Researchers at the ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN) have developed a unique poly-herbal extract mixture derived from multiple medicinal plant formulations that can help not only manage weight, but also prevent the progression of debilitating complications associated with diabetes and obesity, such as kidney failure, vision loss and nerve damage.At present, medical interventions for diabetes and obesity primarily focus on controlling blood sugar levels and reducing weight. Both conditions, driven by insulin resistance, result in similar physiological changes, including low-grade inflammation and oxidative stress.Based on extensive research into functional foods, ICMR-NIN identified bioactive compounds from five potent ingredients — ginger, cinnamon, black pepper, amla and turmeric — and combined them in precise proportions.“The management of diabetes and obesity must evolve beyond simple glucose monitoring. Our findings suggest that this poly-herbal formulation, with its unique combination of bioactive molecules, can not only control weight and glycaemia, but also effectively arrest the progression of long-term complications through multiple biological mechanisms,” said Dr Bhanuprakash Reddy, who led the study.Dr Bharati Kulkarni said the initiative marked a shift towards integrative health solutions. “We are currently evaluating its efficacy in clinical trials to translate these rigorous scientific findings into accessible products for human use,” she said.ICMR-NIN is also leading the “Let’s Fix Our Food” (LFOF) Consortium, a multi-stakeholder initiative aimed at addressing the rising public health concern of adolescent overweight and obesity. Moving beyond individual dietary advice, the initiative focuses on transforming the broader food environment to make healthier choices more accessible to young people.ICMR-NIN researchers note that Indian youth are increasingly exposed to environments that promote unhealthy eating. These obesogenic landscapes are characterised by the high availability of ultra-processed foods, aggressive marketing of foods high in fat, sugar and salt (HFSS), and limited access to affordable, nutritious alternatives.Experts emphasise that robust regulation, stronger legal measures and further research will play a pivotal role in protecting children from the harmful impacts of such marketing practices in India.The LFOF Consortium is jointly led by ICMR-NIN in collaboration with UNICEF India and the Public Health Foundation of India.