Sometimes, we as humans do not value the common things we find around us especially those common ingredients in our kitchen.
Little do we know that these common ingredients found in our various kitchens have lots of benefits to offer.
Have you ever wondered why our grandmothers and parents use yellow spice in cooking and for healing purposes? That spice is turmeric.
Turmeric has been with us for thousands of years and is known not just for its special color and extraordinary flavor, but also for its incredible health benefits.
Read this article on the health benefits of turmeric, how you can use it in your everyday life, its nutritional makeup, and more.
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Turmeric
Though we have discussed in detail what turmeric is, in our previous article on Turmeric, I will still throw more light on what turmeric is in this article.
Turmeric is a bright yellow-orange spice from the root of the Curcuma longa plant.
It is part of the ginger family, hence, the resemblance in physical appearance.
Turmeric is most common among Asian people and can be found in the majority of their dishes, more commonly in Indian dishes like curry.
Curcumin is the main active ingredient in turmeric. Most of the health benefits of turmeric stem from this curcumin.
Curcumin has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Due to these properties, turmeric is a popular choice in dish preparation and natural medicines.
Turmeric Nutritional Profile
Before we jump into the health benefits of turmeric, let’s look at what makes turmeric so powerful.
Turmeric is packed with nutrients that are good for your body.
These nutrients offer the health benefits that make turmeric very powerful. These nutrients are:
A Table Showing The Nutritional Profile Of Turmeric With Their Functions
Nutrients | Examples | Functions |
Vitamins | Vitamins C and E | It helps boost the immune system |
Minerals | potassium, iron, and magnesium | Promote various body functions |
Antioxidants | curcumin | Combat free radicals that cause damage to your cells |
Dietary Fiber | It helps in digestion and keeps you feeling full. |
Now that we know the contents of turmeric that make it perform amazing health benefits, let us hurriedly dive into the top health benefits of turmeric. Here we go:
Top Health Benefits of Turmeric
Now let us explore the amazing health benefits of turmeric and how it can improve overall well-being.
Turmeric Reduces Inflammation
How does turmeric reduce inflammation? Naturally, inflammation is the body’s way of healing itself, but excessive inflammation can result in serious health problems like cancer, arthritis, and heart disease.
The active curcumin in turmeric has a powerful anti-inflammatory effect.
Studies have proven that curcumin can be as effective as some anti-inflammatory medications, without any side effects associated.
By incorporating turmeric in your diet, you can help lower inflammation in your body, which pain and protects against diseases.
Turmeric Boosts Your Immune System
The immune system is your body’s defense mechanism against harmful invaders, germs, and viruses.
The curcumin in turmeric has been proven to improve immune function, aiding your body to fight off infections more effectively.
Turmeric as well is rich in antioxidants, which help protect your cells from damage and strengthen your immune system.
When you add a little turmeric to your daily routine, like in a warm glass of milk or tea, it can help keep you healthy, especially during cold and flu season.
Turmeric Improves Heart Health
The leading cause of death globally is heart disease, but consuming turmeric may help reduce your risk.
Curcumin is capable of improving the function of the endothelium, which is the lining of blood vessels.
This aids in regulating blood pressure, blood clotting, and other factors that relate to heart health.
Moreover, the anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce cholesterol levels, keeping your heart in good shape.
Consuming Turmeric Aids Digestion
If you have ever had an upset stomach, you know how uncomfortable it can be.
Consuming turmeric can help. It kindles the production of bile in the gallbladder, which helps in emulsifying fat. Again, turmeric has mild anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help soothe the digestive tract and reduce symptoms of bloating, gas, and indigestion.
If you are having issues with digestive disorders like IBS, then make turmeric your ideal friend.
Related Article: Health Benefits Of Eating Onions
Turmeric Supports Brain Health
Are you aware that turmeric can make you smarter? Curcumin increases levels of a brain hormone called Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF).
BDNF supports the growth of new neurons (brain cells) and supports the connections between them.
Low levels of BDNF are linked to brain disorders like Alzheimer’s disease and depression.
By boosting BDNF levels, turmeric can help improve memory, mood, and learning and also lower the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
Consuming Turmeric Helps Manage Symptoms Of Arthritis
A condition that causes inflammation and joint pain is arthritis. Curcumin in turmeric is known for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, which can help relieve pain and swelling in arthritis patients.
Several studies have proven that taking curcumin supplements can be as effective as some pain medications but without the harmful side effects.
This makes turmeric a perfect natural remedy for managing symptoms of arthritis.
Consuming Turmeric Can Help Prevent Cancer
Although more research is needed, studies suggest that turmeric may have cancer-fighting properties.
The great curcumin in turmeric has been proven to impede the growth of cancer cells, reduce the spread of cancer, and even destroy cancerous cells in some cases.
Amazingly, it can also protect healthy cells from damage caused by radiation therapy.
Though turmeric is not a cure for cancer, adding it to your diet may help lower your risk of developing the disease.
Turmeric Improves Skin Health
Usually, turmeric is often used in skin care products due to its ability to improve skin health.
Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may help reduce acne, dark spots, and even wrinkles, which are signs of aging.
If you want to brighten your complexion with a natural glow, use turmeric.
Did you know that you can make a simple face mask with turmeric at home by just mixing turmeric powder with yogurt or honey?
Consuming Turmeric Can Help Manage Diabetes
With curcumin in turmeric, turmeric can help regulate blood sugar levels, making it useful for diabetic patients or those at high risk of developing it.
Curcumin has been found to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels, which are important for managing diabetes.
Adding turmeric to your diet could be an easy way to help control your blood sugar naturally.
Consuming Turmeric Promotes Weight Loss
Are you wondering how you can reduce weight? Have you tried several remedies yet no evidence of improvement? Try turmeric. Curcumin can enhance your metabolism and reduce fat tissue growth.
Curcumin can also reduce inflammation, which is often linked to obesity.
Though turmeric alone can’t make you lose weight, it can be a great addition to a healthy diet and exercise routine.
Great.
We have been able to get ourselves abreast with the health benefits of consuming turmeric.
Let us now dive into how we can use it in our daily lives to get the benefits stated above.
How To Use Turmeric In Your Daily Life
Now that you know how beneficial turmeric is, you might be wondering how to include it in your diet. Below are some easy ways to use turmeric:
Mix a teaspoon of turmeric powder with warm milk or plant-based milk and a bit of honey or black pepper for better absorption.
Add a pinch of turmeric powder to your morning smoothie for an extra health boost.
Use turmeric in stews, curries, soups, or rice to add color and enhance flavor.
You can use turmeric for salad dressing by mixing it with olive oil, and lemon juice.
Try turmeric supplements if you are not a fan of the raw turmeric taste. You can get supplements in capsule form.
What Are The Potential Side Effects Of Consuming Turmeric?
Turmeric is generally safe to consume. However, taking it in large quantities can result in some side effects, which include:
Stomach upset such as stomach discomfort, and bloating.
Interference with medication like blood thinners or diabetes drugs
Allergic reactions especially when applied to the skin
It is always ideal to talk to your doctor before adding any new supplement to your diet, especially if you have any health conditions or take medication.
Is Consuming Turmeric Safe For My Kidneys?
The main bioactive constituent in turmeric is curcumin. Curcumin is an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties and it is generally safe to consume.
However, too much of it can cause problems for your kidneys.
Is Turmeric Good For The Skin?
Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help with dark spots, acne, and aging.
Can Turmeric Help With Hypertension?
Yes. Research suggests that turmeric can help reduce high blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels to lower blood pressure.
It also prevents plague build-up. Several studies have also proven that turmeric can lower cholesterol and prevent bad cholesterol from building up.
Read More: Health Benefits Of Eating Garlic DailyFrequently Asked Questions
Can I take turmeric every day?
Yes, it is generally safe to consume turmeric daily but in moderate amounts, like in food or drinks. However, you need to consult your doctor before taking high-dose supplements.
How much turmeric should I consume daily?
Summary
When you see your parents or grandma always consuming turmeric in any form, never take that for granted.
Try to emulate them so that you can reap the benefits they are harvesting.
Turmeric is more than just a spice. It is a very powerful tool for maintaining good health.
From reducing inflammation and boosting brain function to improving digestion and supporting heart health, the benefits of turmeric are vast.
By adding a little turmeric to your daily diet, you can enjoy all these health benefits and more.
Also, note that consistency is key, use it regularly to reap the amazing health benefits of turmeric.
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