The Many Benefits of Turmeric

A little change in diet can change your whole world! Check out the many health benefits of turmeric!

I would like to take some time to sing the praises of the healing spice turmeric and its phytochemical curcumin. Turmeric is the deep orange-colored Indian spice which contains this miracle substance. It was widely used in traditional Chinese medicine as well as Ayurvedic medicine as an amazing antioxidant; which as we know, is a soldier against free radicals running through our bodies and wreaking havoc on our cells. It is credited for halting precancerous changes in our DNA. It also stops cholesterol from oxidizing, helping to keep plaque from growing in the arteries. Best of all, unlike pharmaceuticals, turmeric does not have side effects and almost no negative side effects; except maybe one. Since it acts a natural blood purifier and thinner, it’s not recommended to be used by persons on regular blood thinner regimens.

Basically, we know turmeric as the superhero of anti-inflammatories. It has been known to benefit a portion of patients with advanced pancreatic cancer and even liver disease. We know that conditions and diseases like ulcerative colitis are the result of an overactive immune system, or sometimes referred to as an autoimmune disease. By ingesting turmeric on a regular basis, we can help calm down this overactivity and treat these diseases naturally by implementing the spice medicinally. It’s easy to incorporate into foods such as fruit smoothies, protein shakes, steamed veggies, soups, and stews by adding 1–2 teaspoons depending on the recipe and personal preference. Turmeric is also available in capsule form for those who do not like the potent taste.

Aside from decreased inflammation, this herb has the power to increase energy and stamina and reduce abnormal muscle movements. When it comes to digestion, research illustrates the herb greatly stimulates the gallbladder and secretes bile to assist in breaking down digesting food while increasing the fat, vitamin and mineral absorption while simultaneously decreasing gas and bloating. Another perk of reduced inflammation, enhanced digestion, and more energy is also weight loss. It's a win-win!

Another way turmeric may be used is for pet health. If you give your furry friend only ½ a teaspoon of turmeric (depending on their weight) on their food daily, it will help keep inflammation and infection at bay as well as it does for humans. Your pet’s skin will be less itchy and prone to rashes, and their energy will increase while they feel healthier and happier. Allergies have been shown to dissipate as well. Turmeric is often given to dogs to naturally treat chronic skin conditions, ear infections, digestion issues, and more. To aid the absorption of turmeric, you may add a pinch of black pepper. Simply sprinkling the herb on top of your dog or cat food would be best. Better yet, mixing a bit with coconut oil will help them to enjoy the new taste as they also benefit from the anti-inflammatory benefits of coconut oil. This simple yet effective treatment is cheap, effective, and has immeasurable benefits!

Bottom line, when it comes to health, sometimes small changes impact us most! Reducing inflammation, enhancing digestion, and improving vitality may be much easier than we think we begin to implement small everyday habits. Give turmeric a try and let us know what you think!

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