Nutritional benefits of turmeric and diseases

In addition to its characteristics organoleptic (taste, texture, smell, color ...), turmeric has become famous for its potential effect anticancer, specifically the curcumin, a chemical compound present in turmeric that seems to be responsible for its properties beneficial for health.

Effects of turmeric on different diseases

Turmeric and inflammatory diseases

In most of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular, metabolic, autoimmune or neurodegenerative diseases, the inflammation process plays a very important role, therefore the power anti-inflammatory of curcumin could have a beneficial effect on them, as well as improve the levels of LDL blood cholesterol.

Turmeric and cancer

Many studies have evaluated the effects of turmeric on cancer, including,,, and. Most studies use different dosages of turmeric or curcumin extract. Some laboratory studies indicate that curcumin can inhibit the multiplication of cancer cells, but without conclusive results.

Turmeric and diabetes

Studies in animals show that after ingesting curcumin in certain doses there is an effect hypoglycemic, that is, it lowers blood sugar. Other human studies have shown curcumin's ability to lower blood glucose in . Even so, studies are too few to be able to affirm its effectiveness for the entire population.

Turmeric and digestive diseases

Curcumin seems to have anti-inflammatory effects that can improve symptoms and reduce medication in the y. Both pathologies suffer inflammatory processes in the digestive tract. Again the studies are very scarce to be able to grant them these properties.

Nutritional components of Turmeric

Turmeric stands out for its content in vitamins and minerals, such as folates, vitamin B3, vitamin C, vitamin E, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, and calcium.

Vitamin E

This vitamin is a powerful antioxidant, is responsible for protecting the body from known free radicals, substances that can damage cells, organs and tissues. In addition, participate in the immune system against the attack of viruses and bacteria, participate in the formation of red blood cells, participates in cellular processes and in the formation of vitamin K among many other functions.

Vitamin B3

Vitamin B3 or niacin is a water-soluble vitamin that participates in the functioning of the digestive system and nervous system. In addition, it participates in the biochemical processes of metabolism, transforming food into energy.

Potassium

This mineral, typical of vegetables, is essential for the transmission and generation of the nerve impulse, it participates in muscle contraction, as well as in the water balance both inside and outside the cell.

Match

The main function of phosphorus is the participation of bones and teeth. It participates in the metabolism of lipids and carbohydrates and helps in the formation, conservation and protein repair of tissues and cells. Participate in the ATP production (molecule that helps to store energy), in kidney function, muscle contraction, nerve impulse ...

Magnesium

This mineral is responsible for maintaining a proper function of the intestines, muscles and nerves, It also participates in the regulation of cardiac contraction, improves the immune system, and is part of bones and teeth.

Folates

Another of the vitamins highlighted in turmeric are the folates, also called folic acid or vitamin B9. It is involved in the production of Red blood cells, in the development of the nervous system, participates in the synthesis of genetic material and in the antibody formation. In addition, it is very important when it comes to to prevent anemias and spina bifida in pregnancy.

In conclusion, it is a great flavor enhancer, it gives color and aroma to our dishes. Now, if we think about including it in our diet for its great health benefits, let's remember that studies show that its benefits are not conclusive. Above all, if we take into account that the amount of turmeric that we are going to take is too small a portion from the therapeutic point of view.

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• Turmeric is a tropical plant used as a species for its great aroma and flavor, and is used as an ingredient in the famous curry.
• It stands out for its content in vitamins and minerals, such as folates, vitamin B3, vitamin C, vitamin E, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium and calcium.
• It has anti-inflammatory power, but not in therapeutic doses, which can replace drugs if needed.

Diploma in Human Nutrition and Dietetics Master in Pediatric Nutrition and Sports Nutrition