Tandoori Sep/Oct 2014 | Page 4

news Hot curry stops bowel cancer A study has found that a chemical compound found in spicy curries could help reduce the risk of developing bowel cancer. Researchers gave capsaicin, which gives chilli peppers their heat, to mice genetically prone to developing multiple tumours in their gastrointestinal tract. The capsaicin triggered a pain receptor in the cells lining their intestines, setting off a reaction that reduced the risk of growing colorectal tumours. Scientists found that the treatment extended the lifespan of the mice by more than 30 per cent. It was even more effective when combined with celecoxib, an anti inflammatory drug already approved for treating some forms of arthritis. Bowel cancer is the third most common type of cancer in the UK, with doctors diagnosing an average of 41,000 new cases of the disease every year. The study, published in The Journal of Clinical Investigation, recommended that patients at risk of getting colon or rectal cancers should be given capsaicin as part of their diet to inhibit tumour growth. Capsaicin is already used as an analgesic in topical ointments, where it acts as an irritant overwhelming nerves reducing their ability to report pain for extended periods of time. It is also used in pepper spray. Data observed by scientists suggests that individuals at high risk of developing recurrent intestinal tumours may benefit. came out top and the proceeds of the evening going to the international children’s charity, World Vision. Food was provided for guests by Madhu’s restaurant from Southall whose lamb biryani brought out the distinct and delicate flavour of mira ice. Tony O’Connor, CEO of Amira, said, “The calibre of meals served was exceptional and all the competing restaurants combined flavour in a way that was truly inspirational. It has been an honour and a pleasure for Amira to take part in this year s iffin u . Winner of numerous prestigious international awards and recognitions, Amira Nature Foods Limited was found in 1915 and is a family business that has evolved into a leading global provider of speciality rice with sales in over 40 countries. Amira rice wows the Tiffin Cup Launched this summer as the newest and highest quality aromatic, speciality, basmati rice brand on supermarket shelves, making its debut its debut at Tesco stores nationwide, Amira rice also wowed participants and guests at the iffin Cup Awards, by sponsoring the event. Hosted by MP’s Martin Horwood and the Right Honourable Keith Vaz, with a celebrity judging panel included Ready Steady Cook chef Ainsley Harriott and actress Nina Wadia, the cook-off event was won by Purpl