Turmeric is a member of the ginger family, a division of the gymnosperms – these are the botanical facts about this colourful root whose powder we use mostly in cooking. Recently, however, in addition to the kitchen, turmeric has also found a place in healthy eating and cosmetics. What are the benefits of its daily use? Here are some of them:
It is a powerful antioxidant
According to a number of studies, oxidative damage is thought to be one of the mechanisms of aging and is also associated with a number of other diseases. One of the reasons why antioxidants are considered extremely beneficial for health is that they protect our body from free radicals. These in turn can lead to DNA damage. Because of its chemical structure, curcumin can neutralize these harmful substances and have a beneficial effect on the body’s own antioxidant enzymes.
According to a number of studies, oxidative damage is thought to be one of the mechanisms of aging and is also associated with a number of other diseases. One of the reasons why antioxidants are considered extremely beneficial for health is that they protect our body from free radicals. These in turn can lead to DNA damage. Because of its chemical structure, curcumin can neutralize these harmful substances and have a beneficial effect on the body’s own antioxidant enzymes.
May reduce depressive states
While there are not many studies on this action of turmeric, there are some studies that show that this spice may be relevant to reducing symptoms of depression. This is probably due to the influence that curcumin has on neurotransmitter function.
Beneficial effects on diabetes
According to a study done, the substance contained in turmeric is 400 times more powerful than one of the most commonly used anti-diabetic drugs. The use of curcumin can improve the treatment of insulin resistance and be used to alleviate pre-diabetic conditions.
It has a powerful anti-inflammatory effect
Inflammation in the body signals a process in which it tries to deal with viruses and bacteria. Unfortunately, however, not all inflammation is harmless. According to studies that have been done, chronic inflammation at a lower level can be directly linked to adverse health conditions. These can include: metabolic syndrome, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and other degenerative conditions. Of course, before proceeding to the use of supplements, you should always make a consultation with your attending physician. After the opinion expressed by him, you can inquire and get turmeric in the form of capsules or pills.
Turmeric can help to reduce weight
Recently, the use of turmeric has been increasingly recommended by fitness trainers and healthy eating consultants. You can add it to your daily menu in the form of a smoothie, golden milk or simply as a condiment to your soups and meals. What could account for its slimming effect? Perhaps the answer lies in the curcumin. It aids digestion, liver and kidney function, and also stimulates fat burning. Of course, to achieve optimal results, it is advisable to combine the consumption of turmeric with a good diet and exercise regime.
Boosts immunity
The immune system is directly linked to the digestive system. The digestive process is the elimination of waste substances from the body, while at the same time, beneficial substances are extracted, absorbed and distributed throughout the body from whole foods. Better absorption of vitamins and minerals is a guarantee of better overall health and therefore better immunity. The benefits of turmeric have a beneficial effect on the good functioning of the digestive system, thus increasing the body’s natural defences.
Helps with hair loss
Excessive hair loss is almost always associated with some nutritional deficiency. This is due to a diet poor in nutrients, as well as bad habits and external factors such as stress and chronic overwork. Damage to hair follicles can result in minimal hair growth and an inability to produce new hairs. According to some studies, you can neutralize these processes if you use turmeric as a dietary supplement or as a main ingredient in masks and creams.