Most of us recognize turmeric as the key ingredient in curry. It’s spicy, smoky flavour and it’s sharp yellow-orange colour make it unmistakable. But what many do not know is that turmeric also has a wide range of health benefits. As a result, many people have begun including it in their diet, either in its original form or as part of a supplement.
But it’s important to point out that turmeric is not just some health craze or a traditional legend. Modern research has been able to test its effects, or more its main ingredient specifically turmerone, and they have found that there are many health benefits of turmeric. Here are some of the most significant.
Anti-Inflammation
For those who suffer from joint pain, or who are experiencing swelling as a result of surgery or an injury, turmeric can be an effective remedy. Many different studies have found that turmeric can be as effective as synthetic anti-inflammatory drugs, but it presents none of the risks. To get the anti-inflammatory effects of turmeric, you can take it as a supplement, or you can apply as an ointment directly to the affected area.
Indigestion Relief
Good digestive health is key to overall well-being. The best way to regulate digestion is with a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as whole grains and lean meats. But this isn’t always possible in our fast-paced, high-stress lives. But the combination of nutrients found in turmeric helps to facilitate digestion and can help you overcome some of the issues that may result from an inadequate diet.
Brain Function and Mood
We used to think the brain had a limited capacity for growth. But this understanding is changing. Nowadays, we know that it can continue to grow and form new connections. Yet it can only do this under the right circumstances. Specifically, it needs high concentrations of the hormone NDNF. And turmeric has been found to raise concentrations of NDNF in the brain, helping to improve brain function and memory.
Furthermore, because of this property, some have concluded that turmeric could be an effective way to prevent and treat Alzheimer’s disease. And turmeric has also been found the be an effective treatment for depression and other mood-related disorders.
Cancer Treatment?
The devastation caused by cancer in populations around the world has people scrambling to find a cure. And while we’ve made great strides, a truly effective therapy still eludes us. Radiation and chemotherapy have produced results, but they have huge drawbacks. And while the research is still ongoing, there is evidence to suggest turmeric, or more specifically, turmerone, can slow the growth of cancer cells, suggesting it could be used as an effective treatment for one of the world’s most deadly diseases.
Add Turmeric to Your Life
As you can see, turmeric has many different benefits. However, before you place an order at your local Indian restaurant for some delicious curry, know that most store-bought turmeric does not contain a significant enough amount of turmerone to produce some of the effects mentioned above.
As a result, to make sure you’re fully benefiting from what turmeric has to offer, consider using speciality turmeric drinks, shakes or turmeric supplements, as these all have much higher concentrations of this powerful spice.
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