If you love indulging in ethnic food (especially Thai and Indian), then chances are you get lots of turmeric in your diet.
Turmeric is a potent spice that gives curry its rich yellow hue. It has actually been used as a dye for textiles throughout history!
But there is more to turmeric than a pretty face. This spice-which comes from the root of the Curcuma longa plant has many antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric has been used in Indian and Chinese medicine for hundreds of years to treat everything from chest pain and colic to flatulence and toothaches!
Let’s take a closer look at why you should add more turmeric to your diet.
Anti-inflammatory. You’re probably sick of hearing me go on about inflammation in the body, but seriously, folks, you don’t want inflammation in your body. It is bad news. Turmeric contains a pharmacological agent called curcumin, which has properties comparable to over-the-counter anti-inflammatories (including Motrin!). But curcumin does not produce toxicity. If you have arthritis, eat more turmeric. It brings great relief to those suffering from joint swelling and pain.
Mucus reduction. Mucus isn’t something we want too much of in our bodies. It can affect your body’s ability to absorb nutrients. Adding turmeric to your diet can help rid the body of a build-up of mucus.
Bowel health. The curcumin in turmeric can help anyone suffering from inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s.
Joint inflammation. Again with the inflammation! If you’re looking for a fabulous supplement to help with inflammation check out our Full Bloom InflaCrusher.
Cancer prevention. Curcumin can protect colon cells from free radical damage, which can actually help prevent colon cancer. That curcumin is powerful stuff—it can help your body kill mutated cancer cells before they spread through the body and cause further harm.
Turmeric is also associated with protecting against cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s, as well as lowering cholesterol.
I think we can all agree that turmeric is something we all want more of!
So how can you get more turmeric in your diet?
Eat more curries! (What wonderful homework!) Curry powder contains turmeric, but turmeric doesn’t have a very strong taste on its own, so use it freely and use it often.
Add turmeric to your egg dishes to make them healthier and more yellow!
Add turmeric to steamed cauliflower and in your savory apple dishes.
Spice up lentil dishes and salad dressings with turmeric. Add it to quinoa, potatoes, and soups.
What’s your favorite way to use turmeric? Let us know on our Facebook page!
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