Will eating more curry increase your memory and happiness?
The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry has recently published research on curcumin and its positive effects on memory and mood.
Curcumin is found in turmeric, is classified as an anti-inflammatory with antioxidant properties.
Turmeric is a staple spice in India. It has been suggested that seniors in India have much lower rates of Alzheimer’s disease and a healthier cognitive performance due to their consumption of turmeric.
The exact mechanism of curcumin is not certain. According to Dr. Gary Small, the plant might reduce brain inflammation which has been Alzheimer’s and major depression.
The University of California in Los Angeles conducted a study of 40 participants with mild memory complaints. 50% of the participants were given 90mg of curcumin twice a day for 18 months and the rest of the participants were given a placebo.
Those who took curcumin saw a significant improvement in both memory and mood.There was a 28% memory improvement over a span of 18 months. A follow up study is planned with a larger population in hopes to investigate whether age or genetic risk for Alzheimer’s are potential factors.
For additional information please visit Independent.
Questions: Are you familiar with easy ways to incorporate more turmeric into your diet?
