One of my very favorite things about studying nutrition is learning about all of the amazing ways different foods can nourish and heal our bodies. FOOD IS MEDICINE. I know many people think when they go to see a nutritionist they’re going to be given a list of what NOT to eat, but I enjoy focusing on what we can ADD to our plates.
This week I want to share a special superfood with you: turmeric. Turmeric is actually a root that is made into a spice. The magic lies in a chemical compound in turmeric called curcumin. There have been over 7,000 peer reviewed studies on turmeric and curcumin and its profound health benefits. This truly is a SUPER food!
I have read a lot about the effects of turmeric on inflammation and pain and its pretty darn spectacular! There was a study in the journal of Oncogene that studied aspirin (Bayer, etc.) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, etc.) as well as curcumin. Curcumin was found to be one of the most powerful anti-inflammatory agents in the world, while aspirin and ibuprofen meds were the LEAST effective! Plus, there are much fewer side effects.
Turmeric and curcumin have also been studied to be effective in treating rheumatoid arthritis, depression, diabetes, cancer, healing skin issues such as acne, anti-aging, brain health and memory. There are so many amazing benefits to this superfood.
So, what are the ways you can incorporate it into your diet?
Fresh turmeric root can be found at most grocery stores. It looks similar to ginger but its orange on the inside. Watch out, it will stain your clothes! Just like ginger, you can peel and grate it to add to cooking, soups, marinades, and steep it in hot water for tea. It's delicious in fresh-pressed juices and smoothies!
If you want to use it for medicinal purposes, taking a turmeric or curcumin supplement is the way to go. I love Laird’s Turmeric Coffee Creamer, so if you're a coffee drinker I recommend giving it a shot. I've received about a dozen emails from friends and clients who have been skeptical to try this orange coffee creamer, only to realize that it tastes delicious and they quickly fall in love with it too!
There are a lot of pill supplements out there from reputable companies and I'm personally a fan of NOW Turmeric and Bromelain and NatureWise Curcumin Turmeric.
I also use Simply Organic Turmeric Root when I'm cooking.
My favorite tea brand, Traditional Medicinals, makes a delicious Turmeric Tea with a hint of ginger. It's naturally caffeine free and a wonderful way to start your day.
If you're struggling with inflammation and pain, turmeric might be a powerful tool in your healing process! Keep in mind that an anti-inflammatory diet is about more than throwing superfoods and supplements at the problem. You may need to identify damaging foods in your diet and repair your gut to properly absorb and utilize the superfoods you're taking in.
Inflammation can play a big role in weight loss as well! A lot of the women I work with lose weight quickly and easily when they reduce inflammation in their body.
