Embrace diverse, indigenous foodstuff to combat Type 2 Diabetes

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The Uganda National Civil Society Coalition on Front of Pack Warning Labelling (UNCC-FOWL) has urged the public to prioritise diverse and balanced food items, with a focus on whole grains and indigenous foods to combat Type 2 Diabetes (T2D).

In a statement issued on Thursday, July 31, 2025, signed by CEFROHT's Dr David Kabanda, SEATINI Uganda's Jane Nalunga, FIAN Uganda's Dr. Rehema Namaganda and Kimera Henry, the team leader/CEO CONSENTA Uganda, a healthy plate should include a rich variety of vegetables, fruits, legumes and whole grains.

They also advise against reliance on one single staple food and instead embrace dietary diversity. This should be accompanied with reduced intake of sugary beverages, fried snacks, packaged foods and other items high in refined sugars, salt, among others.

Apart from observing meals, the team also calls for regular physical activity, while incorporating at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity into your daily routine. This helps maintain a healthy weight, improves insulin sensitivity, and enhances overall metabolic health.

Other tips of preventing diabetes according to the team include;

Cease tobacco use and limit alcohol consumption, as both are significant modifiable risk factors for T2D and other chronic conditions.

Reduce chronic stress, which can negatively impact metabolic health, and prioritise mental wellness as a key component of a healthy lifestyle.

Undergo regular health screenings because early detection is crucial for effective management and prevention. Regular medical check-ups to monitor blood glucose, weight, and other metabolic indicators are vital, especially for individuals with a family history of diabetes.

While managing the disease, they also called for responsible Science Communication and Journalism.

“Accurate reporting is essential to prevent the spread of misinformation that can undermine public health efforts. We urge journalists to consult qualified health and nutrition experts before publishing on complex scientific topics, to avoid sensationalist headlines that evoke unnecessary fear, and to focus on providing actionable, evidence-based solutions,” the team noted through a statement.

What causes Type 2 diabetes?

The development of T2D is influenced by a complex interplay of genetic, behavioural, social, and environmental factors. The primary contributors, supported by extensive scientific evidence, include lifestyle behaviours that lead to insulin resistance. 

These behaviours are the excessive consumption of ultra-processed foods, which are high in refined sugars, unhealthy fats, and salt, and leading a sedentary lifestyle with insufficient physical activity.