Is Turmeric Worth It?
Is Turmeric Worth It?
Turmeric...What is it and why is it becoming a subject of discussion? In this Blog, I have attempted to capture many of the important facts, so that you can decide for yourself whether it is worth talking about, or not!
Turmeric is a plant that belongs to the ginger family. Curcumin is the main active ingredient in it. It has been used in East India and the Middle East for thousands of years, and is now one of the most highly-prized spices in the world. Turmeric is a major ingredient in Indian curries, and what makes American mustard yellow. Aside from its many uses to also color butters and cheeses, evidence is accumulating that this bright yellow-orange spice is a promising disease-preventive agent, probably due, largely, to its anti-inflammatory action and strong antioxidant effects.
Turmeric is also packed with several nutrients, including dietary fiber, sodium, vitamin C, E, K, calcium, iron, zinc and magnesium. Due to all these properties, this bright orange-colored spice works great in treating lots of different health problems.
Here are some evidence-based benefits of turmeric:
1) Speeds up the healing process of wounds of the skin due to its antiseptic properties.
2) It has been shown to inhibit cancer cell growth –specifically cancer of the breast, colon, prostate, lung, and childhood leukemia – are also on the list of possible benefits.
3) Turmeric can be used in treating diabetes, particular type-2 diabetes by helping reduce insulin resistance. This may promote metabolism and help you lose weight as its effectiveness in reducing insulin resistance is key to weight loss.
4) Relief from joint pain, such as rheumatoid arthritis, reduced joint swelling, and greater range of motion when used regularly.
5) Turmeric can increase the production of bile by the gallbladder, and since the liver uses bile to detox the blood, this factor supports good liver health.
6) Many studies have proven the turmeric’s effects in preventing Alzheimer’s disease. Turmeric contains several agents that block the formation of beta-amyloid, which is responsible for the plaques that slowly obstruct cerebral function in Alzheimer’s disease.
7) The presence of curcumin makes turmeric good for treating depression, as curcumin may increase the serotonin levels, which does well in the regulation of memory, sleep and mood.
8) Maintaining cholesterol at a healthy level can prevent many kinds of diseases, and turmeric has been shown to reduce serum cholesterol levels.
9) Relieving indigestion with an improved ability to digest fats, reducing gas and bloating.
10) Improved skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne.
Fun Facts:
A study in 60 depressed patients showed that curcumin was as effective as prozac in alleviating the symptoms of depression.
In one study, 121 patients who were undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery were randomized to either placebo or 4 grams of curcumin per day, a few days before and after the surgery. The curcumin group had a 65% decreased risk of experiencing a heart attack in the hospital.
If you mix one teaspoon of turmeric in a glass of hot water and drink it, it would make you feel better sooner if you’re suffering from a cold or flu. This is due to its content lipopolysaccharide, which is an immunity booster.
Since curcumin helps prevent heart disease, cancer and Alzheimer’s… then this would have obvious benefits for longevity. For this reason, it has become very popular as an anti-aging supplement.
How to get turmeric in your diet:
To get the most of what turmeric has to offer, it is best assimilated and absorbed if it is taken with black pepper, fats such as coconut oil, flaxseed or olive oil.
Use it as a spice to enhance many dishes. Turmeric can add delicious complexity to mashed dishes like potatoes or cauliflower, sauté with onions, broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers. It can be used as a base for creamy vegetable dips and sauces. Add it to your rice as it will give it a rich flavor and color.
Buy the root itself, grate it on your cooked dishes or salads, add it to your smoothies or juice it.
There are also extracts in tablet and capsule forms available in health food stores; look for extracts in dosages of 400 to 600 mg, and take as directed on the product.
Do you think turmeric will become a preferred spice in your kitchen? Are you willing to try it? Whichever way you choose to add it to your diet, it would be one of the best moves you take toward optimal health.
A word of caution:
Certain supplements, including turmeric, can interact with other medications, especially when consumed in large quantities. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), turmeric may slow blood clotting, so people taking drugs with the same effect should be cautious about taking turmeric supplements. Pregnant women should also avoid taking large amounts of turmeric. And of course, it's always a good idea to talk to your doctor before starting any kind of supplements.
Until I write you again, I wish you health, wellness and happiness!
