Turmeric Is This Year’s Biggest Health Trend. Here’s Why

As Heidi Klum says on Project Runway, in fashion one day you’re in and the next you’re out. Well, the same is true for many health fads. Right now is turmeric’s time to shine, and looking into the health benefits of turmeric explains why we need to be eating more of it. Turmeric is the spice that gives curry its color. It contains curcumin which is a bio-active compound that has many health benefits. You can use it to season food, take supplements, or drink turmeric tea. If you are looking to add a little boost to your health and your meals, consider using more turmeric! Here are eight reasons why there are so many turmeric powder health benefits to know about!

1. It has many medicinal properties.

The spice has been used in India for thousands of years as a medicinal herb. The medicinal property that is present in turmeric are called curcuminoids, and the most prominent curcuminoid in turmeric is curcumin. Curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties and lots of antioxidants, which are super beneficial to our health.

2. Turmeric helps to improve brain function.

Because of this, it lowers your risk of brain diseases like Alzheimer’s because it boosts the hormone BDNF in your brain. This hormone increases the growth of new neurons and a bunch of other science-y stuff. All you need to know is turmeric equals healthier brain.

3. It lowers your risk of heart disease.

Here’s a not so fun fact- heart disease is one of the top reasons of death in the world. The curcumin in turmeric improves the function of endothelium (the lining of the blood vessels).

4. It helps prevent cancer.

Curcumin can help reduce angiogenesis, metastasis, and help kill cancer cells. It is especially helpful in preventing cancers that form in the digestive system. It is currently being studied to understand the exact effects of curcumin on cancer prevention as well as helping to cure cancer.

5. It livens up meals.

This is one of the best turmeric powder health benefits! Turmeric is peppery, earthy, and a little bit bitter.

6. It improves mental health.

In several studies on the effects of curcumin on depression, mood, and anxiety, there has been a strong correlation between eating the spice and improvements in symptoms compared to those taking a placebo pill.

7. It is low in sodium, calories, and sugar.

Aside from the health benefits that are a result of curcumin, turmeric is also a great spice to use when you want to add a little bit of flavor to your cooking because it is low in sodium, calories, and sugar.

8. It’s versatile.

Turmeric is a really great spice to incorporate into a lot of different recipes. You can also saute it with onions, ginger, and garlic. Another popular way it is used is to make golden milk, which I hadn’t heard of but from I’ve read it is healing. Interestingly, it is also used in American mustard, butter, cheese, popcorn, and other processed foods to color them.