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Ya know how Red Hot’s saying is “I put that sh** on everything?” For us holistic wellness practitioners, we feel that way about turmeric. This medicinal spice has some major powerful properties and has been used for centuries in Indian Ayurvedic medicine (which plays a role in my Metabolic Balance® program) to reduce inflammation, reduce pain or stiffness associated with arthritis/rheumatoid arthritis, slow cancer growth, improve mental health function and soothing the digestive system (source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92752/).
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As modern medicine is beginning to recognize the intense benefits of traditional medicine, we are seeing more & more practitioners utilize plants, herbs, and supplements for healing.
Curcumin, the most active compound in turmeric, is poorly absorbed when taken alone so you might not be reaping all the of healing benefits. But have no fear, here are the top two ways to get the biggest bang for your buck.
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But before you start dumping turmeric on everything, you need to know the right way to use it!
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Eat with Fat
Turmeric is FAT SOLUBLE, meaning it needs to be consumed with a fat so that your body can use it. For years, in my nutrition
practice, I have been using a supplement called Procosa, which is great for supporting healthy joints. This supplement contains Meriva, which is a highly unique form of curcumin (turmeric) that is combined with fat for better absorption, which provides maximal support for healthy inflammatory balance.
Any recipe with turmeric should have a high-quality fat like unrefined cold-pressed coconut oil, grass-fed ghee, or cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil paired with it. Check those ingredients!
Sprinkle Pepper
Pepper contains a compound called piperine, which increases the absorption of turmeric. While there is mixed evidence on this, I say, sprinkle the pepper cause I have read more evidence for than against. (Read more here from Dr. McGregor).
Here are two of my favorite recipes:
**Coconut Ginger & Turmeric Millet Bowl
**Golden Milk (see recipe below)
Here’s a good recipe to follow – the perfect way to end an evening.
Ingredients (serves 2):
1 cup plant-based milk
1 tbsp. fresh turmeric
1/2 tsp. fresh ginger
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1 tbsp. Ceylon cinnamon
1/4 tsp. nutmeg
1/4 tsp. Pure Vanilla
1 tsp. raw organic honey
Directions:
1) Blend ingredients until ingredients are thoroughly combined.
2) Transfer to a saucepan and bring to a simmer over low heat.
3) Simmer for 2-3 minutes, turn off the heat and pour golden milk into two mugs.
5) Serve and enjoy!
