Turmeric is part of the ginger family. It contains medicinal compounds called curcuminoids, the most important of which is curcumin. It’s a common spice in Indian dishes. India was found to have one of the lowest rates of Alzheimers disease, and upon further investigation, it was found that the compound, curcumin is not only a potent anti-oxidant, but also an anti-inflammatory.
How Does Inflammation Relate To Alzheimers?
Studies have found that chronic inflammation plays a major role in degenerative diseases such as Alzheimers, as well as cancer, heart disease, metabolic syndrome and other health issues such as Osteoarthritis. So the medical community put 2 and 2 together, and started to do studies with curcumin, with impressive results.
What Did The Medical Studies Show?
In several studies, its potency has compared favorably to anti-inflammatory pharmaceutical drugs… except without the side effects. Curcumin boosts levels of the brain hormone BDNF, which increases the growth of new neurons and fights various degenerative processes in the brain.
How Do We Get This Into Your Diet?
The good news is that you can find it at any grocery store – it’s also inexpensive. There are some easy ways to use it in your daily diet:
• Sprinkle on egg salad
• Add to soups, and Tagines
• Add to dressings
• Mix with oil and sea salt, and drizzle over corn or steamed veggies
• Add it to your morning smoothie
• Curry (beauty shot)
If you want more information about turmeric, go to
sophieuliano.com.
