Health Benefits of Turmeric.-Are you not familiar with turmeric? Although you may not own a jar or two of this spice, you are likely familiar with the basics. It is what gives mustard and curries their vibrant colors.
This spice is great to add to food with a golden hue. But, it also has anti-inflammatory benefits that will benefit your overall health. Find out 14 Health Benefits of Turmeric.
- 1 Health Benefits of Turmeric
- 1.1 Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- 1.2 Potential protection from Alzheimer’s Disease
- 1.3 Liver function- Health Benefits of Turmeric
- 1.4 Bottom line: Health Benefits of Turmeric
Health Benefits of Turmeric
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Early research, including one involving 207 adults and another using rats, suggests that turmeric could improve IBS symptoms. There is more research needed, like so many things we have covered. Turmeric is also being explored as a treatment option for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Potential protection from Alzheimer’s Disease
Numerous studies have demonstrated that curcumin has a positive impact on Alzheimer’s. First and foremost, curcumin does not promote the formation or encourage the disintegration of rogue proteins (beta-amyloid plaques) that can form between the brain’s nerve cells.
This impairs their communication and is a hallmark of Alzheimer’s. The nerve cells eventually stop functioning, which can cause irreparable damage to cognition. Aduhelm, a new pharmaceutical treatment for Alzheimer’s, works similarly by reducing amyloid plaques.
Liver function- Health Benefits of Turmeric
Dr. Lam explains that “using turmeric judiciously might improve liver function. It may improve detoxification. and reduce hepatic conditions.” “Curcumin is known to prevent liver damage from iron overdoses, cirrhosis or carbon tetrachloride.” There is increasing research in this area.
erectile dysfunction
Men can benefit from turmeric’s ability to treat erectile problems. Dr. Paul believes that turmeric may be able to help with inflammation-related erectile disorders. However, most people wouldn’t consider turmeric a primary treatment due to limited research and lack of practical erectile problems medications.
skin health
Dr. Cabeca explains that turmeric has many benefits for the skin, including improving skin conditions such as eczema or ulcers. Its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and immuno-inflammatory properties make turmeric a popular ingredient in skincare. Many people associate it with brightening their skin or improving their evening skin tone.
weight loss
In a 2018 study, curcumin consumption significantly decreased body weight (BMI), body fat, waist circumference, and leptin levels of leptin in a 2018 study. Curcumin was found to be an effective supplement in managing metabolic syndrome. The condition is estimated to affect approximately 20% of people around the globe.
It’s anti-inflammatory
Ayurveda and Eastern Asian medicine have used turmeric for centuries to combat inflammation and arthritis. Turmeric has long been used as an anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, and Ayurvedic medicine.
Arthritis Relief
Osteoarthritis symptoms include pain and joint dysfunction. Medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and other pain relievers are the most used. Many studies support curcumin’s ability to reduce joint inflammation.
Improved Brain Health
Curcumin is also thought to have other potential benefits. Curcumin’s antioxidants and anti-inflammatory abilities may also help prevent or reduce the symptoms of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Huntington’s disease and multiple sclerosis.
Possible Mood Enhancement
In small clinical trials, curcumin decreased significant depression and, in some instances, alleviated anxiety in study participants. Curcumin is thought to increase brain-derived neurotrophic factors, which may benefit mood.
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein responsible for maintaining neuronal health, can be stimulated through plant-derived polyphenols, such as curcumin. She says, “BDNF is associated with neuronal reconstruction.”
anticancer properties
studies have shown that turmeric has anti-cancer properties. This includes skin, breast, and stomach cancers. Although limited research is available, this does not mean it should replace your regular cancer treatment.
blood sugar levels
Curcumin, a highly active ingredient in turmeric and able to lower blood glucose, has been proven beneficial in treating or preventing Type 2 diabetes. Research on human subjects is still needed. However, turmeric may potentially help prevent prediabetes from developing into diabetes. To prevent diabetes, it is vital to maintain a healthy weight (20-25), exercise moderately (30 minutes every day), and avoid carbohydrates.
It improves cardiovascular health.
The ability to lower cholesterol and blood pressure has been demonstrated by turmeric. Both conditions often go hand in glove. Turmeric’s ability to lower cholesterol, blood pressure, and overall health can lead to better heart health. For those taking blood pressure medications, it is essential to consult your doctor before you start a turmeric treatment. Monitor cholesterol using blood work and keep track of blood pressure through frequent readings.
It helps with virus protection.
Curcumin is capable of increasing antibody responses. It can also help the body mount a comeback against viruses at low doses. Dr. Lam claims that curcumin offers significant promise as an immune system booster. Early research shows that curcumin may be able to help with COVID-19 symptoms due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Bottom line: Health Benefits of Turmeric
Although turmeric can improve many conditions, it can also be used in cooking to make it more effective. You’ll need to find a dietary supplement to get the best results.
Depending on your medical condition, you should take different amounts of turmeric and curcumin. You can take turmeric or curcumin in a range of 0.5 to 3 g daily. However, it is best to consult a doctor before making any diet changes.