Can this spice help with weight lose?
Turmeric is an awesome spice that has not gotten sufficient attention in American kitchens. It is produced by boiling, drying, and grinding the “root” of a perennial plant endemic to India. The bright orange powder has a slightly sharp and bitter flavor, but it is not hot like a chili.
In Asia, turmeric has been used for thousands of years both as an ingredient and as medicine. The active ingredient in Turmeric is curcumin, an antioxidant that helps reduce damage to cell membranes. Additionally, curcumin helps reduce inflammation.
There is currently no evidence that turmeric can directly lead to weight loss, but it may help inhibit weight gain. In an interesting experiment, curcumin that was injected into fat cells of mice inhibited the growth of blood vessels among the fatty tissue. This made it harder for them to expand, and decreased the rate of weight gain. Further research is required to see if this is applicable to humans as well.
The classic use of turmeric is in Indian curry dishes. If you don’t have the time and spice collection to prepare an Indian dinner, there are still plenty of ways to add turmeric to your dishes:
For aromatic rice, add a teaspoon of turmeric into the boiling water during preparation.
Add a pinch of turmeric when making scrambled eggs and omelets.
Include turmeric when sautéing vegetables.
For an extra colorful orange soup, add a teaspoon of turmeric.
Add 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric to your smoothie.
Please note that turmeric has a very bright color that may stain your counter top and clothes.