What Are the Health Benefits of Turmeric?

Turmeric (AKA “The Golden Spice”) is found in nearly every pantry around the world. However, it hasn’t always been this way. In fact, in order to properly introduce you to our bestie turmeric, we must travel centuries back in time. 

The turmeric root was first discovered in Southern India 4,000 years ago. While it isn’t the prettiest root (I mean you’ve seen it…), locals loved the way its magnificent color and earthy taste brought new depth to their traditional dishes. But there was something even MORE special about this mysterious root! They noticed that turmeric was an extremely effective disinfectant, and it worked MAGIC at fighting their long-battled skin conditions. 

Since then, extensive research has been done on the spice, confirming its numerous benefits and furthering its popularity. We now know that curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, is responsible for its golden pigment AND holds the bulk of its nutritional value. 

But let’s dive deeper. Why is turmeric so healthy? What are the benefits of turmeric? We have the answers! 

1. Turmeric may help regulate blood glucose levels

Turmeric’s active component, curcumin, is credited with many of its astounding benefits. Research shows that curcumin may decrease the level of glucose in the blood which can be incredibly helpful for diabetes prevention. According to this powerful 2013 study, curcumin could favorably affect most of the leading aspects of diabetes including insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and necrosis.” It’s no wonder that curcumin is a recommendation by many doctors. 

2. Turmeric may help reduce inflammation

You’ve probably heard the word “antioxidant” before. But what does it really mean? Antioxidants prevent or slow damage caused by free radicals (energy deficient molecules which snatch energy from other cells to satisfy themselves). Free radicals are naturally produced by our bodies in low levels (which aren’t harmful), but can build up from outside factors such as radiation or pollution. Curcumin has been ranked by numerous registered dietitians as the most anti-inflammatory herb, and it has been known to counteract many negative effects. 

By reducing the negative effects of excess free radicals, antioxidants protect tissues from inflammatory response. This is a crucial step for preventing arthritis, a common condition that causes pain and inflammation in the joints. It’s no wonder that this golden spice is a favorite amongst athletes who experience wear and tear on their joints for years. Say hello to turmeric and goodbye to inflammation!

3. Turmeric may strengthen cognitive health.    

Curcumin has been proven to increase BDNFs (aka brain-derived neurotrophic factors). These genes, which are found in the brain and spinal cord, increase the lifespan of our neurons. Neurons send and receive signals from our brain and the rest of the body, and since long-lasting neurons = long-lasting memory & increased attention span, BDNFs are beneficial for just about anyone!

For elderly people or individuals at high risk for brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s, turmeric may be even more valuable. That’s because fewer neurons are produced in adulthood, and neurons don’t have the capacity to regenerate. But, while some degree of memory loss is inevitable later in life, adding turmeric to your diet is easy, and can have priceless effects on your cognitive function!

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As you can see, turmeric is one of the most powerful spices in the world. And what’s even better is you can now find it in our Banana Nut NOURISH bar. With all the amazing benefits of bananas, KSM-66 ashwagandha, AND organic turmeric root, it’s no wonder we are so excited about our newest Banana Nut NOURISH bar!

Try our Banana Nut NOURISH Bar today! It tastes just like grandma's homemade banana bread!