Nutrition for Sport

Turmeric Spice: Anti-Inflammatory & Cancer Fighting

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Forget the Advil and knock back a shot of Turmeric

Curcumin, the compound in turmeric responsible for that bright hue, isn’t just for making those bold curry colours. Curcumin is has a whole host of the health benefits and is one of the most potent anti-inflammatories in nature.

The journal Oncogene published the results of a study that evaluated several anti-inflammatory compounds and found that aspirin and ibuprofen are least effective, while curcumin, is among the most effective anti-inflammatory compounds in the world. 

For athletes, inflammation is a battle when we’re wanting to feel our best after training. Several studies have suggested that using Turmeric in your daily routine can help to assist in recovery time  so you can get back out there faster and stronger!

Turmeric for preventing cancer

Curcumin is thought to have antioxidant properties, which means it may decrease swelling and inflammation. It’s being explored as a cancer treatment in part because inflammation appears to play a role in cancer.

Laboratory and animal research suggests that curcumin may prevent cancer, slow the spread of cancer, make chemotherapy more effective and protect healthy cells from damage by radiation therapy.

A phase I clinical trial looked at giving curcumin (the active ingredient in Turmeric) to 25 patients with pre cancerous changes in different organs. This study seemed to show that curcumin could stop the precancerous changes becoming cancer.

Research has also shown that there are low rates of certain types of cancer in countries where people eat curcumin at levels of about 100 to 200 mg a day over long periods of time.

Ways to incorporate Turmeric into your meals

Turmeric powder can be added to smoothies, soups and sauces, egg salad, roasted vegetables or meat. Turmeric root has a light flavor and can be grated or chopped and added to recipes.

Check out my recipe for Turmeric Yam Fries or my Ginga Ninja Green Smoothie

*Be aware that turmeric can easily stain your hands and clothes!

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