Turmeric, which belongs to the ginger family, has been used since ancient times as a spice and medicinal plant. This sunny spice gives many dishes their characteristic yellow color and flavor. In India, turmeric has been used for over 2000 years, but all the beneficial properties of this plant, perhaps, are not known until now. However, today there are a number of reasons why you should include turmeric in your diet. estet-portal.com will tell you more about the benefits of turmeric in this article.
Important points and contraindications for the use of turmeric:
Turmeric's most active ingredient is curcumin, which makes up 3% of the weight of turmeric. It is important to know that turmeric by itself is not well absorbed into the bloodstream. However, common black pepper, which contains the natural substance piperine, significantly increases the absorption of curcumin.
Important! If you have chronic diseases, gallstones, bleeding disorders, or are taking any medications, you should consult your doctor before using turmeric.
Although turmeric is generally safe to consume, some people may experience stomach problems, nausea, diarrhea, skin rashes, bleeding disorders.
Next we will look at:
- the benefits of turmeric in the fight against inflammation;
- the benefits of turmeric in the fight against free radicals;
- The benefits of turmeric in the fight against cancer and Alzheimer's disease.
Benefits of turmeric in fighting inflammation
Scientists believe that inflammation is an integral part of any chronic disease, including cancer, obesity, metabolic syndrome, heart disease, atherosclerosis, degenerative diseases, and Alzheimer's disease.
In studies, curcumin has been shown to be more effective than anti-inflammatory medications without side effects – ulcers, internal bleeding, and low white blood cell counts. Curcumin fights inflammation at the molecular level. The NF-κB molecule enters the cell nucleus, where it turns on genes associated with inflammation and a range of diseases. However, curcumin is able to prevent such activation.
The benefits of turmeric are shown in the treatment of inflammatory intestinal diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, and relief of joint pain.
Turmeric lowers cholesterol, protects the heart, improves liver function and helps fight indigestion.
The benefits of turmeric in the fight against free radicals
A number of factors enhance the harmful effects of free radicals on the body – chemicals, stress, environment, etc. Free radicals – cause of aging and various diseases. Curcumin, which is responsible for the benefits of turmeric, can combat these problems in two ways.
The antioxidants found in turmeric neutralize free radicals in the body due to its chemical structure and protect against oxidative damage to DNA.
In addition, curcumin increases the expression of phase II antioxidant enzymes, including glutaman cysteine ligase (GCL) and an enzyme that inhibits glutathione synthesis – an important intracellular antioxidant that helps the cell adapt to stress.
The benefits of turmeric in the fight against cancer and Alzheimer's disease
Numerous studies have shown that curcumin inhibits the development and spread of cancer at the molecular level. In addition, curcumin is able to prevent the development of cancer, in particular of the rectum and colon, because it:
- suppresses the growth of new blood vessels in tumors (angiogenesis);
- reduces the spread of cancer (metastases);
- helps destroy cancer cells.
In addition to its benefits in the treatment of cystic fibrosis of the pancreas, liver disease, hemorrhoids, atherosclerosis and stomach ulcers, this plant has been shown to help with Alzheimer's disease.
Curcumin is also able to cross the blood-brain barrier and improve cognitive function. Thus, in the case of Alzheimer's disease, curcumin reduces beta-amyloid plaques, delays the destruction of neurons, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and improves memory.
In addition to the above properties that determine the benefits of turmeric, one can cite: strengthening the gums, removing toxins, analgesic effect, strengthening the immune system, cleansing the blood and lymph, accelerating skin regeneration, etc. Estet-portal.com is convinced: turmeric (in the absence of contraindications) must be included in your daily diet!
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