10 Reasons to Add Turmeric to Your Diet Today

You’ve probably heard about the benefits of adding turmeric to your diet by now. But if you’re still on the fence, here are 10 reasons you should make the switch today.

Turmeric has powerful anti-inflammatory properties.
It can help improve joint health and mobility.
It can help improve cognitive function and memory.
It can help reduce the risk of heart disease.
It can help improve digestion and gut health.
It’s a natural detoxifier and can help remove toxins from the body.
It can help improve skin health and appearance.
It has anti-cancer properties.
It can help regulate blood sugar levels.
It’s a natural antioxidant and can help protect the body from free radical damage

What Is Turmeric and Its History

Turmeric is a root that comes from southwest India and is related to ginger. It has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda for medicinal purposes. The active compound in turmeric is curcumin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Because of its rich history and multitude of health benefits, turmeric has become a popular ingredient in both food and supplements. It can be added to smoothies, juices, curries, rice dishes, or taken as a supplement.

10 Reasons to Add Turmeric to Your Diet Today

The Health Benefits of Turmeric

Turmeric is a powerful spice that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. It’s actually derived from the Curcuma longa plant, which is a member of the ginger family.

Turmeric is loaded with antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. It’s been shown to be helpful in treating a variety of health conditions, including arthritis, heart disease, cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.

But that’s not all. Turmeric is also a great way to improve your overall health. It can help boost your immune system, increase your energy level and improve your digestion.

So why not add turmeric to your diet today? There are plenty of ways to enjoy it, including adding it to your food or taking it as a supplement.

How to Use Turmeric in Recipes

Now that you know all of the incredible benefits of turmeric, it’s time to add it to your diet! Here are a few ideas for how to do so:

Add a teaspoon of ground turmeric to your morning smoothie.

Stir a teaspoon of turmeric into a cup of warm milk before bed.

Add it to soups, stews and curries.

Sprinkle it on roasted vegetables or chicken.

Make a turmeric latte by mixing ground turmeric with hot milk and honey or sugar.

Possible Side Effects of Turmeric

Turmeric may also have some side effects, so it’s important to remember that too much of a good thing can be bad. Consuming large doses of turmeric can cause stomach upset, nausea, dizziness, and diarrhea. If you take the supplement form of turmeric, bear in mind that the doses used in studies are usually way higher than what is found in everyday foods.

Prolonged use of rounds can also cause issues such as kidney stones and gallbladder issues. Some people may find that when using turmeric for a long time, their skin becomes sensitive to sunlight. Additionally, if you’re pregnant or have gallbladder/liver issues, it’s best to talk to your doctor before adding turmeric to your diet.

Overall though, when added sensibly, turmeric can be a great addition to your diet due to its various health benefits. As with any dietary change though, it’s always important to consult with your doctor first.

Turmeric’s Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Turmeric’s most impressive attribute is its powerful anti-inflammatory properties. The active ingredient, curcumin, has been proven to reduce inflammation in the body, which can improve joint health and even reduce the risk of chronic illnesses like kidney disease and diabetes.

Additionally, curcumin may help with the symptoms of many autoimmune disorders, like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and inflammatory bowel disease. Studies have found that curcumin can also help people with osteoarthritis by lowering joint pain and improving joint function.

Another study also suggested that turmeric may be able to reduce inflammation in people with rheumatoid arthritis when taken alongside conventional treatments, proving just how beneficial turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties really are.

How to Select and Store Turmeric

When shopping for turmeric, look for vibrant-colored pieces. You can buy turmeric fresh or pre-ground in the spice aisle of most grocery stores. Just make sure to store the root fresh or powdered form in an airtight container in a cool and dry spot for up to six months.

To get the most out of turmeric, you can grind it yourself. Simply use a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle to grind it as needed. Alternatively, make your own turmeric paste by combining 2 parts ground turmeric with 1 part water and stirring until a paste is formed. This can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 5 days.

In terms of measurement, 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric is equal to roughly one 2-inch piece of fresh root turmeric when grated or chopped finely. With these tips in mind, you can now confidently add this versatile spice into your culinary adventures!

Conclusion

All in all, adding turmeric to your diet can bring some impressive health benefits. From helping to fight inflammation and boosting cognitive function, to aiding in weight loss and improving skin health, there are plenty of reasons to make this yellow spice a regular part of your meals.

So if you’re not already cooking with turmeric, start experimenting with some recipes today. You may be surprised at just how delicious and versatile this humble root can be.