From India to your table
Turmeric is known as the spice that gives curry and mustard its yellow color. This powerful root is also called saffron from India, golden spice, and spice from life, its color is also related to the sun.
Turmeric originated in India where is used in traditional cuisine, as a dye for fabrics and as a prosperity and fertility symbol. Turmeric paste (Haldi) is even applied to the groom and bride as part of a purification ritual to relax them and bless their union (see source).
The good fortune does not stop there…
One tbsp of turmeric contains 29 calories, 0.91 gr. of protein, 0.31 gr. of fat, 6.31 gr. of carbohydrates, 2.1 gr. of fiber, and 0.3 gr. of sugar (see source)
In terms of daily nutritional values, one tbsp (7 g) of turmeric covers 26% of the daily dose of magnesium, 16% of the iron, 5% of the potassium, and 3% of the vitamin C our body needs (see source)
Turmeric is a symbol of prosperity and flavor, and from now on you will start to see it as a well-being symbol.
More than just an aromatic spice
Turmeric goes well with proteins such as meat and chicken, and with carbohydrates such as rice. You can find Turmeric in vegetarian dishes, soups, curries, vegetable and vegetable-protein-based dishes.
There is even the turmeric latte for coffee lovers!
However, turmeric is much more than that. Its incredible medicinal properties make it a popular ingredient for natural remedies. There are more than 13,000 articles that discuss the health benefits of turmeric (see source).Most of these benefits are because of curcumin, one of its active ingredients.
Do you want to know more about this? Here are the top 10 reasons why you should include turmeric in your diet:
1.- It is an anti-inflammatory remedy
Inflammation is our body’s response to infections and injuries. However, chronic inflammation carries severe consequences for our body, so we must take care of it. This type of inflammation is caused by obesity and excessive consumption of processed products, among other reasons.
The curcumin present in turmeric is an incredible way to treat chronic inflammation. In fact, turmeric has proven to be more effective than some medications for this condition (see source).
2.- Improves cardiovascular health
Heart attacks are one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Continuous stress, anxiety, and an unbalanced diet can increase the risk of suffering a heart attack.
Studies indicate that the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric can help prevent heart attacks. Curcumin in turmeric can prevent the growth of certain cancer cells, especially pancreatic, prostate , and breast cancer.
Some studies even show that components in turmeric contribute to the elimination of cancer cells (see source).
3.- Relieves the pain of arthritis
There are more than 100 types of arthritis and different causes of it, however, the most common cause is joint inflammation. Symptoms of arthritis include,swelling, pain, stiffness and difficulty of joints mobility. While there is no cure for arthritis, its symptoms are treatable, even naturally.
The anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin contribute to relieving joint pain in patients with arthritis. Some studies show that this compound could be as effective as ibuprofen (see source)
4.- It is an antioxidant
Antioxidants are molecules that help slow down or prevent damage to other molecules. We call this kind of damage, oxidation. It occurs when there is wear and tear on the molecule. Antioxidants also help us fight free radicals, a type of unstable molecules that can accumulate and affect other molecules such as DNA.
Curcumin combats free radicals naturally. It also contributes to the creation of new antioxidant enzymes that will keep your body healthy (see source)
5.- Helps to keep your brain healthy
The protein FNDC (neurotrophic factor derived from the brain), plays an important role in brain development. This protein helps establish new brain connections, and paves the way for neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine.
Curcumin acts as a stimulant for FNDC (see source), which helps maintain a better mood and a good memory. It is believed that high levels of FNDC could help control diseases such as Alzheimer’s.
The best part is consuming this powerful root is as easy as it is tasty!
6.- Fights depression
We usually associate depression with external pressure and anxiety attacks. A poor diet can also influence depressive moods. Depression is also caused by imbalances at a chemical level.
The protein FNDC regulates brain function and the production of serotonin and dopamine. Low levels of FNDC (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) may be linked to depression.
Curcumin has proven to be an effective treatment for depression when compared to brand antidepressants. (see source). In addition, it is also thought to stimulate the production of dopamine and serotonin.
7.-Keeps you relaxed
Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal gland. The body releases this hormone during stressful situations to limit the functions of the body that are considered unnecessary at times of danger.
Cortisol is an excellent alarm system when it is present at neutral levels. However , high levels of cortisol can lead to metabolic problems, stress, anxiety, and depression.
Curcumin has the potential to decrease and control cortisol levels in the body, and as mentioned before, to increase the production of serotonin (see source).
8.- It works as an antiseptic
Antiseptics are substances that inhibit bacteria proliferation. They are used in living tissues to prevent infections, and even putrefaction. Remember the bruises you got while learning how to ride a bike? Maybe turmeric would have been a great help for those!
Turmeric contains antiseptic properties that help fight bacteria and fungi, which can be helpful when treating cuts or skin injuries (see source). For instance, turmeric paste is a home remedy used to cover small cuts or injuries.
9.- Helps prevent cancer
The properties of turmeric help reduce the spread of cancer cells, the increase of blood vessels in the blood in tumors (angiogenesis) and the spread of cancer (metastasis). The good news is that turmeric helps prevent cancer, particularly cancers related to the digestive system (see source)
10.- Prevents Alzheimer’s
Curcumin has a hematoencephalic effect that helps prevent and fight Alzheimer’s – neurodegenerative disease that causes dementia. There is still no clinically proven treatment to cure this disease. However, there is a spice that acts as an antioxidant, and helps reduce inflammation, which can contribute to the prevention and cure of Alzheimer’s. The magical ingredient we are referring to is tumeric.
Now that you know about the magical properties of turmeric you won’t want to stop using it whenever you get a chance.(see source)
Then, should I include turmeric in all my meals?
The amount of curcumin in turmeric is not enough to benefit from all its amazing properties. If you want to experience the benefits of this spice first-hand, the ideal way is to supplement your diet. A large portion of the research done regarding turmeric has been based on supplements containing curcumin (see source)
There are several supplements on the market that can help you supplement your diet. The Terry-Naturally-Curamin-Strength-Tablets and Turmeric Root Extract 300mg Caps 60’s are some examples. Both supplements have a high percentage of curcumin among its ingredients, which will help you enjoy all the benefits turmeric is known for.
As you have already seen, turmeric is more than just a spice to brighten up your meals and clothes. Now that you know all the benefits of turmeric, let yourself be carried away by the Indian saffron aroma of this spice. At Nature’s Discount we walk next to you so you can confidently begin a healthier way of life.
