Yahoo News Superfood that's 'good for virtually everything' prevents most illnesses and diseases
A doctor has named a common 'superfood' he says he good for 'virtually everything'. Better still, you may even already have it in your kitchen cupboard without realising just how 'powerful' it is.
Taking to YouTube, Dr Eric Berg DC, who has more than 12 million subscribers, spoke about the benefits of eating turmeric in a video. The health expert, who specialises in healthy keto and intermittent fasting, describes turmeric as "incredible" and "delicious".
Native to Southeast Asia, the turmeric plant has been used for thousands of years as a cooking spice. It’s part of the Zingiberaceae family, which also includes ginger.
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There are different ways you can incorporate turmeric into your diet. You can consume organic turmeric root directly or take it as a supplement.
"If you want to take a supplement, it’s best to get a turmeric supplement and not just curcumin," Dr Berg explained. "Curcumin is only one of many phytonutrients in turmeric. It’s also important that it’s a freeze-dried supplement."
Dr Bergs says if you decide to go organic and buy fresh turmeric root, then simply: "Eat two or three of these per day to prevent a lot of problems." The doctor says you could also increase your intake of black or white pepper, as it can help increase your body's absorption of turmeric.
Before going into the long list of benefits, Dr Berg quickly added: "Keep in mind that the phytonutrients in turmeric are heat sensitive. Cooking with turmeric could make them less potent."
Why is turmeric so good for your health?
Dr Berg says the two main areas of research for turmeric are inflammation and cancer. "A lot of the direct benefits of turmeric can lead to various other powerful effects, and turmeric also has virtually no side effects," he said.
Potential health benefits of turmeric:
It increases glutathione and other antioxidant networks
It has potent effects on the brain and nervous system
It has powerful effects on the cardiovascular system
It’s antimicrobial, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-candida, antifungal, antiparasitic, and anti-H. pylori
It shows great benefits for skin problems
It helps protect the liver
It helps stimulate phase-2 detoxification
It inhibits pro-carcinogens
It increases bile salts
It supports the gut mucosal lining
It helps protect the DNA and supports DNA repair and apoptosis
It protects the cells during chemo or radiation therapy and may increase the effectiveness of the treatment
It supports the endocrine system
It’s a powerful adaptogen
Glutathione is a potent antioxidant in the body. Its potential advantages include safeguarding against illnesses, hindering the advancement of cancer, enhancing insulin sensitivity, and much more.
Research shows turmeric can increase your body's levels of glutathione. A 2023 study also found that glutathione could help treat nonalcoholic fatty liver disease due to its antioxidant properties and potential to detoxify.
Other studies show turmeric may be beneficial for pain relief. One study concluded that it seemed to work as well as ibuprofen in people with arthritis.
Turmeric's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties can also contribute to healthy digestion. Turmeric is even being explored as a possible treatment for people with irritable bowel syndrome.
However, as turmeric can help the stomach produce more gastric acid, this could be great for some people but not others. Turmeric also has purifying qualities that might lead to increased bleeding. The reason for this effect isn't fully understood.
Additionally, turmeric is thought to offer other benefits, like reducing cholesterol and lowering blood pressure, which likely relates to its impact on blood.
Where to find turmeric and potential risks
Plenty of supermarkets sell fresh turmeric spice, or you can get turmeric supplements from Boots or Holland and Barrett. For example, you can get a bottle of 90 capsules of high-strength turmeric from Holland and Barret for £7.99. It is best to take 1 capsule per day, preferably with a meal and do not exceed the stated dose.
Keep in mind that food supplements must not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Although turmeric is full of health benefits, it is not a miracle cure.
If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking any medications or under medical supervision, consult a doctor or healthcare professional before use. People who are on blood-thinning medication should avoid taking big doses of turmeric.
Speak to your doctor before taking turmeric, as can interact with other medications and supplements as well. For more information, visit the NHS website.
