The benefit of turmeric extends further than you’re likely aware
By now you have to have heard of turmeric. Maybe you’ve ordered a golden milk latte, or even spotted it featured in your newest beauty products. So what is turmeric and why is it in every health product made these days? Turmeric is a golden yellow root, commonly ground into a spice. Have you ever eaten Indian curry? Then you’ve had turmeric.
Curcumin is mostly responsible for why turmeric is so incredibly good for you. Here are the ways this ancient spice can enhance your health:
Curcumin is a powerful antioxidant (1). Antioxidants can fight molecules known as free radicals, that are byproducts of cellular reactions that negatively affect cell health. Antioxidants may reduce or help prevent some of the oxidative damage and inflammation caused by free radicals. The leading health problems facing us today — like heart disease and dementia — have been linked to increased levels of oxidative damage and inflammation. The more antioxidants in our diets, the better. Blueberries, dark chocolate, and cinnamon are other delicious foods high in antioxidants.
The main benefit of turmeric, and what it’s best known for, is its anti-inflammatory properties. While acute inflammation can be healthy (aka the body’s normal protective, short-term response to injury), chronic inflammation can lead to chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease, pulmonary disease, neurological disease, autoimmune disease, diabetes II, arthritis, and even Alzheimer’s disease.
Curcumin lowers the levels of two enzymes in the body that cause inflammation (2). It has been shown to be as effective an anti-inflammatory agent as ibuprofen (3). It’s anti-inflammatory properties help ease symptoms caused by many diseases, such as headaches and joint pain. And, it helps with allergies, pain, and fatigue.
Blood Sugar Balance
Blood sugar balance is key to optimal health, especially weight management and mental health. A big benefit of turmeric is its ability to lower and regulate blood sugar by improving glucose tolerance (5). Curcumin can help stimulate hormones to offset blood sugar imbalances (6). Have diabetes or insulin resistance? Try adding turmeric to your daily routine.
Research suggests turmeric’s anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties make turmeric effective in treating skin conditions. It can help speed wound healing, calm the pores, and help control psoriasis flares (7). Be mindful here – it will stain your face. It’s probably not the best idea to slather it all over your face right before date night.
Curcumin has demonstrated positive effects on brain function and memory by increasing levels of the brain hormone that boosts neuron growth and fights decay. It also helps break up amyloid plaques that form over the course of Alzheimer’s and can prevent them from re-forming (8). There is also some evidence that curcumin can boost the brain neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine, the feel-good hormones.
How to Use
When consuming turmeric, always pair it with black pepper. Black pepper contains a compound called piperine, brand name Bioperine. Tumeric with Bioperine helps boost turmeric’s absorption from the digestive system into the bloodstream. This is why we are particular fans of VIDA Essentials Turmeric Curcumin is a win-win. It’s an easy way to get in your daily dose. Fat can also increase your body’s absorption of curcumin, so take it with a meal.
Turmeric is an incredibly helpful addition to a healthy, anti-inflammatory lifestyle that focuses on eating a nutrient-dense diet, minimizing sugar and processed foods, and moving your body daily.