Cape Town, 30 Aug, 2023 (GNP): In a groundbreaking stride against the global TB epidemic, recent research has unveiled a powerful weapon in the fight against this stubborn disease – proper nutrition. Despite medical advancements, TB continues to pose a significant challenge, particularly in countries like India and Africa.
Two studies stand out, shedding light on the transformative potential of diet. A new trial in India, The Reducing Activation of Tuberculosis by Improvement of Nutritional Status (RATIONS), showcased the impact of dietary supplements on pulmonary TB patients. Results unequivocally demonstrated that a balanced diet could greatly mitigate the effects of TB and reduce infection rates.
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Further reinforcing the revelation, Stellenbosch University conducted a comprehensive study in South Africa. Shockingly, 1.6 million African lives were claimed by TB in 2021 alone. The research underlined the potential of a well-rounded diet in curbing TB’s devastation.
Over 10,000 households, harboring 2,800 pulmonary TB patients, received monthly supplies of essential food items, akin to a vaccine against TB. RATIONS trial’s findings demonstrate that better nutrition in the families of patients with lung TB lowered all kinds of TB by about 40%, and infectious TB by nearly 50%.
Significantly, this dietary intervention not only combated TB but also acted as a shield against various other ailments like anemia, respiratory issues, and diarrhea.
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A six-month dietary regimen brought a 60% decrease in TB-related mortality rates. Other advantages included higher treatment success and better weight gain. A remarkable 94% treatment success rate was attained throughout the six-month follow-up period, offering a beacon of hope for a healthier future. The message is resoundingly clear: proper diet could be the game-changer in the battle against TB.
