We all know that indigestion can be a real pain, and it’s often recommended to avoid spicy foods. However, what if we told you that there is one spice that might actually help alleviate indigestion? We’re talking about turmeric – the golden-orange spice that’s commonly used in curry dishes, tea, rice, soup, smoothies, and marinades.
Turmeric has been proven to have a range of health benefits, thanks to its active compound curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. For centuries, turmeric has been used as an herbal remedy throughout Asia. And now, recent research has found that turmeric can be just as effective as a widely used drug for treating indigestion – without the serious side effects that come with the drug. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of turmeric for treating indigestion and how it compares to prescription drugs.
Turmeric for Indigestion
We all know how uncomfortable and painful indigestion can be. Fortunately, there is a natural remedy that may help alleviate the symptoms. Turmeric, a spice commonly used in Indian cuisine, has been found to be just as effective as prescription drugs in treating indigestion.
A study published in BMJ found that participants who took turmeric capsules saw similar reductions in pain and other symptoms as those who took omeprazole, a common prescription medication for indigestion. Even more promising, those who took both turmeric and omeprazole experienced even greater improvements.
Not only was turmeric found to be effective, it was also safe and well-tolerated by participants. So next time you’re experiencing indigestion, consider trying turmeric as a natural alternative to prescription medications.
Turmeric benefits
We have learned that turmeric has been found to have numerous health benefits due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. One study found that people with ulcerative colitis who took 2 grams of curcumin a day along with prescription drugs were more likely to have their symptoms stay in remission than people who took the drugs alone.
Additionally, turmeric may lower the risk of heart disease. Among healthy adults who took curcumin supplements for 12 weeks, resistance artery endothelial production, which is linked to high blood pressure, was improved. Some research also suggests that curcumin may protect those at risk for heart disease by lowering certain levels of cholesterol.
Furthermore, curcumin may also play a role in fighting depression, preventing cancer, improving memory, and lessening the pain from arthritis and other conditions. In fact, among people who had coronary artery bypass surgery, those who took 4 grams of curcumin a day had a 65% lower risk of having a heart attack.
Turmeric is often added to soups, smoothies, rice, and curry dishes. It is a versatile spice that can be easily incorporated into a variety of dishes to provide its numerous health benefits.
Turmeric supplements
We can benefit from adding turmeric to our diets as it is rich in phytonutrients that protect the body by neutralizing free radicals and shielding cells from damage. Turmeric supplements contain curcumin, which has many biological activities, including managing inflammation. Inflammatory conditions like arthritis, joint disorders, colitis, allergies, and infections might be managed with turmeric supplements. However, turmeric supplements should not replace prescribed medications. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before taking turmeric supplements, especially if we have any underlying medical conditions or are taking other medications.
Side Effects of Turmeric
While turmeric and curcumin have been shown to have many health benefits, they can also have side effects when taken in large doses or in combination with certain medications.
One potential issue is that the curcumin in turmeric is not easily absorbed by the body. However, combining turmeric with black pepper can increase its bioavailability by up to 2,000%.
It’s important to speak to a healthcare provider before taking turmeric or curcumin if you are on painkillers like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or aspirin, as they may interact with these drugs. Turmeric can also interfere with some chemotherapy drugs, blood thinners like warfarin, and the immunosuppressant tacrolimus.
In rare cases, high doses of turmeric may cause gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, diarrhea, and stomach upset. It may also cause allergic reactions in some people.
As with any supplement or medication, it’s important to use turmeric and curcumin responsibly and under the guidance of a healthcare provider.