Dr. Rangan Chatterjee advocates for reducing reliance on prescription drugs by emphasizing lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, stress management, and psychological therapies to address conditions like depression, chronic pain, and diabetes, arguing that many illnesses are driven by modern lifestyles and can be managed or reversed without medication.
A Japanese study found that seniors discharged on six or more medications, especially those over 80 or recovering from stroke, are less likely to regain independence during rehabilitation, highlighting the risks of polypharmacy and the importance of reviewing and reducing unnecessary medications to improve recovery outcomes.
A recent real-world study shows that a 5-day fasting-mimicking diet can improve blood sugar control, promote weight loss, and reduce medication reliance in people with type 2 diabetes, when supervised by healthcare professionals. The diet, which involves periodic calorie restriction, appears safe for most individuals but should be undertaken with medical guidance due to potential side effects and contraindications.
A study conducted by researchers from The University of the West Indies and Florida International University has shown that Enhanced Intensive Lifestyle Intervention (EILI) is four times more effective at managing Type 2 diabetes than medication alone. The program, which includes changes in diet, exercise, and psychological support, resulted in significant weight loss, reduced A1C concentrations, and remission of diabetes in the majority of patients. Nearly 90% of participants were able to come off medication within three to six months. The study highlights the importance of lifestyle changes in managing diabetes and calls for investment in alternative solutions and education on healthy eating.