The health benefits of curcumin are pretty close to magic. Curcumin is the main substance in turmeric and is known to be one of nature’s best anti-inflammatory additions to any diet.
Many people suffer from inflammation. Inflammation can be extremely harmful when it is the chronic and long-term. Chronic inflammation plays a major role in almost every chronic disease. Curcumin is strongly anti-inflammatory and is so powerful it matches the effectiveness of some anti-inflammatory drugs. While this is not a drug it is a bioactive substance that fights inflammation on a molecular level.
Following are the health benefits of curcumin:
Prevents Cancer
One of the biggest benefits of curcumin includes its ability to stave off cancer development. This is possibly because of its antioxidant properties that have the ability to fight free radicals, one of the prime causes of cancer development.
Lowers Cholesterol
Another benefit of curcumin includes the ability to lower high cholesterol levels. By lowering LDL (the ‘bad’ cholesterol), and increasing HDL (the ‘good’ cholesterol), curcumin can help prevent problems such as high blood pressure and chronic heart disease.
Promotes Immune System Health
Turmeric has often been used to take care of the common cold and cough. This is because the curcumin present in turmeric is a powerhouse of antioxidants and increases the strength of the immune system, thereby making it less prone to developing such conditions.
Helps Indigestion
Those who are prone to the problems of severe indigestion may benefit from taking curcumin on a daily basis. It helps in increasing bile production, thereby curing such problems completely.
Controls Diabetes
Curcumin is found to have anti-hyperglycemic activity, i.e. it can lower the blood sugar levels significantly. It can lower the blood sugar levels and improve insulin secretion in the diabetes patients. It can be very helpful in controlling the blood sugar in people with diabetes
How to Consume Curcumin?
Turmeric’s active ingredient can’t do it on its own. In order for it to be absorbed by your body, it will need some help. There are 3 simple ways to enhance curcumin effectiveness:
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper will increase the bioavailability of curcumin and makes it possible for the body to absorb the curcumin. If you are purchasing a turmeric supplement, there are better ways to increase the bioavailability of the turmeric, for example, turmeric with Meriva.
- Fats: Some studies suggest that curcumin in turmeric is more easily absorbed when taken with fat. Without fat, curcumin can’t make it much farther than the stomach. It typically provides the most benefit when it is absorbed into the bloodstream. One popular way to pair turmeric with fats is to make a golden tea, where turmeric, coconut oil, and milk are dissolved together to make a tea. You can also combine it with oil to cook on your veggies or sprinkle it on an avocado.
- Heat: According to an American study, boiling turmeric for up to 10 minutes will increase its solubility, and may enhance absorption. Simply add it to your tea or too hot dishes