At first, it might seem surprising that turmeric could affect brain health or memory. But this superfood has a lot to offer regarding brain benefits and memory improvement, especially when preventing or reducing symptoms associated with diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia. Before we break it down further, you must have a great idea about the human brain and its part.

So whether you are concerned about your brain health or are looking to supplement your diet with something that can improve your child’s memory, consider adding turmeric to your daily routine!

7 Surprising Benefits of Turmeric for Brain Health

1) Anti-inflammatory

Turmeric is a spice used by Ayurvedic physicians in India for centuries as an anti-inflammatory agent. It is beneficial in preventing and treating Alzheimer’s disease because it reduces inflammation in the brain.

In particular, turmeric is one of the most mighty nutritional supplements we have when it comes to fighting inflammation. Curcuminoids in turmeric reduce inflammation and help with other brain health issues such as memory loss and brain fog.

So, if you want to improve your memory or prevent Alzheimer’s, try adding fresh turmeric to your daily routine!

6 Recipes With Turmeric for an Anti-Inflammatory Boost

2) Boosts brain-derived neurotrophic factor

A recent study publicized in the Journal of American Medical Association uncovered that curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, is a promising treatment option for adults with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease. Curcumin is a robust antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent that can halt or even reverse the progression of Alzheimer’s.

One of turmeric’s many benefits is its ability to stimulate brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which plays a vital role in developing new brain cells and preventing degeneration.

BDNF levels significantly decrease as we age, which may be one reason why symptoms like memory loss and depression occur more frequently as we grow older.

3) Enhances memory and cognitive function

Turmeric is a herb that has been used in Indian kitchens for centuries, but recent discoveries show that it can be a nutritional gold mine for your brain.

Curcumin, the ingredient in organic turmeric powder, prevents age-related cognitive disorders. The health benefits of curcumin also include treating depression and arthritis, promoting heart health, and preventing cancer. Check out these seven surprising benefits of turmeric for brain health!

4) Protects against age-related decline

Turmeric is a spice with numerous health benefits and anti-inflammatory effects. Commonly, Indians use it in curries and other spicy and savory dishes. Further, it benefits brain health surprisingly. For example, turmeric has been shown to protect against age-related decline by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, which often trigger Alzheimer’s disease.

One study found that Alzheimer’s patients who were given a daily dose of 1 gram or 2 grams of turmeric experienced significant improvements in cognitive abilities after ten weeks.

Other studies have found that curcumin can reduce beta-amyloid plaques in the brain, thereby preventing or reversing damage caused by Alzheimer’s disease.

5) Reduces risk of Alzheimer’s disease

Turmeric is a spice closely connected to the ginger family. Eastern medicine used this herb for hundreds of years. Curcumin, one of the major nutrients found in turmeric, is a powerful pack of antioxidants that can help protect your brain from free radical damage. As we age, our brains naturally accumulate plaque which can lead to Alzheimer’s disease. Curcumin helps reduce this risk by preventing plaque buildup and reducing inflammation. These two factors are the result of the growth of Alzheimer’s disease.

6) Regulates mood

Turmeric is a well-known spice that has been around since antiquity. It contains the antioxidant curcumin, which has many benefits, including regulating mood and preventing Alzheimer’s disease. Curcumin helps regulate mood by relieving depression, anxiety, and irritability. It also helps prevent Alzheimer’s disease by reducing inflammation in the brain, and it may even have protective effects on the brain against depression.

7) Improves symptoms of anxiety and depression

Curcumin, the ingredient in turmeric, has antidepressant and anxiolytic effects.

One study found that it is as effective as Prozac for people with depression.

Additionally, studies show that curcumin may help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Curcumin also reduces inflammation in the brain, which may be helpful for people with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Curcumin may also help prevent cognitive decline due to aging or neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease.

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References

https://www.hindawi.com/journals/bmri/2021/6645720/