD, PhD, Nutrition Expert and Research Program Specialist at the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM), shared, 'Gastrointestinal side effects—such as nausea, constipation and abdominal pain—are commonly reported. There is also emerging research indicating potential risks, including gallbladder issues and vision loss which warrants further investigation.' Emerging data also suggests the need for closer examination of the neuropsychiatric effects of GLP-1 agonists. Dr Zeeshan Ali said, 'Some early findings have raised questions about potential links to mood changes, including anxiety, depression and suicidal behaviour—particularly in individuals with a predisposition to mental health conditions or addiction. However, more rigorous clinical data is needed.' Studies show that without sustained lifestyle changes, many individuals regain the lost weight once the medication is stopped. Dr Zeeshan Ali explained, 'This is because these drugs primarily work by suppressing appetite and do not address underlying contributors to obesity, such as insulin resistance, consumption of calorie-dense foods, emotional eating and low physical activity.' He added, 'Financial accessibility remains another major limitation. In India, the monthly cost of these drugs ranges between ₹14,000 and ₹17,000, putting them out of reach for a vast majority of the population.' The good news is that for many individuals, long-term success with weight management can be achieved through dietary and lifestyle changes. Dr Zeeshan Ali elaborated, 'A whole-food, plant-based diet—rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients—has been shown to increase insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation, improve cardiovascular health and support sustainable weight loss. For instance, the BROAD study found that participants following a low-fat, plant-based diet lost an average of 12 kg in six months and maintained it at 12 months—without the need for medication or calorie counting.' For Delhi residents, Dr Zeeshan Ali recommended, 'Simple shifts such as returning to home-cooked meals based on legumes like rajma and chana, whole grains such as millets and brown rice, seasonal vegetables, and fruits can make a meaningful difference. Choosing roasted chana over fried snacks, or replacing ghee-laden parathas with lightly stuffed rotis, can improve nutritional quality of the meal without sacrificing familiarity.' While weight-loss medications may provide a short-term solution, long-lasting transformation often comes from sustainable lifestyle and dietary interventions. These changes not only support healthy weight management but also improve cardiovascular function, enhance gut health, stabilise energy levels and contribute to overall well-being. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
India Today
05-05-2025
- Health
- India Today
Plant-based diets can help Indians fight fatty liver, diabetes epidemic
India is witnessing a concerning surge in two chronic health conditions: Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD), earlier known as fatty liver, and type 2 now affects nearly 27.4% of the population, while over 77 million Indians are living with have said the combination of both diseases is dangerous, as it raises the risk of serious complications like heart disease, kidney failure, liver cancer, and To tackle this growing health crisis, a panel of global and Indian health experts has released new clinical guidelines focused on how Asian Indian patients can manage both diabetes and fatty liver more guidelines, published in the journal Diabetes and Metabolic Syndrome, place a strong emphasis on dietary and lifestyle changes, especially moving towards a plant-based INDIANS SHOULD RETHINK SATURATED FATSThe guidelines advise cutting back on saturated fats like ghee, butter, and coconut oil, foods that are often wrongly believed to be healthy. Experts explained that consuming too much of these fats can lead to increased liver fat, chronic inflammation, and higher risk of metabolic diseases."Insulin resistance, being overweight, and obesity are the main reasons behind both diabetes and fatty liver,' said Dr. Zeeshan Ali, a nutrition expert with the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM).advertisementHOW PLANT-BASED DIETS CAN HELPResearch shows that a whole-food, plant-based diet, rich in vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, and seeds, can significantly improve blood sugar levels and reduce liver fat. According to studies, people following such diets have seen a 30% drop in liver fat within just weeks, and many were even able to lower their diabetes one randomised study mentioned in the guidelines, 43% of people following a low-fat, plant-based diet were able to reduce their diabetes medications. In contrast, only 26% in the conventional diet group achieved the same result.'Plant-based diets target the root causes of diabetes, excess fat inside cells, insulin resistance, and inflammation," Dr. Ali said. "They not only support blood glucose control but also improve liver health and overall metabolic balance."WHAT THE GUIDELINES RECOMMENDEat more plant-based proteins like lentils, beans, nuts, and seedsFocus on complex carbohydrates like millets, oats, and brown riceAvoid saturated fats like ghee, butter, coconut oilSay no to alcohol, which worsens liver healthGet regular physical activity to improve insulin sensitivityMaintain a healthy body weightFor millions of Indians living with diabetes and liver disease, switching to a more plant-based, low-fat diet may offer a simple and powerful way to improve their health, without depending entirely on new guidelines provide both doctors and patients with a clear, evidence-based roadmap to manage these diseases better, starting with what's on their plate.
