This vibrant orange spice has numerous health-promoting qualities and is more than just a component of curries. Jo Lewin, a certified nutritionist, discusses its primary advantages and explains why turmeric may be healthy for you.

Description turmeric

Turmeric (curcuma longa), which gives curry its distinctive yellow color, also affects the flavor, appearance, and composition of the dish it is paired with. Turmeric is a tropical spice that has a long history of health benefits, particularly its anti-inflammatory effects. It is the root of a flowering plant and a member of the ginger family.

Turmeric’s nutritional profile

The approximate nutritional value per tablespoon of ground turmeric powder is as follows: 29 kcal/123 KJ

0.9g protein

4g carbs

1g fiber

0.3g fat

196mg potassium 

7mg iron.

The following are the health advantages of turmeric

1. Contains defense-enhancing bioactive substances

Due to their plant pigments, colorful plant foods are beneficial to human health, and turmeric is no exception. Curcumin, the primary active ingredient and around 3% of the root’s weight, is responsible for a large portion of the spice’s media attention. Although a noteworthy component, curcumin is only one of the thousands of bioactive substances that are present in turmeric.

2. Possesses antioxidant qualities

Protective substances like curcumin are valuable because they support the body’s defenses against cell oxidation’s harmful effects. This process may eventually result in chronic inflammation and, as a result, age-related illnesses like cancer, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.

Our bodies are better able to handle aging and the inflammation that goes along with it when we consume foods that are protective antioxidants. It also relieves inflammation and muscle discomfort brought on by exercise.

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3. Could lessen arthritic pain

Studies contrasting the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicine (NSAIDS) with turmeric’s anti-inflammatory effects have yielded promising results. Studies on animals examining the therapeutic potential of curcumin as an arthritis therapy have also proved promising.

However, additional well planned clinical trials are required to ascertain the effectiveness of curcumin for arthritis sufferers, particularly those who depend on NSAIDS to treat their illness.

4. Might help people with dementia or Alzheimer’s

Turmerone is another active component of turmeric. Turmerone is less well understood, but studies suggest it may be helpful for treating illnesses like stroke and Alzheimer’s disease since it stimulates cell repair and may perhaps aid in the restoration of brain function.

Since the active components of turmeric are frequently poorly absorbed in people, additional research is required before we can determine how useful turmerone may be. However, these studies typically only use animal and cell models.

5. The risk of cardiovascular disease may be lowered

According to studies, curcumin’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may help prevent some of the risk factors for heart disease, including maintaining healthy cholesterol levels.

6. Could bolster the immune system

Studies suggest that curcumin may influence vital immune cells such T cells, B cells, and natural killer cells through modulating the immune system. Additionally, curcumin seems to inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines, molecules whose prolonged activity can result in inflammation-related harm.

Curcumin may boost our immune system responses when taken in small dosages, aiding in the battle against illness. According to animal research, it might also help to manage allergy diseases like hay fever.

7. Might protect against cancer

Additionally, curcumin seems to trigger a number of cellular alterations that could be beneficial in the battle against cancer. Studies indicate that curcumin, which is active at various phases of cancer formation, may help prevent the establishment of new blood vessels in tumors, slow the spread of cancer, and aid in the killing of cancer cells.

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8. Could improve mood

Again, curcumin may be to blame for the spice’s ability to improve our mood and lessen some depressive symptoms. In one study looking at its antidepressive properties, curcumin was shown to be just as effective as the medication Prozac.

Curcumin may also increase feel-good brain chemicals like serotonin and dopamine, according to some research.

9. May improve memory 

According to animal research, curcumin raises levels of the brain hormone brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). This aids in the survival of nerve cells and is crucial for learning and memory.

To fully understand these advantages, more human research are required, but preliminary results are encouraging.

10. Might possess anti-aging qualities

By activating specific proteins and preventing cell damage, curcumin may halt the aging process. As a result, it could slow the onset of age-related illnesses and lessen their symptoms.

Is turmeric secure for all people?

Turmeric is generally a safe alternative, however there are some situations when caution is required.

• Pregnant women should refrain from ingesting large doses of turmeric. According to recent animal studies, curcumin may change oestrogen levels. However, using the spice in moderation during pregnancy, such as in a meal or beverage, may be advantageous.

• Refrain from consuming large amounts of turmeric if you have iron deficient anemia. The spice’s constituents seem to bind to iron in the intestines, preventing it from being absorbed and exacerbating symptoms.

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