Turmeric is a vibrant orange spice with exceptional versatility. From curries to roasted vegetables, this spice infuses its earthy and slightly bitter flavor into any dish. Beyond savory cooking, it also works well in drinks, adding a warming kick to a morning latte or cup of tea. Better still, it’s packed with health-boosting compounds that help ward off inflammation, weight gain, and mood swings. Below are is a deeper look into turmeric’s health benefits and three turmeric weight loss drink recipes to get you started.
Turmeric reduces diabetes risk
Turmeric is packed with curcuminoids, anti-inflammatory compounds that, according to researchers reporting in Diabetes Care, may help ward off diabetes. How? The researchers’ randomized study found that curcuminoids improved the function of the cells that produce and release insulin (known as beta cells). Prediabetic study participants who consumed turmeric every day for nine months did not develop type 2 diabetes.
In addition to improving beta cell function, turmeric’s curcuminoids may also enhance insulin sensitivity, which is crucial for maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. Chronic inflammation is a significant contributor to insulin resistance, a precursor to type 2 diabetes. By reducing inflammation, curcuminoids may help the body respond more effectively to insulin, thereby preventing blood sugar spikes.
Another key benefit of turmeric is its potential to lower fasting blood sugar levels and improve lipid profiles. Some studies suggest that regular turmeric intake can decrease levels of harmful LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, further reducing diabetes risk. Incorporating turmeric into the diet, whether through supplements, teas, or meals, could serve as a simple yet effective strategy to support metabolic health and prevent the progression from prediabetes to type 2 diabetes.
Turmeric aids weight loss
Adding turmeric to your daily diet can help you slim down faster, suggests a 2019 review of studies. A key finding: Ingesting curcumin (a compound in turmeric) each day was shown to lower body mass index in participants with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease after eight weeks. Similar research published in the journal Drug Research (Stuttgart) found that participants who consumed turmeric daily lost significantly more belly fat in eight weeks than those who did not consume turmeric.
Turmeric boosts mood
Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory compounds could also help you feel more cheery. That’s the word from researchers reporting in the journal Phytotherapy Research. In their small study, six weeks of daily curcumin consumption helped to reduce symptoms of major depressive disorder in patients. (Click through for more on how turmeric pain relief tea also helps to lift depression.)
Beyond reducing inflammation, curcumin is believed to influence brain chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine, which play crucial roles in regulating mood. Chronic inflammation has been linked to the development of depression, and by mitigating this inflammation, curcumin may help alleviate depressive symptoms. Additionally, curcumin’s antioxidant properties combat oxidative stress, which is also associated with mood disorders.
Another fascinating aspect of curcumin’s mood-boosting effects is its potential to enhance brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels. BDNF is a protein that supports the survival and growth of neurons, and low levels are often observed in individuals with depression. By increasing BDNF, curcumin may promote better brain health and resilience against stress-related mood dips.
Incorporating turmeric into your daily routine—whether through supplements, golden milk, or cooking—can be a natural way to enhance your mood and support overall mental well-being.
3 delicious turmeric drinks for weight loss
There are many ways to get your daily dose of turmeric: turmeric tea, turmeric water and golden milk are just a few. You can also add the spice to your cooking or try Kelly Ripa’s before bed weight loss tea. For extra deliciousness, try one of the turmeric drink for weight loss recipes below:
Spiced matcha latte magic for weight loss
Ingredients & directions:
- 2 tsp. matcha powder
- 1 ⁄4 tsp. turmeric
- 1 ⁄4 tsp. ground ginger
- 2 cups coconut milk
Heat first 3 ingredients with 1 cup water; divide between 2 mugs. Top each with milk. Makes 2 servings.
Turmeric-ginger coffee craze for weight loss
Ingredients & directions:
- 1 cup almond milk
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 ⁄ 2 tsp. ground ginger
- 1 ⁄4 cup hot espresso
Microwave first 4 ingredients until warm, 1 min. Divide espresso between 2 mugs; top each with almond milk mixture. Makes 2 servings.
Golden turmeric tea for weight loss
Ingredients & directions:
- 1 cup oat milk
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tsp. turmeric
- 1 ⁄4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 black tea bag
Bring all ingredients plus 1 cup water to boil; reduce heat. Simmer 10 min.; strain. Divide tea between 2 mugs. Makes 2 servings.
This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always consult your physician before pursuing any treatment plan.
This article originally appeared in our print magazine, First For Women.
