Benefits on Turmeric
You may be familiar with turmeric, a spice commonly used in Indian and Southeast Asian cooking. But did you know that turmeric has been used for medical purposes for centuries?
Turmeric contains curcumin, which is responsible for many of its health benefits. Curcumin has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it helpful in preventing and treating various health conditions.
First, turmeric effectively reduces inflammation in the body, including arthritis, heart disease, and even cancer. Turmeric has been shown to reduce inflammation in the body, which may help prevent the onset of these diseases.
Second, turmeric has been shown to have anti-cancer properties. Turmeric has been shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cells in test tubes and animal studies, and some studies in humans have also shown promising results. While more research is needed, turmeric may be a helpful adjunct treatment for certain types of cancer.
Third, turmeric may help manage certain chronic diseases. For example, studies have shown that turmeric can improve symptoms in people with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. It may also help manage inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Fourth, turmeric may help improve fatty liver disease. Fatty liver disease occurs when excess fat buildup in the liver can cause inflammation and damage to liver cells. Studies have shown that turmeric may help reduce fat accumulation and improve liver function. One study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that taking turmeric supplements (the active compound in turmeric) for eight weeks significantly reduced liver fat levels in people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Another European Journal of Pharmacology study found that turmeric supplementation improved liver function in rats with induced fatty liver disease.
So, which group of people should use turmeric? Turmeric is generally safe for most people to consume but may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners. If you take any medication, you must talk to your doctor before taking turmeric supplements. Additionally, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid turmeric supplements, as there is insufficient research to determine their safety in these populations.
Turmeric is not very well absorbed into the bloodstream on its own, and adding black pepper has been shown to increase its bioavailability. This means that consuming turmeric with black pepper can lead to higher levels of turmeric in the bloodstream, potentially enhancing its health benefits.
Turmeric can be incorporated into our diet in various ways. Here are some standard methods:
Fresh Turmeric Root: You can slice or grate fresh turmeric root and add it to soups, stews, stir-fries, salads, or juices. Fresh turmeric root has a distinct flavor and a mildly spicy taste, which can enhance the flavor of dishes.
Turmeric Powder: Turmeric powder is a convenient and versatile form of turmeric. You can add it to stir-fries, soups, and sauces or sprinkle it over salads, vegetables, or rice during cooking.
Make Turmeric Tea: Turmeric tea is a popular beverage that can be enjoyed daily. Add turmeric powder or grated fresh turmeric root to hot water and customize the taste by adding lemon juice, honey, or other flavorings.
Blend in Juices or Smoothies: Adding turmeric powder or fresh turmeric root to your favorite juices or smoothies can infuse them with flavor and health benefits.
Remember to use turmeric in moderation as it has a strong taste and color, and excessive usage may overpower the flavor of the food. Also, if you have any health conditions or are taking medications, it’s advisable to consult your doctor before incorporating turmeric supplements into your diet.
