Turmeric is what gives many dishes that lovely, deep golden colour. But that’s not all its worth: turmeric has been used in cooking for hundreds of years. It not only provides colour and flavour, but its nutritional benefits have also been used in Ayurvedic and other traditional medicines across China and India.
Read on to find out the health benefits of fresh turmeric, plus some of our favourite recipes.
Health benefits of fresh turmeric
Research has found turmeric to contain medicinal compounds called curcuminoids. Curcumin is the main active ingredient in turmeric that may provide a range of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant health benefits, discussed below.
While turmeric has many potential benefits, it shouldn’t act as a replacement for medicinal treatment prescribed and provided by a health professional. Always consult your GP when adding it to your diet to ensure it won’t counter any of your medications.
1. Gut health & immunity
Turmeric contains several bioactive compounds. Bioactive compounds have been found to improve gut health and immunity. Regularly consuming turmeric can lead to these improvements.
2. Anti-inflammatory
Curcumin has been found to help fight inflammation, although very high doses are needed to produce medicinal results. However, regular consumption may help people suffering from inflammation, such as osteoarthritis and muscle pain from exercise.
3. Heart disease
Research has found to suggest that curcumin may help blood sugar management, lower cholesterol, and help manage or lower risks of other aspects of heart disease.
4. Anxiety and depression
Smaller studies have found that turmeric may increase brain levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which plays a role in memory, learning, and areas of the brain responsible for eating, drinking, and body weight. However, this needs to be confirmed by more studies.
5. Treatment for Alzheimer’s disease
It’s known that inflammation and oxidative damage are major factors in Alzheimer’s disease. Since turmeric contains anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative compounds, research has found that it may be beneficial to consume regularly (and in somewhat high amounts) to help combat inflammation and oxidative stress that contribute to Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
Our favourite turmeric recipes
1. Braaied lamb with tamarind and turmeric tomatoes
2. Sweetcorn, coconut and turmeric soup with paprika-fried prawns
Sweetcorn, coconut and turmeric soup with paprika-fried prawns
3. How to make the best turmeric latte
4. Puffed Pancake with Prosciutto & Turmeric Eggs
5. The Turmeric Latte smoothie bowl
