Turmeric Benefits & Turmeric 'Golden Milk' Recipe

Turmeric is one of those 'super' spices that has a ton of health benefits. It may even be the most effective nutritional supplement in existence based on high-quality studies.

Here are some evidence-based health benefits of Turmeric:

1. TURMERIC ACTS AS AN ANTI-INFLAMMITORY

Results of a study that evaluated several different anti-inflammatory compounds found out that ibuprofen and aspirin are least effective, while cur cumin is among one of the most effective anti-inflammatory compounds in the world.

2. WEIGHT LOSS

Curcumin is known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties, and chronic inflammation is the hallmark of most chronic disease, including diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease. But many people are not aware that obesity contributes to a state of low-grade, chronic inflammation in your body that can trigger metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Curcumin appears to modulate several cellular transduction pathways that contribute to this damaging process.

3. TREATS GASTROINTESTINAL ISSUES

Turmeric has long been used as a stomach soother and is particularly useful for constipation, cramping, and irritable bowel syndrome. The anti-inflammatory activity of curcumin also comes into play here, as it lowers the chances of developing ulcers, bleeding in the bowels, and generally eliminates irritation throughout the gut.

4. IT PREVENTS CANCER

It seems that the whole world is searching for a cure for cancer, as well they should be, and turmeric is one of the best herbal approaches to the treatment or prevention of various types of cancer. Curcumin is a powerful antioxidant agent that has been directly linked to a reduction in colon cancer cells and is also a direct inhibitor of a protein that is essential for tumor growth. This makes turmeric a wonderful addition to any diet as a preventative measure and as a means of slowing metastasis of cancerous growth. The most extensive research on turmeric’s cancer prevention effects has been in colon cancer, whereas other types of cancer research related to curcumin are currently underway.

5. IT DETOXIFIES THE BODY

Turmeric and its active organic compounds have also been found to improve liver function and reduce the levels of toxicity in the body by stimulating the lymphatic system and ensuring that toxins are removed efficiently. This is to say that the antioxidant activities of turmeric are an ideal solution for liver ailments or toxicity.

6. BALANCES HORMONES WHICH COULD LEAD TO TREATMENT OF DEPRESSION

Curcumin truly is a versatile substance, and the research has even stretched into its effects on the hormonal balance in the body. Studies have shown that curcumin has a similar effect as Prozac on patients suffering from depression, mood swings, anxiety, and stress. This makes it a powerful alternative to pharmaceutical routes, which often have dangerous or addictive side effects.

A fun way to have Turmeric is with a Turmeric latte. Creamy, easy golden milk with dairy-free milk, ginger, turmeric, and coconut oil. Naturally sweetened, incredibly healthy, and so delicious. Ready in just 5 minutes!

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups (360 ml) light coconut milk (canned is best, but carton works too)
1 1/2 cups (360 ml) unsweetened plain almond milk (DIY or store-bought)
1 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
1/4 tsp ground ginger
1 cinnamon stick (or 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon)
1 Tbsp (15 g) coconut oil
Pinch ground black pepper
Sweetener of choice (i.e. maple syrup, coconut sugar, or stevia to taste)

Instructions

To a small saucepan, add coconut milk, almond milk, ground turmeric, ground ginger, cinnamon stick, coconut oil, black pepper, and sweetener of choice
Whisk to combine and warm over medium heat. Heat until hot to the touch but not boiling - about 4 minutes - whisking frequently.
Turn off heat and taste to adjust flavor. Add more sweetener to taste or more turmeric or ginger for intense spice + flavor.
Serve immediately, dividing between two glasses and leaving the cinnamon stick behind. Best when fresh, though leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave until hot.

Nutrition Information

Serving size: 1/2 of recipe (1 serving)* Calories: 205 Fat: 19.5 g Saturated Fat: 15.1g Carbohydrates: 8.9 g Sugar: 0 gSodium: 161 mg Fiber: 1.1 g Protein: 3.2 g