I often receive questions about various topics related to health and nutrition. Each week I will try to answer some of the questions posed to me by my readers. Today’s question is regarding a spice root, turmeric, that has been used for centuries.
Q: Dr. Drew, I have heard a lot about turmeric. What is it and how can it help me?
A: The modern Western world is increasingly realizing all the wisdom of the traditional diet and medicine of the Eastern world. In particular, researchers are continually proving the benefits of the ancient Indian spice turmeric. It has been used in both Indian cuisine and medicine for centuries. Today, western doctors and researchers are studying the powerful effects this spice and its most active substance curcumin can have on people’s health.
Background
Turmeric is derived from the underground stems of the turmeric plant. Most people are familiar with it as the most prominent spice in Indian dishes. It is what gives curry its distinctive yellow flavoring.
Beyond its place in the kitchen, it has been used in a medicinal role with impressive results. Scientists attribute the powerful results that turmeric provides to the component curcumin found in turmeric.
Benefits
This powerful substance has been shown to be a strong anti-inflammatory agent. Many of the diseases that plague people today have roots in inflammatory reactions. Everything from joint pain to Alzheimer’s is affected by inflammation within the body. A substance like curcumin that can decrease or diminish this reaction has tremendous potential in disease prevention and treatment.
Studies have shown turmeric to help reduce the pain and symptoms of arthritis. Additionally, data supports that turmeric may block the development of tumors and even prevent Alzheimer’s disease. In India, where the people consume turmeric at almost all meals, the incidence of Alzheimer’s is believed to be the lowest in the world. More research is needed, but the promising results have even the most skeptical medical minds intrigued.
Usage
The impressive results associated with turmeric and curcumin leaves many people wondering how to increase their intake of this powerful spice. The first way is adding it into cooking. In addition to using it in Indian recipes, it can be sprinkled into scrambled eggs and on top of roasted vegetables. It also makes a delicious seasoning for rice and quinoa. Absorption is improved when it is combined with black pepper so people should be sure to add this complementary spice when cooking with turmeric.
People who are interested in getting a higher dose of the beneficial curcumin compound can do so by taking a supplement. The dosage guidelines are widely varied from 50 mg to 1000 mg. Patients are advised to talk with their doctor about the proper dosage for them. A holistic doctor will be particularly helpful in helping determine the proper dosage. Results may take up to eight weeks to achieve.
For more information you can visit:
http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/lifestyle-guide-11/supplement-guide-turmeric
http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/QAA400915/Curcumin-or-Turmeric.html
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