Could curry be good for your brain? An exciting new study finds that a compound in turmeric (curcumin) could be key to staving off Alzheimer’s disease.
Of the 96 middle-aged to elderly participants, those who took a placebo experienced mental decline within a year, which was not observed in those who took a curcumin supplement three times a day.
It’s the strongest evidence so far that curcumin prevents proteins called beta amyloids clumping together and destroying neurons in the brain.
But it’s not the first time that turmeric has made its mark in the wellness world (and we’re not just talking on our hands and benchtops). Here are five reasons why we can’t get enough of the yellow stuff.
1. Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory.
Curcumin is known to decrease inflammation (pain and swelling). From the common cold to chronic arthritis, it’s a handy natural alternative or supplement to painkillers. Plus, it’s safe to eat as much as 8,000mg a day! Get that curry down ya.
2. It calms autoimmune disease.
Autoimmune diseases are highly inflammatory, so of course it makes sense that turmeric could help. In fact, experts believe there is sufficient evidence to show that curcumin alleviates symptoms of multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and inflammatory bowel disease.
“If you have autoimmune disease of any sort: turmeric is your friend,” says Sarah. “I eat it as often as I can and it’s made major inroads into my puffiness from that damn ole thyroid disease. It’s an anti-inflammatory – it inhibits the enzyme which is responsible for inflammation, puffiness and throbbing.”
3. Curcumin also has anticancer potential.
We know, it seems like every day there’s a new food that “prevents” cancer. But turmeric’s anti-cancer activity has been the subject of numerous studies, and one review suggested that “curcumin has enormous potential in the prevention and therapy of cancer”. We’re watching this space.
4. It’s the best excuse to eat fat.
Okay, we don’t really need an excuse to eat fat. But just in case you wanted one, turmeric is fat-soluble, meaning you need to eat it with fat for the body to absorb it properly. Try adding a spoon of ghee to your turmeric rice next time.
5. Most of all, it’s delicious!
Who doesn’t love an earthy, warming curry?
Or a comforting cup of tea tonic?
Anti-inflammatory Turmeric Tea
Or a sweetly spiced dessert, perchance? Turmeric can do it all!
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