There has been a lot of talk lately about turmeric and it’s health benefits. I thought to break some of it down and explain why it is good for us and how we can add it to our diet. I will include a recipe for Golden Milk which is a lovely warm drink that is delicious and super good for you!

Curcumin is the main active ingredient in turmeric. It is a powerful anti-inflammatory and strong antioxidant. Since the curcumin content of turmeric is not that high (only about 3% by weight), many experts say you get the best bang for your buck taking it in a supplement form. Also, another thing to note is that it is poorly absorbed into the bloodstream, so taking it with black pepper in your recipes will increase the absorption by 2000%! Curcumin is also fat soluble which means it will be absorbed better with some fat in your meal.

It’s anti-inflammatory properties are important since chronic, low-level inflammation plays a role in almost every chronic Western disease such as heart disease, cancer, metabolic syndrome, Alzheimer’s and various degenerative conditions.

It’s antioxidant properties decrease oxidative damage at the cellular level which basically ages the cells including the DNA, and works by decreasing free radicals.

You can easily add turmeric to your foods without really noticing it much. Try adding it to scrambled eggs, soups, rice, steamed or roasted vegetables, smoothies, or curries.

Golden Milk:

1 1/2 tsp turmeric powder

1/2 tsp cinnamon powder

1/2 tsp fresh ginger chopped finely or 1/4 tsp ground ginger

1/8 tsp ground cloves

2 pinches of ground cardamom

1 1/2 cup coconut or almond milk

dash of black pepper

raw honey to taste

Blend everything together and simmer in a small pot for 3 minutes and enjoy!