A member of the ginger family, turmeric is easily identified by its yellow color and often used in Indian food. But, this tasty spice isn’t just used to give your food an extra kick. Turmeric is being actively researched for use in Alzheimer’s prevention and treatment, as well as treating autoimmune, cancer and heart diseases.
Here is what we know about turmeric so far:
- It’s a natural anti-inflammatory
- It increases the body’s antioxidant capacity, blocks free radicals and stimulates the body’s own antioxidant activity
- It increases the growth of new brain neurons and fights the degenerative process that occurs in the brain with aging
- It improves blood vessel lining functions because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties
Sounds pretty good! Here are a two tips to introduce turmeric to your diet:
- Add it to your spice rack. To get beneficial amounts, use turmeric often in your cooking.
- Supplement with a liquid or capsule. Look for organically grown turmeric that has a 95 percent curcumin content and contains “bioperine.” The current suggested daily amount is one to two grams for adults.
Discuss taking turmeric with your healthcare provider before including it in your daily regimen. Turmeric slows blood clotting and should not be taken by people on anticoagulant therapy, during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Do not take turmeric if you have gallstones or a bile duct obstruction.
The most common side effect to taking turmeric is mild nausea, diarrhea and dizziness. It is recommended that turmeric be gradually introduced into your daily regimen to minimize these symptoms.
Stay tuned ““ you’ll be hearing more about this spice.
