Estimated reading time: 5 mins
Turmeric is a spice derived from the root of the Curcuma longa plant, and has been used for centuries as both a medicine and a culinary ingredient. It has recently become popular in the West due to its potential health benefits, which are now backed up by science. In this article I’ll explore some of the amazing health benefits that turmeric can offer us, with various use cases examples.
The Health Benefits of Turmeric
Turmeric is perhaps best known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which make it an ideal choice for those suffering from arthritis or other inflammatory conditions. This spice contains curcuminoids, which are compounds that have powerful anti-inflammatory properties. As such, taking turmeric on a regular basis can reduce inflammation in your body, leading to improved joint function and reduced pain. Additionally, curcuminoids may also be able to help reduce symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s disease and depression due to their effects on neurotransmitters in the brain.
It’s not just inflammation that turmeric can tackle though; this spice has been found to be beneficial in protecting against cancerous growths too. Studies have shown that turmeric can inhibit the growth of certain types of cancer cells and even trigger apoptosis – programmed cell death – in them. Additionally, some research suggests that it could even help protect against certain environmental pollutants. This makes it an ideal choice for those seeking natural protection against toxins and carcinogens found in our environment today.
When it comes to heart health, turmeric can be incredibly helpful too. It contains antioxidants which help protect against damage to blood vessels caused by high cholesterol levels or high blood pressure. Additionally, studies have shown that turmeric can improve cardiovascular health by reducing bad cholesterol levels, improving circulation, reducing plaque buildup, and acting as an anticoagulant All of these effects combined make turmeric an excellent choice for those looking to improve their cardiovascular health naturally!
For those who suffer from diabetes or pre-diabetes, turmeric may also provide relief. Curcuminoids found within this spice act as insulin sensitizers, meaning they increase cells’ sensitivity towards insulin thus helping keep blood sugar levels under control. Additionally, turmeric may also help lower glucose production making it an ideal choice for diabetics who are looking for natural solutions.
Let’s take a look at how turmeric could benefit cognitive performance. Research shows that taking turmeric on a regular basis could lead to improved memory and mental wellbeing, enhanced focus, better decision making, increased concentration, and even reduced anxiety. This makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking to boost their mental performance naturally.
How to Get More Turmeric in Your Diet: 5 Easy Recipes
- The first dish I recommend is my favorite: Turmeric Coconut Rice. This is a really simple meal that requires only a few ingredients and takes less than 20 minutes to prepare. Start by heating some oil in a medium saucepan over a medium heat. Add 1 cup basmati rice, 2 teaspoons of ground turmeric, ½ teaspoon salt, and 1 cup coconut milk or water. Stir everything together and bring to the boil before reducing the heat and simmering for 12-15 minutes until all liquid has been absorbed. When cooked through remove from the heat, fluff with a fork and serve with your favorite vegetables or proteins on the side.
- Next up we have my version of an Indian classic: Turmeric Chickpea Curry. Start by sautéing some garlic, ginger and onions in a large pan over low heat until softened – about 10 minutes – then add 2 tablespoons of your favourite oil (I advise avoiding vegetable oil, but also avoid olive oil as it imparts too strong a flavour) along with 3 teaspoons ground turmeric, 1 teaspoon ground cumin and 1 teaspoon garam masala (or curry powder). Stir everything together before adding one 400g tin of chickpeas (drained), 200g diced tomatoes (canned or fresh) plus some salt to taste. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened slightly before serving over steamed rice or quinoa with freshly chopped coriander sprinkled on top.
- My third recipe suggestion uses a common cooking ingredient in an unexpected way: Turmeric Roasted Carrots & Parsnips. Preheat oven to 190°C/ 375°F/ gas mark 5 then place 500g carrots and parsnips (cut into batons) onto a baking tray lined with greaseproof paper along with 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 teaspoons ground turmeric, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, some sea salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste. Toss everything together ensuring all vegetables are evenly coated before roasting for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and tender when pierced with a knife.
- For those days where you just need something quick there’s nothing better than this Turmeric Soup – perfect for lunch or dinner! Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium heat then add 4 cloves garlic (minced), 500g potatoes (diced), 1 onion (diced), 2 carrots (diced), 3 celery stalks (diced), 1 litre vegetable stock and 3 teaspoons ground turmeric. Bring to the boil then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes until potatoes are soft when pierced with a knife. Blend soup using either an immersion blender or food processor then season to taste if needed before serving hot alongside crusty bread if desired.
- Finally we have one of my favorite dishes: Baked Turmeric Tofu Nuggets! Start by preheating oven 180°C/350°F/gas mark 4 then cut 350g firm tofu into cubes before placing them onto kitchen paper to absorb excess moisture. In a shallow bowl mix together ¼ cup cornflour, 3 teaspoons ground turmeric, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder plus some salt and pepper if desired. Place tofu cubes into this mixture one at time ensuring all sides are covered evenly before transferring each cube onto a greased baking tray ready for baking. Bake for 15-20 minutes turning halfway through cooking time until golden brown and crispy on outside. Serve as part of stir fry, salad or simply alone as snack!
All these recipes make it easy to get more turmeric into your diet without sacrificing flavor! Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian or just looking for ways to incorporate more plant based meals into your lifestyle these dishes will help keep things interesting and give you plenty of options when planning meals – Enjoy!
In Summary
All things considered then it’s clear why so many people are turning towards Turmeric when searching for natural solutions! With its wide range of uses ranging from tackling inflammation, preventing cancer, aiding heart health, regulating diabetes, boosting cognitive performance – all backed up by science – there really isn’t anything else like it! Whether you suffer from chronic pain or just want something natural to give you an edge mentally – adding some Turmericto your routine could be just what you need!
