Curcumin, The Spice of Life!

Good Morning Ladies,

                                                                        
I have been hearing so much about this spice.  Curcumin, which comes from the curry spice tumeric has been used for thousands of years to fight disease and promote good health.  Curcumin, I have read, can positively affect every organ system in the body.  Curcumin can protect the brain against stroke.  And studies suggest it may help prevent or fight prostate, pancreatic, breast, and colon cancers.  (While anticancer drugs weaken the immune system, Curcumin actually enhances it by acting as an "immunorestorer.")
Individuals who consume a lot of Curcumin are less likely to experience cognitive decline....suggesting that Curcumin could help protect the nervous system against aging and may help prevent the pathological processes of Alzheimer's.
Curcumin has demonstrated antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capabilities.  According to researchers, it shows promise in the fight against cystic fibrosis and multiple sclerosis.  It also may protect against cataracts.   It may reverse some of the damage associated with high blood sugar levels.  It may even be an effective treatment for skin diseases such as psoriasis and wounds.

Curry Dish

                      Some ways to use Curcumin

•Add 1/4 teaspoon to a pot of grain while cooking. Best bets: brown rice, Basmati rice, quinoa or millet



•Stir 1/2 to 1 teaspoon into a pot of soup


•Add a dash to your favorite guacamole


•Add a healthy pinch to a container of hummus


•Mix a little into bean spreads for sandwiches


•Stir fry veggies such as broccoli, onion, carrots and sweet peppers, and add a pinch of turmeric along with some ginger, garlic and tamari


•Stir a dash into yogurt


•Make a banana smoothie truly yellow by adding a pinch of turmeric


•Make salad dressing and add a pinch, or add it to your favorite bottled dressing
  
     (these ideas taken from the whole foods blog)




I guess the question is, why are we not using Curcumin?  I have never used it.  I never really knew what is was.  But I am definitely going to start using it!  Curcumin is a miracle spice!!!



Click here to read more about Curcumin.


Click here to learn about foods that contain Curcumin.



Some of this info was taken from "Life Extension"