Turmeric is a great way to increase your levels of antioxidants and boost your nutrition.
This spice is definitely one of my top 5 most nutritious ‘foods’. It is a power house of nutrients and can be used in so many dishes.
Curcumin, the active ingredient of turmeric, has so many health benefits; it helps to protect cells against free radical damage which can damage DNA, increasing the risk of disease such as cancer and heart disease. It can help boost the immune system, lower cholesterol and help balance blood sugar but one of its key properties is as an anti-inflammatory and pain killer. Several studies have shown that curcumin is as effective as some anti-inflammatory drugs but without the side effects!
If you suffer with any inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, joint pain or any diseases where inflammation is present (heart disease, endometriosis, period pains, IBS, Alzheimer’s and even cancer) then add turmeric to your diet. Many experts believe curcumin is a number one supplement when it comes to cancer.
In fact, even if you’re healthy add this spice to your diet as it will help fight against disease and premature ageing.
Here are a few more ideas of how to add turmeric powder to your diet:
- Add to curry dishes – this is often the primary ingredient used in many traditional curries.
- Mix in to homemade hummus for that extra boost of nutrition.
- Sprinkle over homemade sweet potato wedges with some paprika
- Add to stews and soups – as long as you don’t go overboard you won’t taste it.
And if you don’t fancy eating it, make a face mask! Mix together a few teaspoons of goats yogurt, some turmeric powder and raw honey until it forms a paste. Spread over your face and leave for 10-15 minutes, the therapeutic properties will soak into your skin 🙂