PAN South Africa Brings Evidence-Based Nutrition to the Good Life Show 2025.
Healthcare professionals and the public are invited to explore plant-forward diets for disease prevention.
The Physicians Association for Nutrition (PAN) is proud to launch its global obesity campaign, Nourish to Thrive: Overcoming Obesity Together on World Obesity Day.
[Cape Town, 28 May 2025] The Physicians Association for Nutrition South Africa (PAN South Africa) is proud to join the Good Life Show 2025 as a key supporting partner and participant, with a mission to equip both healthcare professionals and the public with the latest evidence on how plant-forward diets can prevent, manage, and treat lifestyle-related diseases.
Taking place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) from 30 May to 1 June, the Good Life Show will serve as a national platform to highlight the connection between diet and health, particularly at a time when South Africa is facing an escalating burden of non-communicable diseases.
According to the South African Demographic and Health Survey (2016), over 68% of women and 31% of men in South Africa are overweight or obese, major risk factors for both heart disease and type 2 diabetes. The International Diabetes Federation estimates that over 4.5 million South Africans were living with diabetes in 2021, many undiagnosed. Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death in the country, particularly among adults aged 35–64.
Nutrition plays a critical role in reversing these trends. Research has shown that whole-food, plant-based diets can not only prevent but also halt and even reverse chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. One landmark review by Le and Sabaté (2014) found that plant-based dietary patterns significantly improve glycaemic control, reduce blood pressure and cholesterol, and often reduce or eliminate the need for medication.
Throughout the weekend, PAN South Africa will host an interactive stall designed to help people better understand the clinical benefits of plant-forward eating patterns. Special attention will be given to how doctors, dietitians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals can support patients in making sustainable, nutrition-based lifestyle changes.
As part of the Wellness for Everyone talk series, Nadia Mulder, a registered dietitian and PAN South Africa advisory board member, will deliver a talk on Saturday, 31 May at 3:00 PM titled “The Role of Nutrition in Mental and Physical Health.” Nadia’s talk will highlight how dietary changes can support both physical resilience and mental well-being, underpinned by science and practical experience.
“Healthcare professionals will play a pivotal role at the 2025 show by gaining insights into plant-based, natural, organic, and wellness products and services,” says Heidi Warricker, Good Life Show producer. “Through direct access to experts in health and wellbeing, they will be better equipped to guide their patients toward healthier, more informed lifestyle choices, especially those centred on plant-forward diets.”
PAN South Africa will be joined at the show by other key public health organisations such as the Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa and Diabetes South Africa, all working toward a healthier future for South Africans.
“We want to make the public aware of the role of the non-profit sector, such as the Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa, in reducing heart disease, strokes and associated risk factors,” says Professor Pamela Naidoo, CEO of the Foundation. “Our special focus for the show is on Nutrition.”
Diabetes South Africa will also have an active presence at the event, engaging directly with the public to raise awareness and provide resources. Their activations will include giving out informative literature, selling recipe books, running a raffle, promoting membership benefits, and offering one-on-one advice to attendees.
“It is so important to educate yourself and others about the real facts, as opposed to myths of diabetes,” says Margot McCumsky, National Manager and Board Member of Diabetes South Africa. “Learn about prevention and good management in order to avoid further serious health complications.”
This collective presence of health-focused organisations at the Good Life Show underscores the value of collaboration in building a healthier society. In 2025, an increasing number of South Africans are opting for plant-based diets, and it's crucial that healthcare providers are equipped with the necessary tools and knowledge to support patients during this transition.
“We encourage everyone, especially health professionals, to visit the show and our stall,” says Dr Nanine Wyma, Executive Director of PAN South Africa. “Whether you’re advising a patient, rethinking your own lifestyle, or simply curious about the science, you’ll leave empowered with knowledge. Nutrition is a foundational part of health, and as we face rising rates of diabetes and heart disease, there’s never been a more important time to act.”
ENDS
About PAN South Africa
Physicians Association for Nutrition (PAN) South Africa, established in 2020, is the national chapter of a global medical non-profit organisation in over 10 countries. We work with health professionals, students and policymakers on the role of plant-forward dietary patterns for chronic disease, climate change and pandemic risk.
PAN South Africa Media Contact
Shaiyah Nosipho Luthuli – Communications Manager
Email: shaiyah.nosipho@pan-sa.org; +27 72 579 5222
