Tasty Turmeric? Totally

Turmeric is a perennial shrub grown in India and other tropical regions of Asia. It has been used for more than 2,500 years medicinally as well as for a versatile spice in tons of different dishes in many types of cuisines. Known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial effects, turmeric proves to be beneficial in treating different health issues, from cancer to Alzheimer's disease. Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric, giving it its strong flavor, rich color and amazing therapeutic benefits.

Following is just a small list of benefits this amazing spice has to offer: 

• Useful in healthy weight loss, as it stimulates the metabolism of fat
• May lower levels of LDL cholesterol (“bad cholesterol”) and total cholesterol in the blood
• Promotes good digestive health
• Used to treat depression
• Helps to stabilize blood sugar
• Increases the speed of wound healing 
• Has been shown to help in the prevention of prostate cancer 
• Known to be effective in treating bronchial asthma
• May prevent melanoma 
• Strengthens the immune system
• Is an antiseptic and antibacterial agent
• Promotes cardiovascular health
• Helps to detoxify the liver
• May prevent and slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease 
• Reduces the risk of childhood leukemia
• Can ease flu symptoms
• May slow the growth,, or halt, certain types of tumors
• Is a potent, natural anti-inflammatory, without side effects 
• Can help to treat arthritis

Wow, what a list! And more studies are continuing to be published about this incredible spice. 

Here are a few ideas to start using turmeric in your diet. It also can be taken as a supplement in powder or pill form for a stronger effect.

I add turmeric to so many things, and always mix with fresh ground pepper as it increases absorption levels dramatically. Try tossing it on scrambled eggs, egg salad, dips, salad dressings, rice, curries, lentils, cauliflower, green beans, onions and other veggies. Eating well has some really terrific recipes to check out, too.

Start incorporating the many uses of turmeric in your meals, or as a supplement, and take advantage of all its tremendous health benefits!

Please note potential side effects and warnings given by WebMD about turmeric:

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Taking turmeric by mouth in medicinal amounts is LIKELY UNSAFE in pregnancy. It might promote a menstrual period or stimulate the uterus, putting the pregnancy at risk. Don’t take turmeric if you are pregnant.

Gallbladder problems: Turmeric can make gallbladder problems worse. Don’t use turmeric if you have gallstones or a bile duct obstruction.

Surgery: Turmeric might slow blood clotting. It might cause extra bleeding during and after surgery. Stop using turmeric at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery.

If you have any questions regarding turmeric, always consult with a doctor first.