Curry Powder
Curry powder is a mixture of spices widely used in Indian cuisine. One of the main ingredients used in curry powder is turmeric---also known as curcumin. Recent research has proven turmeric as a powerful anti-inflammatory with many positive health benefits.
Adding more curry powder to your meals, drinking turmeric tea, or taking supplement turmeric capsules are ways you can boost your intake of this healthy spice.
Possible Alzheimer's Disease Prevention
According to USA Today, Alzheimer's disease is four times more prevalent in the United States than it is in India, where curry powder is a dietary staple. Although more research is needed, promising results have emerged from studies on mice and human brain cells. One study showed that curcumin assists in ridding the human brain of the plaque that is responsible for confusion and memory loss linked to Alzheimer's disease. The Linus Paling Institute cites cases where mice fed curcumin exhibited less inflammation and oxidation (markers of Alzheimer's disease) in their brain.
Arthritis Relief
With over 24 anti-inflammatory compounds, the curcumin in curry powder can greatly reduce the pain and swelling accompanied by people suffering with arthritis. USA Today noted one study that showed curcumin prevented rats from developing rheumatoid arthritis, and halted joint damage in rats that had already developed arthritis.
Aids in Healthy Aging
Glutathione, an antioxidant that protects cells from stress, is increased when curcumin is introduced. According to research at the University of California at San Diego, glutathione has been shown to have a direct effect on aging and is linked to a longer lifespan. Conversely, low levels of glutathione are associated with aging eye problems like glaucoma and cataracts.
Possible Cancer Fighting Properties
James A. Duke, Phd., who recently summarized over 700 clinical studies dealing with turmeric's health effects, found that in most cases the spice performed as effectively as pharmaceuticals in treating and preventing various cancers in animals. Whether or not these effects can translate to humans remains to be seen.
Tags: Alzheimer disease, curry powder, human brain