Turmeric 101

What is Turmeric?

You probably know turmeric as the yellowish-orange colored, earthy tasting cooking spice in your kitchen, most often used in curry dishes. But, did you know that an element found in turmeric has been shown to have health benefits, specifically when it comes to menopause symptoms?

Let’s break it down:

1. A substance called curcumin is found in turmeric.
2. Curcumin is a polyphenol.
3. Polyphenols are chemicals found in plant-based foods that act as antioxidants and provide health benefits. Popular examples of polyphenols are red wine and dark chocolate.⁽⁴⁾
4. Curcumin can be extracted from turmeric and ingested as a supplement for health benefits.

“Studies show curcumin supplementation
may reduce inflammation, which may improve joint pain. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may help to reduce several types of cancer, regulate cholesterol and promote healthy skin and gums.”

– Dr. Mary Claire Haver

Curcumin's Anti-inflammatory Potential

Decrease Visceral (Belly) Fat⁽¹⁾

Curcumin may have an anti-obesity effect. Ingesting curcumin has been shown to decrease visceral fat tissue and protect against obesity and other metabolic diseases.

Decrease Inflammation⁽²⁾

Curcumin may decrease the oxidative stress and inflammation that occurs with fluctuating and declining hormone. Studies show it may provide natural protection against these markers of aging and other degenerative diseases.

Decrease Hot Flashes^{(3, 5)}

A significant decrease in hot flashes in postmenopausal women was observed after four weeks of curcumin and vitamin E supplementation.

Address Pain Associated With Osteoarthritis⁽⁶⁾

The anti-inflammatory nature of curcumin may relieve symptoms of osteoarthritis. It may also help to prevent deterioration of cartilage which may improve pain.

Protect Cardiovascular Health (When Combined With Exercise)⁽⁴⁾

Daily curcumin supplementation combined with regular exercise may improve blood flow, which has an important effect on overall cardiovascular health. This combination may help slow age-related heart-health problems.

Manage Anxiety and Mood^{(5, 7)}

Declining hormone levels can lead to anxiety and other mood disturbances. Curcumin’s antioxidant properties may boost mood and guard against these changes in the brain.

Support Gut-Microbiome Health⁽⁸⁾

Declining hormone levels can change the distribution and structure of intestinal microflora, resulting in poor gut health. Curcumin may partially reverse these changes to improve the microbiome and overall gut health.

Put A Natural, Plant-Based Antioxidant To Work For You.

Experts are encouraged about the potential benefits of curcumin supplementation, especially for the population of women in menopause. The anti-inflammatory effect may support your health goals and be a great complement to the Galveston Diet’s anti-inflammatory approach to nutrition.

Turmeric Supplement

By The 'Pause Nutrition
Get it Now