Turmeric is becoming increasingly popular in America both as a food flavoring and as a wellness aid. But what is this vibrant spice, what effects does it have on the body, and are the claims that it can be used as a weight-loss aid really true?
What is Turmeric?
Turmeric is the root of a flowering plant, Curcuma longa, which is a member of the ginger family. Like ginger, turmeric has long been used as a spice in cooking, especially in cuisine from the Indian subcontinent, where the plant is native.
However, it’s not just its earthy flavor and bright yellow color that make turmeric popular: it has also been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine for hundreds of years thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Turmeric is most commonly sold as a bright orange-yellow powder, which is obtained by boiling, drying and then grinding the roots. It is this vibrant color that gives us turmeric’s third use: a natural dye.
Curcuminoids: A Powerful Antioxidant
The active component in turmeric, which also gives this supplement its vibrant color, is curcumin, a naturally-occurring curcuminoid. Curcuminoids have been recognized as powerful antioxidants, though research is ongoing as to its medicinal applications.
Antioxidants help to combat cell damage in the body, helping to keep cells functioning healthily. Diets high in antioxidants have been linked to lower risks from diseases and infections.
Could Turmeric Help Me Lose Weight?
First things first: there’s no magical weight loss pill or supplement which will make you lose weight without any work, and turmeric is no exception. However, as part of a healthy weight-loss routine that includes a balanced diet and plenty of exercise, turmeric’s unique properties could aid in reaching and maintaining a healthy weight.
Turmeric’s Anti-Inflammatory Properties
In addition to its antioxidant properties, turmeric is often used as an anti-inflammatory in Ayurvedic medicine. Chronic inflammation is linked to conditions like heart disease, strokes, and diabetes, all of which can be exacerbated by obesity. If you’re looking to lose weight for your health, turmeric could help to reduce the likelihood of these conditions.
Inflammation can also cause joint problems like arthritis, which can make exercise difficult or even impossible. By reducing inflammation and helping your body to heal, gentle exercise for weight loss can be a more achievable goal.
Turmeric for Digestive Health
Turmeric has also been linked in studies to improved metabolism, and it is often used as a digestion aid as it is thought to stimulate the production of digestive juices. Although more research is needed on these links, better gut health and a properly functioning metabolism are important components of any weight loss routine.
Does Turmeric Have Any Side-Effects?
Although turmeric is a natural supplement, it can have certain side effects and interactions. It can interfere with some medications, especially blood-thinners like warfarin. People with diabetes should be careful when taking turmeric as it can lower blood sugar levels. High doses can cause stomach upset due to excess acid production, which can cause ulcers. If in doubt, consult your doctor before taking high doses of turmeric or use it in small quantities in cooking instead.
How to Add Turmeric to Your Diet for Weight Loss
Although scientists are still trying to determine exactly how turmeric can be used as a health supplement, including for aiding weight loss, the good news is that it’s all-natural and pretty tasty too. In addition to its traditional use in curries, try adding turmeric to your usual milk (we recommend plant-based milk) along with a little ginger or cinnamon to make golden milk, a soothing and refreshing drink.
Another delicious way to incorporate turmeric into your diet is as a rub for meat or vegetables: simply mix it with equal quantities of ground cumin, ginger, and coriander, along with garlic powder and a little salt, to make a zingy spice mix. The spice can also be used in a wide variety of dishes as a natural alternative to food coloring.
Turmeric for Weight Loss as Part of a Healthy Lifestyle
Turmeric, for all its amazing uses, will not make anyone lose weight on its own; regular exercise and a healthy diet are the only ways to do that. However, as part of a healthy lifestyle, turmeric could help to support weight loss thanks to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and digestion-boosting properties.
If you’re looking to add more turmeric to your diet in a simple and easy-to-dose way, Reboot by PurePower contains turmeric, in addition to ginger, Boswellia (another natural anti-inflammatory), full spectrum, water-soluble CBD hemp oil, and other natural herbal extracts to help get your body back to peak performance more quickly. By helping your body to recover, it will be easier to get out and get exercising – the most sure-fire way to lose weight healthily.
