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Turmeric, curcumin could help delay cataract: Study

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Studies by NIN over the years have shown that curcumin has anti-inflammatory, anti-viral properties, and lowers cholesterol, glucose and is anti-infectious. It is also effective in combating carcinogenesis, or cancer.

HERBAL CURE

Hyderabad , March 15

Turmeric, the common ingredient in Indian foods, could well be helpful in delaying the onset of cataract, an eye problem of the ageing populations, especially in our country.

Studies by the Hyderabad-based, National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) here on rats have clearly demonstrated that turmeric and curcumin were effective in delaying diabetic cataract.

The intake required was also the average that most people normally would be having daily. The NIN researchers attributed the antioxidant effect of curcumin and turmeric for this beneficial effect.

For ages, turmeric has been in use in India to spice up preparations. It has also established itself as traditional medicine and is widely used as home remedy for various problems. Curcumin, an active ingredient of turmeric, has antioxidant properties.

Studies by NIN over the years have shown that curcumin has anti-inflammatory, anti-viral properties, and lowers cholesterol, glucose and is anti-infectious. It is also effective in combating carcinogenesis, or cancer.

Cataract is a typical problem of the aged. Risk factors include diabetes, nutritional deficiencies, excess sun light exposure, genetic factors, steroids use etc. Studies have indicated that diabetes and the duration of the problem increase the risk of formation of cataract. In the present study on rats, NIN researchers - Mr G. Bhanuprakash Reddy and Mr P. Suryanarayana - also found that turmeric and curcumin could well provide a viable food-based, as well as medical approach in the treatment of complications arising out of long-term diabetes.

Since, the only treatment for cataract at present is surgery, if it can be delayed by 10 years, the need for surgery could be halved. The big advantage also lies in the fact that delay of cataract has an overall beneficial effect on health.

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