If you are given the chance to choose a spice that can improve your well being and help you lead a healthier and longer life, then a good choice for you would be turmeric. Turmeric powder is bright yellow in color and it is made by grinding mature turmeric rhizomes. It is mostly used in curries for coloring and flavoring, but it is also commonly used for medicinal and cosmetic reasons. One tablespoon of turmeric powder has about 24 calories with no cholesterol. It also contains high levels of magnesium, potassium, iron, fiber and vitamin B6. Turmeric powder can be purchased from Indian and Chinese supermarkets. The spice is used in almost every Indian curry, pickles and mustards. Here’s a look at the 5 amazing reasons you must include turmeric in your diet every day.
Relieves Arthritis
Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties which are great for treating rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. This spice also contain antioxidants which helps the body get rid of free radicals. A number of studies have shown that individuals who eat turmeric regularly experience great relief from joint inflammation and mild to moderate joint pains. In fact, turmeric is more effective than anti-inflammatory drugs.
Prevents Cancer
The most active ingredient contained in turmeric is known as curcumin and according to a number of medical experts, there is no cancer that is not affected by curcumin. Curcumin can be of great benefit when it comes to the treatment of cancer. It can affect the growth of cancer, development as well as spread. Studies have also shown that curcumin can reduce angiogenesis and contribute to the elimination of cancerous cells. This active compound provides protection against radiation induced-tumors and provides a preventative effect against colon, carcinomas, breast carcinomas and T cell leukemia.
Controls Diabetes
Turmeric can help moderate insulin levels and therefore it can be used in the effective treatment of diabetes. This spice improves glucose control and it also enhances the effect on diabetes medications. Studies have shown that turmeric can help reduce insulin resistance, but before you take turmeric capsules, you must consult with your doctor because when combined with medications that have been prescribed for diabetes, it can lead to low blood sugar.
Improves Digestion
For many years, turmeric has been known to treat the gastro-intestinal system of the body. It has been used in Traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine and is considered a carminative and digestive bitter. This is the reason it is mostly incorporated into foods such as beans and rice to reduce bloating and gas and to improve digestion. Turmeric can also stimulate bile production and encourage its excretion through the gallbladder which improves the ability of the body to digest fats.
Aids in Weight Loss
It has not been proven that consuming turmeric is directly related to weight loss, but it has been found that it can protect cell damage that is caused by free radicals and environmental damage. Studies have shown that the process of detoxification slows down when the liver is damaged or not functioning well. Turmeric also lowers cholesterol levels and lipids which promotes weight gain and leads to coronary heart diseases.
