Should You Be Cooking with Turmeric?

Turmeric, well known for its use in curry powder, is a great spice to use alone as well. Not only does it offer a delicious flavor to various dishes, it also offers many great health benefits as well. Add turmeric to your foods and you’ll be adding flavor, color, and some great health benefits to your favorite dishes.

Health Benefits of Turmeric

Turmeric offers a wide range of health benefits, many of them coming from curcumin, an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties that’s found in turmeric. Some of these health benefits include:

• Anti-inflammatory – Its anti-inflammatory qualities make turmeric effective at fighting health problems caused by inflammation, such as arthritis, heart disease, and chronic illness.
• Improved Heart Health – Turmeric can help prevent plaque buildup and reduce blood clot risk, improving heart health and reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Some studies even show that this spice can help improve good cholesterol and lower bad cholesterol, further improving heart health.
• Tames Upset Stomach and Heartburn – Indigestion symptoms like an upset stomach and heartburn can be tamed by turmeric.
• Improves Blood Sugar Levels – Studies have shown that curcumin has the ability to stabilize blood sugar levels, reducing the risk and development of Type 2 diabetes. 

Along with these benefits, turmeric may also help reduce cancer risk, improve kidney function, protect against Alzheimer’s disease, and more. It’s also a great source of iron, vitamin B6, potassium, manganese, and copper.

Adding Turmeric to Your Menu Plan

If you use curry powder in your cooking, you’re already getting a healthy dose of turmeric. However, you can use this spice alone as well to provide a warm, earthy flavor to different foods. Use turmeric with veggies to add some color and flavor. Add some turmeric to salad dressings for a unique, deep flavor. Spice up your rice by adding just a bit of turmeric. Put a pinch of turmeric in your hummus, guacamole, or dairy based sauces and dips. Toss a bit of dried turmeric in your hot oil before stir frying veggies.