What are the health benefits of turmeric! Let us discuss

What is Turmeric?

Turmeric is a spice, bright yellow in color. It is typically used for color and flavor in Asian cuisine. Turmeric belongs to the Zingiberaceae family. Many times this plant is confused with Crocus sativus, which is known as saffron or true saffron. As both plants have yellow pigments this mix-up often happens. It is believed that turmeric has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-spasmodic, anti-fungal, antiviral, and neuroprotective properties, and much more.

It contains bio-active compounds with very powerful medicinal purposes. Turmeric contains something called curcumin, this compound works as an anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant agent. So, the followings are the benefits of turmeric -

Lowers blood sugar

According to the centers for disease control and prevention more than 100 million adults in the United have diabetes or pre-diabetes. Did you know that type 2 diabetes a combination of genetic factors and lifestyle is responsible for 90-95% of all cases of diabetes! According to research published in the Journal of Nutrition & Intermediary Metabolism curcumin can act as a hypoglycemia agent.

Turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory

Curcumin found in turmeric is an inflammation blocker. It blocks the inflammation and acts as an anti-inflammatory.

May reduce cardiovascular disease

The largest mortality worldwide is caused by cardiovascular diseases (CVD's), and much attention has been focused to optimize the treatment regimens and unravel the mechanisms. By improving the function of the lining of your blood vessels turmeric may reduce cardiovascular disease.

Alleviates arthritis

Due to the presence of curcumin a type of antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties found in turmeric, many studies including one published in the Journal of Medicinal Food suggest that curcumin can reduce pain, swelling, and rigidity in joints affected by arthritis. It is necessary to take curcumin combined with black pepper otherwise your body will have some trouble absorbing the substance.

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Reduces weight gain

This spice can boost your weight loss efforts. According to studies, weight loss and BMI reduction are somewhat linked with curcumin that is found in turmeric. Turmeric by itself doesn't do much for weight loss but it can help mitigate the inflammation associated with obesity and slightly helps in fat burning.

Lowers the effects of irritable bowel syndrome and colitis

People who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome are in a constant fight against stomach cramps, bloating, diarrhea, and other unpleasant intestinal issues. Curcumin, present in turmeric has the potential to lessen these symptoms. According to a 2018 study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine and according to another study curcumin has also shown interesting results in the treatment of ulcerative colitis. A serious intestinal inflammatory disease that causes ulcers in the digestive tract because of an autoimmune response.

The results are amazing, aren't they! If you have any of these symptoms talk to your doctor but remember that when consumed in excess it may cause stomachaches. Some side effects are discussed below.

Side Effects

When it comes to tolerating turmeric it seems to do well but few side effects have been seen. The most common side effects observed in clinical studies are gastrointestinal symptoms that include dyspepsia, constipation, distension, diarrhea, gastroesophageal reflux, nausea, vomiting, stomach ache, and yellow stool. Individuals who have obstruction of the bile duct, liver disease, cholangitis, gallstones, or any other biliary disease should avoid turmeric as it can increase bile secretion. Also If you have surgery scheduled or if you are pregnant, you must avoid turmeric.

It is always necessary that you ask your health care provider before starting any dietary supplement or turmeric/Curcumin as a preventive or supportive therapy. Your health care provider will be a good person to give you information about potential side effects, risks, or medication interactions.