Let’s Talk About Turmeric

For today’s mental nourishment post, we are discussing turmeric. This yellow powder is what gives curry and other dishes that distinct golden color. Apart from cuisine, turmeric has been used as medicine in India for centuries. There are many health benefits from consuming turmeric that has piqued the interest of science. Benefits include anti-inflammatory, aide digestion, and may even be able to prevent cancer. There is a difference in the usage of turmeric supplements versus turmeric powder because the supplements are more potent. Adding turmeric powder to your diet, however, is still beneficial for your overall health. Check out How to Enjoy Turmeric as A Beverage for some recipe ideas on how to utilize turmeric.

Please note that this post is interested in learning and exploring the stated health/medical practice or health benefits out of interest from a scientific point of view. Always talk to your doctor.

The Health Benefits of Turmeric

The key components that makes turmeric so beneficial are the curcuminoids that are found in turmeric. Of these, curcumin is the most important as it is the main active component. Curcumin makes up 3% of turmeric by weight. This curcuminoid has difficulties being absorbed into the blood stream, however, when consumed with black pepper the piperine in the black pepper works to enhance the body’s ability to absorb curcumin. Curcumin is also fat soluble, meaning it is easier to absorb when consumed with fatty foods.

Turmeric is an Anti-Inflammatory

Turmeric is an anti-inflammatory. Simply speaking, the chronic inflammation that can be caused by heart disease, cancer, arthritis, or Alzheimer’s is bad for the body. Curcumin can prevent the molecules that cause inflammation from harming the body. With heart disease, for instance, curcumin works to improve the blood vessel lining. In turn this helps to reduce blood pressure and prevent blood clots.

Turmeric is Packed with Antioxidants

Oxidants and free radicals within the body can contribute to disease and aging. The free radicals react with molecular building blocks (DNA and proteins) potentially causing cancer and other diseases. As turmeric is full of antioxidants, it helps to prevent free radicals from harming the body. Turmeric also enhances the body’s natural antioxidant enzyme.

Turmeric Improves Brain Function and Lowers the Risk of Brain Diseases

Curcumin can boost the growth hormone within the brain. This hormone is known as the brain-derived neurotrophic factor and is used by the brain to form new neurons. By increasing the effectiveness of this growth hormone, curcumin aides brain function and may also lower the risk of brain diseases, such as Alzheimer’s.

Turmeric Helps to Fight Depression

Curcumin can also increase the production of serotonin and dopamine within the brain. This combined with the increased brain-derived neurotrophic factor helps to make one feel happier overall. Some studies have shown that concentrated levels of curcumin can be as effective as antidepressants.

Turmeric is Great for the Immune System

Overall, turmeric is great for the immune system. It contains prebiotics, fibers that fuel the probiotics that live in the digestive tract. Having a healthy gut is important for overall health as the body can focus on prevention rather than healing.

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References

10 Proven Health Benefits of Turmeric and Curcumin, written by Kris Gunnars, BSc

What are the Health Benefits of Turmeric, written by Elaine K. Howley