V. Mohan chosen for EASD Diabetes Global Impact Prize
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India.com
05-08-2025
- India.com
Nutrition Meets Policy: Dr V Mohan Conducts A Clinical Trial That May Change The Handling Of Prediabetes In India
A clinical trial by Dr V Mohan found that daily pistachio consumption improves metabolic health in prediabetic individuals, potentially changing diabetes management in India. One of India's most prominent diabetologists, he also doubles as one of the leading researchers, whose studies including a few landmark ones, were conducted at the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation (MDRF) under the sponsorship of the American Pistachio Growers. The research, released recently in the Journal of Nutrition, a good reputable journal, unveils the role of pistachios in improving the metabolic health of prediabetic individuals-the very important study with implications that could change the way India manages its ever-growing diabetes load. A unique study on prediabetes This was one of the first clinical trials conducted just for pre-diabetic individuals. Earlier studies had almost always been conducted on either healthy populations or on those who had complete diabetes, thus leaving an important gap in intervention at the early stage. Dr Mohan states that this is the moment when intervention matters greatly because pre-diabetics are mostly not yet so-called medically treated, allowing for much cleaner dietary interventions to be tested. Randomized 120 pre-diabetic subjects were selected and 60 of them put into control groups with instructions to avoid nuts altogether. Another 60 went into the intervention group and were eating 30 grams of pistachios each in the morning and then afternoon. Outcomes measured in the intervention and control groups were blood glucose levels, HbA1c or the three-month's average of blood sugar, lipid profiles, weight, waist circumference, and other metabolism-related parameters. Continuous glucose monitoring was also done to assess changes in blood sugar throughout a day. Surprisingly, without any weight gain regarded as expected with pistachios that have an array of calories, the intervention group noted weight reduction as well as waist circumference reduction, which means a lot from the Indian outlook where abdominal fat is very common. Triglyceride levels reduced while HDL or good cholesterol increased throughout the whole lipid profile. HbA1c dropped marginally by 0.2% which is a big deal for a lot of subjects going through pre-diabetic stages. Improvements were also noted in post-prandial glucose, thereby giving a concrete stand for cardiometabolic effects. Compliance levels were high with zero side effects Could the participants really adhere to this idea of eating nuts twice a day? The opposite seemed true as compliance was actually greater than expected. Compliance tracking included returning empty packets, phone calls, or even visits to the homes of subjects. A biochemical marker for pistachio consumption, MHP, was also used to verify adherence; it marked a 62% rise in the intervention group being studied. More than 90 to 95% were actually consuming pistachios on a daily basis. Equally important is that there were no side effects. Despite being very high in fiber and protein, they did not cause any kind of abdominal discomfort, bloating, or flatulence. Dr Mohan feels the good tolerability was noticed for the current dose of 30 grams twice daily. Attractive potential for rural India Though it is not really a replacement for medical treatment, pistachios certainly can be taken into consideration in improving dietary patterns in urban and rural India. Dr Mohan explains that the Indian diet is grossly carb-heavy-ranging from rice being considered the major culprit in the South and East to excessive consumption of wheat by the North and West. The downstream consequences are abdominal fat, insulin resistance, and weight gain. Healthy fats and plant proteins like in pistachios can go some way towards halting this downhill spiral. Nuts suppress hunger; therefore, pistachio snackers tend to eat slightly less rice or wheat in their succeeding main meal. Although this was a short-term study, its indication is that in the long run, pistachios could help delay or prevent outright diabetes. When to eat pistachios No hard and fast rule, but Dr Mohan claims based on experience that pistachios are best consumed mid-morning and in the evening-traits that occur about an hour before a main meal. This curbs hunger pangs so you don't consume a large lunch or dinner. Rather than reaching out for some unprocessed snacks such as biscuits or samosas, spritzing nuts seem to form a perfect union to fit within one's daily lifestyle. Advice for families with history of diabetes Doctor Mohan is quite straightforward: think about the plate differently. Typically, for Indian families, meals comprise refined carbohydrates such as rice and wheat. Instead, vegetables-such as leafy ones, should take half the plate; the other half should be split-between a quarter for proteins such as pistachios, lentils, or Bengal gram, and another quarter for carbs in reasonable quantities. This means, consuming pistachios approximately an hour ahead of the meal, which will help reduce carb intake but keep one from feeling hungry. This is somewhat similar to the Mediterranean diet; it is the very few diets long advocated for heart benefits. Calling it the "Indian Mediterranean Diet," Dr Mohan said. Nuts, once disregarded for their calorie content, now get applauded by nutritionists for many health benefits and should be part of one's daily diet. MDRF research on whose shoulders currently rests Pistachio trials are just a component on the huge researches in operation at the MDRF. The foundation carries out important epidemiological surveys across India on diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and cardiovascular disorders. Then there is genomic research with a special focus on one or another rare form of diabetes like neonatal diabetes in newborns because quite a few of these can be treated by simple genetic tests, which would technically fix their lives by whatever means necessary, including avoiding insulin. In terms of nutrition, they are developing ready-to-eat diabetic-friendly snacks. They are also committed to the development of digital health tools encompassing mobile apps, AI-driven programs, and community-based prevention models that will fit together with long-term diabetes care. International funding and collaborations The study was funded by the American Pistachio Growers (APG) and hosted by the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation. Dr V. Mohan, Dr Anjana Mohan, Ms. Sudha, and the food and nutrition team at MDRF actually did lead the work. Additionally, this study was done together with Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health where world leaders in nutrition science, Professors Shilpa Bhupathiraju, Walter Willett, and Frank Hu played contributing roles. Working very closely with the design and publication of this study, Professor Jordi Salas of Spain ranks as one of the world's top investigators on nuts. The next step Building on the very promising early results, the team from MDRF is deep into data analysis and planning for long-term follow up. The same team is aiming to implement long-duration protocols for a six- to twelve-month interval to confirm artisanal prevention of diabetes in pre-diabetics through consumption of pistachios. Another area they would want to look into would be the biological mechanisms of the benefits, more precisely, how pistachios interact with gut microbiota. Whatever turns up, it depends on whether it is the right time for a secured grant to take the research further, but this mark evidence at hand is giant steps in merging nutrition science into India's public health approach to diabetes prevention. (This article is from the Brand Desk. User discretion is advised.)
Business Standard
31-07-2025
- Business Standard
Food as Medicine: Dr. V. Mohan on the Economic and Health Impact of Pistachio-Based Diabetes Prevention
Dr. V. Mohan, one of India's foremost diabetologists and researchers, sheds light on the findings of a landmark clinical trial led by the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation (MDRF), conducted with the support of the American Pistachio Growers (APG). Recently published in the prestigious Journal of Nutrition, the study reveals how adding pistachios to a daily diet could significantly improve metabolic health in people with prediabetes—a discovery that could influence how India tackles its growing diabetes burden. Why Pistachios May Be the Missing Piece in India's Nutrition Puzzle? The Indian diet is largely carbohydrate-heavy, with limited focus on proteins and healthy fats. For a balanced diet, all three macronutrients—carbs, proteins, and fats—must be proportionately included. Among fats, trans fats (in processed foods) and saturated fats (like ghee and butter) are harmful. Healthier options include unsaturated fats: monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). MUFAs are especially beneficial for heart health and diabetes management. Unfortunately, Indian diets lack MUFAs. Pistachios, rich in MUFA, offer a healthy solution. Research now shows they help lower cholesterol, blood sugar, blood pressure, and waist size—contrary to earlier beliefs about nuts and weight gain. Pistachios and Satiety: A Natural Way to Control Appetite Pistachios are remarkably effective at inducing satiety, helping people feel full faster. When meals include natural, fiber- and protein-rich foods like pistachios, fruits, and non-starchy vegetables, carb intake naturally drops. For instance, someone used to eat three chapatis may feel satisfied with just one or two. This simple dietary change can aid in weight control, improve blood sugar levels, and support better overall metabolic health—making pistachios a smart, healthy addition. Reducing Healthcare Costs Through Preventive Nutrition According to the ICMR-INDIAB study, India has 101 million diabetics and 136 million prediabetics. If even half of the prediabetics develop diabetes, the total could exceed 160 million—leading to enormous healthcare costs, including medications, surgeries, and dialysis. Preventive strategies like pistachio consumption can delay or prevent diabetes and reduce heart disease risk. This not only improves health outcomes but also significantly cuts healthcare expenses for individuals and the system. The Role of International Collaborations in Driving Health Innovation Collaborations like ours with APG (American Pistachio Growers) are crucial for generating strong, evidence-based research. This study helps prove that investing in healthy foods—like pistachios over junk snacks—can lead to simple, impactful health improvements nationwide. An Opportunity for Indian Food Brands: Healthy Pistachio-Based Products There is a huge opportunity for Indian food companies to develop pistachio-based products. But they must be careful not to undermine the health benefits by adding excess salt, sugar, or fat. Pistachios should be consumed in as natural a form as possible, or blended with other healthy ingredients in a mindful way. Done right, this can help make healthier eating mainstream. The Future of Pistachio Research: Beyond Diabetes At the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation, we're studying how pistachios improve gut health, reduce inflammation, and lower insulin resistance. Long-term trials are challenging, so we're pursuing large-scale observational studies over 10–15 years to explore pistachios' lasting impact on heart disease, diabetes, and obesity in real-world settings. Can India Create Its Own 'Mediterranean Diet"? India can create its own 'Indian Mediterranean diet' with nuts like pistachios, healthy fats, and traditional vegetables—promoting long-term health by rethinking our carb-heavy eating habits. The Rise of Nut-Based Food Content Creators: A Boon for Public Health? We also need the help of social media creators and health influencers to spread awareness. If people understand that a handful of pistachios daily can lower heart disease and diabetes risk, this message will stick—and habits will change. Global Collaboration: Partners in the Pistachio Study Our study involved collaborations with Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and other global experts. These partnerships ensured that our research met the highest scientific standards, making it impactful and credible. What's Next for MDRF? Beyond Pistachios We're working on several projects. Studies on cashews, almonds, walnuts, and groundnuts Research on how much carbohydrate is safe, and what should replace it—protein, fat, or something else Childhood diabetes, gestational diabetes, and type 1 diabetes Use of AI and machine learning in reading retinal scans for diabetes-related eye diseases Physical activity innovations like Tandav, a 12-minute Bollywood dance workout designed by my daughter Dr. Ranjana, which uses HIIT principles We are exploring immune markers, inflammatory markers, and metabolomics. These studies are costly, but since the early results are promising, we're talking to funders to support continued research in this area. Conclusion: Rethinking Food as Medicine India must shift from treatment to prevention. Adding pistachios daily is a small step with big benefits—for diabetes, heart health, and healthcare costs. It's time to see food as medicine.
India Today
16-07-2025
- India Today
Are screens, ageing, and a boom in eye centres changing eye care in India?
There's a rapid surge in demand for eye care services in India, mostly driven by a combination of rising digital dependency, growing awareness, and an ageing population, say hospitals and clinics mushrooming across urban and semi-urban areas, ophthalmologists say the country's eye health landscape is undergoing a transformation, both in challenges and opportunities.'The rising population, increasing educational levels, sustained GDP growth, and the influence of mass and social media have all contributed to greater demand for eye care,' says Dr. E. Ravindra Mohan, Director of Gleneagles Eye Centre at Gleneagles Hospital, He adds, 'There has also been a boost from government and private sector initiatives and innovations in Indian eye care delivery systems.'SCREEN TIME, AGEING AND CHRONIC ILLNESSES: A TRIPLE THREATOne of the biggest contributors to eye issues today is lifestyle. The excessive use of digital devices from smartphones to laptops has led to a surge in Computer Vision Syndrome and dry eye disease, doctors rising life expectancy means more people are living long enough to develop chronic age-related eye disorders like cataracts, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy.'In children, we're seeing a rise in myopia due to reduced outdoor play and prolonged near work,' says Dr. Mohan. 'In adults, there's an explosion of patients with diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration—largely due to the increase in diabetes and the near-universal use of screens.'Dr. Jeewan Singh Titiyal, Head of Clinical Services at Dr. Agarwals Eye Hospital in New Delhi, adds, 'Longer life spans and digital overexposure are major factors. But so are systemic health conditions like diabetes, high cholesterol, and hypertension, all of which affect eye health. Even premature infants now face higher risk of retinopathy due to improved NICU care.'ADVANCED TECH IS TRANSFORMING EYE CARETechnology is playing a game-changing role in how eye diseases are diagnosed and treated. The revenue generated by the eye care market has mounted to Rs 591 crore (approximately) in 2025 till now, and it is projected for an annual growth rate of 5.12% from 2025 to 2029 (CAGR 2025-2029).From advanced imaging tools to AI-driven diagnostics, eye care is becoming more precise, minimally invasive, and accessible.'Ophthalmology involves considerable investments in diagnostic, meaning tools to measure, study and digitally document every part of the eye,' says Dr. includes lasers, ophthalmic microscopes, phacoemulsification systems and AI-based diagnostic platforms. "Diagnosis has become easier and more accurate, and treatment is now safer and more effective," he Titiyal agrees: 'We're using AI to plan cataract surgeries, calculate intraocular lens power, and even detect glaucoma and corneal diseases early. Diagnostics are now a vital part of our treatment strategy.'advertisementTHE URBAN-RURAL DIVIDE IN ACCESS TO EYE CAREDespite these advances, access to quality eye care remains uneven across Tier 1 cities are well-equipped, many rural and underserved areas still lag behind.'There is a clear gap, especially in states with lower per capita incomes or difficult terrain. States like Kerala and Tamil Nadu have managed to reduce this gap due to better urban-rural integration, but in states like Bihar or Himachal Pradesh, the disparity is wider," says Dr. are underway to bridge this divide. Dr. Titiyal highlights initiatives like improving vision centres and training ASHA workers to screen for eye diseases.'Telemedicine is helping too. Health workers can take eye photographs and send them to ophthalmologists for remote diagnosis. But we need more collaboration between the government, private players, and NGOs," he GROWING CASE FOR PREVENTION AND EARLY SCREENINGBoth doctors agree that prevention is the future of eye care. School screenings, community-based diabetic eye checks, and awareness campaigns could help catch problems before they turn severe or lead to eye care sector might be evolving with increased demand for services, but to truly meet it, there has to be a shift from treatment to prevention, from urban strongholds to rural outreach, and from conventional care to tech-powered innovation.- Ends advertisement
