Turmeric has been used for thousands of years in India for its flavor and medicinal properties. The health benefits of turmeric come from bioactive compounds that aid in the anti-inflammatory process and contain strong antioxidants. The turmeric we eat is the root of the plant and is often sold as whole roots in asian grocery stores, while your local supermarket will most likely only offer turmeric in powdered form. For daily supplement use, turmeric can also be found in pill form. Here are 6 Health Benefits of Turmeric you may find useful in your daily life.
6 Health Benefits of Turmeric
Reduce Joint Pain: Turmeric contains a high concentration of curcumin that has been proven to reduce swelling in joints. Turmeric has been shown in studies to work as well as ibuprofen in seniors with knee osteoarthritis.
Help Fight Cancer: The bioactive compound curcumin contains powerful antioxidants that are being studied and findings show that these antioxidants impede the growth and spread of cancer cells. One of turmeric’s best health qualities is the large amount of antioxidants that fight off cancer causing free radicals in our bodies. Free radicals come from everywhere, from food to the air we breathe. The curcumin also boosts our body’s own free radical fighting enzymes. One study showed that turmeric may even be capable of preventing the development of cancer in the first place.
Protect the Brain and Reduce Alzheimer’s Risk: The compound ar-turmerone has been found in studies to repair stem cells in the brain. Researchers suggest this may be a good future treatment for common neurological disorders. This happens by turmeric’s power to boost the protein BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor).
Good for the Heart: One study of Turmeric and bypass patients showed that use of turmeric may reduce the rate of heart attack by as much as 65%. Turmeric helps the function of the lining of arteries and reduces inflammation of the arteries leaving more room for blood to flow freely.
Delay Onset of Type 2 Diabetes: The anti inflammatory properties of turmeric can slow down progression from pre diabetes to type 2 diabetes. They can also help fight the inflammatory responses that often go into overdrive in patients with diabetes as well as improve the disruption of insulin response.
Reduce Heartburn and Upset Stomach: The anti-inflammatory benefits of turmeric can reduce heartburn and indigestion. Turmeric may help by stimulating the gallbladder to make bile to neutralize excess stomach acid. Turmeric should only be used for occasional heartburn and indigestion.
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