Turmeric is becoming one of the most popular superfoods amongst Australians. Previously only used as a golden spice in curries, now turmeric has been found to have incredible health benefits. Its main active ingredient is “curcumin” – which has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects for the brain and body. Erin Young, health writer & founder of Zen Green Matcha Tea, reveals her top five health benefits of adding turmeric to your diet.
1. It’s full of antioxidants
Antioxidants are our bodies defence against many diseases. They help prevent and remove free radicals from the body. Free radicals are what cause many diseases like cancer, as well and speed up skin ageing as they damage your body’s cells.
Turmeric is powerful for two reasons- firstly it contains the potent antioxidant curcumin which protects the body and secondly turmeric also stimulates the body’s other antioxidant enzymes so they work better to protect you.
As a result, adding turmeric to your diet will work to defend you against diseases like cancer, Alzheimer’s and diabetes.
2. It’s an anti-inflammatory
Many Australians are living with chronic low-level inflammation from the busy lifestyle and exposure to everyday toxins from pollution, radiation and chemicals in our food. Chronic inflammation can wreak havoc on our bodies, and contribute to heart disease, arthritis and a weakened immune system.
The curcumin in turmeric has powerful anti-inflammatory qualities. In one study, it was proven to be more effective than an anti-inflammatory drug, when used in a study with patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
3. It can improve your mood
Turmeric is often used to naturally treat depression, as it can stabilise mood. It can increase serotonin and dopamine levels – which when low, can cause depression.
The antioxidant in turmeric, curcumin, has been used in scientific studies to treat depression. In one study with 60 patients, patients treated with curcumin showed similar results to the antidepressant Prozac. This has opened up research into using turmeric to treat mental illness.
4. It can prevent Alzheimer’s
Alzheimer’s is caused by a build-up of protein tangles, called Amyloid plaques – as well as inflammation and damage of brain cells.
The curcumin within turmeric has been shown to help clear these plaques. And it also reduces inflammation and oxidative damage.
So, turmeric might help keep Alzheimer’s at bay, or at least, slow its progression.
5. It helps decrease the risk of heart disease
Heart disease is one of biggest killers in the world.
Curcumin in turmeric is used to fight heart disease. Studies show it can regulate blood pressure and prevent blood clotting, by enhancing the lining of blood vessels.
This helps protect the cardiovascular system and keep the heart in good shape.
How to get the most health benefits from turmeric
Make sure you know where your turmeric has come from. Turmeric that is grown in the Alleppey region in India contains the highest level of the antioxidant, curcumin.
It should also be consumed with a hint of black pepper. This contains ‘piperine’ – an enzyme which increases the body’s ability to absorb curcumin by up to 2000%.
Zen Green Tea has created a Turmeric Matcha Tea Mix which contains the highest quality turmeric, green tea powder, cinnamon, nutmeg and a hint of black pepper. Just mix ½ teaspoon with warm frothy milk for a delicious golden turmeric latte!
Exclusive Discount!
Zen Green Matcha Tea are offering our Life Begins At readers 10% off their Turmeric Matcha Tea Mix, with code “LBA10”.
To redeem this exclusive discount, simply:
- Visit Zen Green Matcha Tea
- Add product/s to your shopping cart
- Use the coupon “LBA10” for 10% off your first purchase and free shipping
- Orders will be shipped to you
A little inspiration!
Here are a few easy recipes to help you introduce turmeric into your diet, in no time:
Add Comment