Latest Food Trend: Just Add Turmeric

Turmeric has been used in India for thousands of years as a spice and medicinal herb. We use it often to make curry and to add a little flavor to some of our favorite dishes, but the spice is so much more than just a way to flavor food. Turmeric contains compounds called curcuminoids that are proven to have medicinal properties. One of these compounds, curcumin, is the main active ingredient in turmeric. It has powerful anti-inflammatory effects and is a very strong antioxidant.

What’s so great about this anti-inflammatory compound? It is now believed that chronic, low-level inflammation plays a major role in almost every chronic, Western disease. This includes heart disease, cancer, metabolic syndrome, Alzheimer’s and various degenerative conditions. While inflammation is a naturally occurring process that helps your body heal and defend itself from harm, it also has the ability to become chronic and lead to health issues. Chronic inflammation can be caused by a poor diet or excessive stress.

If you’re feeling stressed or you’re in need of some healthy nutritional options, try incorporating turmeric into your diet. One way that’s becoming very popular to consume turmeric is “golden milk” (also known as turmeric tea). Here’s a recipe to get you started!

Ingredients

• 2 cups of milk of choice (almond, coconut, or dairy all work in this recipe)
• 1 tsp turmeric or turmeric spice mix
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• pinch of black pepper
• tiny piece of fresh, peeled ginger root or 1/4 tsp ginger powder
• 1 tsp raw honey or maple syrup to taste

Instructions

1. Blend all ingredients in a high-speed blender until smooth.
2. Pour into a small saucepan and heat for 3-5 minutes over medium heat until hot but not boiling.
3. Drink immediately.

Pro tip: This may stain blenders and counter tops. The color will eventually fade, but making a thick paste of baking soda and water and scrubbing the stain can help. Enjoy!