Turmeric Power: 10 Health Benefits
10 Health Benefits of Turmeric and Curcumin
Why Do Most Indians Not Suffer from Alzheimer’s?
I recently watched a video of a doctor answering a question some people ask: Why do most people in India not suffer from Alzheimer’s? The doctor says in her answer that all Indians, especially the poor, do not usually suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. This is thanks to their adding turmeric to most of their dishes.
The Doctor’s Statement Matches the Results of a Study
The doctor’s statements match the results of a study recently published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, which concluded that turmeric can play an important role in preventing memory loss.
A Study on Turmeric and Cognitive Impairment
A study was conducted in 2018 on 40 people without dementia, and divided them into two groups. Twenty of them were given turmeric, while the other 20 were given a placebo supplement. Subjects were followed for 18 months; The researchers concluded that turmeric improves memory in those who do not suffer from cognitive impairment. Participants then underwent a brain scan (FDDNP-PET), which showed that turmeric also reduced the deposition of proteins in the brain (amyloid and tau) associated with dementia.
10 Health Benefits of Turmeric and Curcumin
Turmeric is the spice that gives curry its yellow color, and has been used in India for thousands of years as a spice and medicinal herb. Research has shown that turmeric contains compounds with medicinal properties, called curcuminoids. The most important is curcumin, which is the main active ingredient in turmeric.
1. Rich in Bioactive Compounds with Medicinal Properties
Turmeric is rich in bioactive compounds with medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory effects and antioxidant properties. However, the curcumin content in turmeric is only about 1-6% by weight. Most studies on this herb use turmeric extracts, which often contain curcumin itself, in doses that typically exceed 1 gram per day.
2. Natural Anti-Inflammatory Compound
Curcumin is a natural anti-inflammatory compound that can help fight inflammation, although very high doses may be required to give medical results. However, this means that it has the ability to fight inflammation, which plays a prominent role in many health conditions and diseases.
3. Boosts Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor
Curcumin is also fat-soluble, meaning it hydrolyzes and dissolves in fat or oil. For this reason, it may be a good idea to take curcumin supplements with a high-fat meal.
4. Reduces the Risk of Heart Disease
Curcumin may also help reduce the risk of heart disease, the number one cause of death in the world. Research suggests that curcumin may help protect against several steps in the heart disease process.
5. Effective in Preventing Cancer
Turmeric is effective in preventing cancer, with its main compound, curcumin, having been studied as a useful herb in cancer treatment. It has been found to affect the growth and development of cancer cells. Reduces angiogenesis (growth of new blood vessels in tumors); It reduces the spread of cancer.
6. May Be Useful in Treating Alzheimer’s Disease
Curcumin may also be useful in treating Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia, which may contribute to up to 70% of dementia cases. Inflammation and oxidative damage are known to play a role in Alzheimer’s disease, and curcumin has been found to have beneficial effects on both.
7. Reduces the Risk of Arthritis
Arthritis patients respond well to curcumin supplements, with a study on people with osteoarthritis showing that curcumin was more effective in relieving pain than a placebo.
8. Has Benefits Against Depression
Curcumin has shown some success in treating mood disorders, with its positive effects on the brain including boosting the brain neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine, reducing inflammation, and promoting brain plasticity.
9. May Help Delay Aging and Fight Age-Related Diseases
Curcumin may help delay aging and fight age-related diseases, with its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties helping to reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer’s.
10. Frequently Asked Questions about Turmeric and Curcumin
Is it Good to Take Turmeric Daily?
Due to the health-benefiting properties of turmeric, it is not a bad idea to consume it daily. If you stick to 12 grams or less, you’re less likely to experience side effects like diarrhea, constipation, or vomiting.
Who Should Not Take Turmeric?
Pregnant or breastfeeding women, people with gallbladder or kidney problems, and people with bleeding disorders, diabetes, or iron deficiency should limit their turmeric intake. If you suffer from any of these conditions, ask your doctor before taking turmeric. Also, don’t forget to ask him if turmeric interacts with any other medications you are taking.
Can Turmeric Burn Belly Fat?
There is research suggesting that curcumin, the main component of turmeric, may help reduce belly fat. However, it is better to consult your nutritionist about this issue.
Conclusion
Turmeric – especially its most active compound curcumin – has many scientifically proven health benefits, such as the potential to improve heart health and prevent Alzheimer’s disease and cancer. It is a powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant, and may also help improve symptoms of depression and arthritis. While these benefits are possible, they may not be universal for everyone. Therefore, experts advise you to consult a doctor first before starting to use turmeric as a vital substance to improve your overall health.