There are several spices that pack a punch in terms of health benefits, but perhaps none so much as turmeric.
So…what makes turmeric such a superfood? Let’s take a look…
The 411 on Turmeric
The key to turmeric’s health benefits lies in a compound called curcumin. While curcumin only makes up about 3% of turmeric by weight, it is this substance that provides turmeric’s health benefits.
Why is curcumin so beneficial?
- It’s a potent antioxidant
Your body needs antioxidants to fight off the damaging effects of free radicals. These unstable molecules cause cell damage and increase your risk for age-related illnesses, such as cancer.
Curcumin helps to neutralize free radicals and boost your body’s antioxidant defenses. This reduces oxidative stress and helps to protect your cells from damage.
- It’s a powerful anti-inflammatory
Short-term inflammation is part of your body’s natural healing process. But long-term or chronic inflammation is harmful to your health. In fact, chronic inflammation is responsible for many age-related health concerns, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and arthritis.
Curcumin has been shown to block the molecules that trigger inflammation. And unlike many anti-inflammatory medications like aspirin or ibuprofen, curcumin relieves inflammation without side effects like liver damage.
Many people who suffer from arthritis, in particular, report significant relief when taking turmeric daily.
- It promotes brain health
Studies suggest that curcumin may increase the production of “brain-derived neurotropic factor”, or BDNF. This protein supports learning, memory, and overall brain health.
Alternatively, low BDNF levels may increase risk factors for depression, Alzheimer’s, and other cognitive issues.
- It supports cardiovascular health
Curcumin helps to reduce chronic inflammation, a significant risk factor for developing heart disease. It also improves the health of your blood vessels.
- It strengthens bones and joints
The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of curcumin help to prevent inflammation-related joint conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Curcumin also helps to prevents bone loss caused by resorption of bone cells, it enhances calcium absorption, and it prevents cartilage breakdown.
- It may help to prevent cancer
Preliminary studies indicate that daily consumption of turmeric may inhibit cancer cell growth.
Add Turmeric to Your Wellness Routine
Want to enjoy the health benefits of turmeric? Doing so is easy.
You can start by cooking with it. Sprinkle it on roasted vegetables, blend it into a smoothie, or add it to your morning coffee.
Curcumin can also be taken in supplement form.
And pairing turmeric with black pepper enhances its results. Peperine, a compound found in black pepper, increases the absorption of curcumin by as much as 2000%. If you take a curcumin supplement, consider looking for one that contains black pepper extract.
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