Sprinkling just one gram of turmeric on your breakfast could improve memory for those at risk of cognitive impairment, according to a new study from the Monash Asia Institute at Monash University in Australia.
Those in the early stages of diabetes, which is connected to dementia, could benefit in particular, according to study leader Mark Wahlqvist, Emeritus Professor, who says early intervention could either halt the disease or reduce its impact.
In the placebo-controlled study, 48 male and female participants were given one gram of turmeric with white bread for breakfast and their memory was tested before and after the meal.
Participants were over 60 years of age and all had newly recognized, untreated diabetes. The control group was given two grams of cinnamon on their white bread.
"We found that this modest addition to breakfast improved working memory over six hours in older people with pre-diabetes," says Wahlqvist.
No changes were observed in participants who had received cinnamon instead of turmeric.
Turmeric is a common ingredient in Asian cuisine. Its distinguishing yellow color comes from curcumin, which accounts for three to six per cent of turmeric, and studies have suggested curcumin reduces the risk of dementia.
"Our findings with turmeric are consistent with these observations, insofar as they appear to influence cognitive function where there is disordered energy metabolism and insulin resistance," says Wahlqvist.
The study was published in the Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
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12 Surprising Health Benefits of Turmeric
Alzheimer's Disease(01 of44)
According to ebook "Turmeric: The Wonder Spice," in countries where turmeric is regularly consumed, such as India and Malaysia, Alzheimer’s is particularly rare. A University of California-Los Angeles study found that the spice may slow down the progression of the disease. (credit:Getty)
Arthritis(02 of44)
The anti-inflammatory qualities in turmeric can help reduce signs of certain forms of arthritis. Eating turmeric on a regular basis can help relieve mild arthritis pain. (credit:Getty)
Weight Management(03 of44)
Studies have also found that turmeric can help increase the rate at which your body breaks down food. Taking just one teaspoon before a big meal can help with digestion and quickly break down fat. (credit:Getty)
Certain Cancers(04 of44)
Turmeric can also help prevent cancer, according to CNN. The spice has been found to protect against radiation-induced tumours. It’s been found to be particularly effective in cancers such as T-cell leukemia and prostate cancer. (credit:Getty)
Depression(05 of44)
According to ebook, "Turmeric: The Wonder Spice," a clinical research group in India tested both regular antidepressants and turmeric’s effectiveness in curing major depression. Both were deemed equally effective, except turmeric didn’t have side effects. (credit:Getty)
Diabetes(06 of44)
Turmeric can help moderate insulin levels. It also works with diabetes medicine to increase its effectiveness. (credit:Getty)
Cardiovascular Disease(07 of44)
"Turmeric: The Wonder Spice" reports that a study done in India found that if eaten regularly, turmeric lowers bad cholesterol and increases good cholesterol. (credit:Getty)
Liver Disease(08 of44)
According to CNN, turmeric increases the production of enzymes that break down and reduce toxins in the body. (credit:Getty)
Infections(09 of44)
After burns, cuts and other similar injuries, turmeric can be applied to the wound to help it heal quickly and prevent infections from forming. (credit:Getty)
Boost Immune System(10 of44)
The antibacterial and antiviral qualities in turmeric strengthen immune systems to help prevent colds, flus and other common viral infections. (credit:Getty)
Healthy Skin(11 of44)
Turmeric is commonly used to cure skin problems like acne or scarring. It’s said to leave the skin with a glow. (credit:Getty)
Digestive Problems(12 of44)
Turmeric is commonly used in South Asia to relieve gas and bloating after heavy meals. It’s simply mixed in water, milk or yogurt and consumed. (credit:Getty)
Ginger: Fire Up Your Vitality(13 of44)
Well known in the West for its anti-nausea health properties, ginger is also thought to relieve the aches and pains of arthritis, headaches, sore muscles, and menstrual cramps. Since ancient times, Chinese physicians have regularly consumed ginger tea to keep their vitality fired up. Indeed, its warming qualities will have you sweating in no time! Brew yourself some ginger tea by thinly slicing a half-inch piece of fresh ginger root. Drop the ginger into a mug, add boiling water, and steep for 10 minutes. Add lemon and honey for extra flavoring. Ginger is also delicious in marinades, vegetable dishes, and sweets.
Garlic: Heart Helper(14 of44)
Garlic, the spicy favorite in Italian cooking, does more than just whet your appetite. In addition to its antibacterial and antiparasitic properties, garlic has been shown to improve cholesterol, lower blood pressure, and may even prevent cancer. According to the National Health and Medical Research Council, consuming half to one clove of garlic daily may reduce cholesterol by nearly ten percent, thanks to garlic's active ingredient allicin. Because the allicin in garlic is damaged by heat, it is best to use raw garlic -- great news for your heart, but bad news for your breath. To balance out the pungency, chew on fresh parsley, mint, or basil.
Turmeric: Fight Inflammation And Increase Circulation(15 of44)
Turmeric, the yellow spice that gives curry its distinctive color, helps improve circulation and prevents blood clots. In fact, did you know that the modern anticoagulant coumadin, which is used to prevent blood clots, originally came from turmeric? The active component in turmeric is called curcumin. If you are a curry fan, you will be happy to know that this substance is associated with anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and antioxidant properties. Its anti-inflammatory benefits make it suitable for treating pain in your joints or muscles. In one randomized control study, 107 patients with knee osteoarthritis received either 800 mg daily of ibuprofen or 2 grams daily of Curcuma domestica extract -- and both groups showed improvement in pain on level walking and climbing stairs. Turmeric also combats amyloids, the plaque-like proteins that build up in brain tissue and lead to such diseases as Alzheimer's and rheumatoid arthritis.
Cinnamon: Lower Blood Sugar(16 of44)
Valued for its health benefits since ancient times, particularly in India and Asia, cinnamon has recently enjoyed time in the research spotlight. Many clinical studies have linked cinnamon consumption to lowered blood sugar. Research has demonstrated improvement in insulin sensitivity with cinnamon polyphenols, as well as total and LDL cholesterol. Cinnamon is also thought to detoxify the system and stimulate brain function. Its antiseptic properties give it the ability to combat bladder infections, and if taken in the first 48 hours, a cup of strong cinnamon tea may prevent a bladder infection. While mixed study results make it difficult to prove these benefits on paper, it doesn't hurt to sprinkle some on top of your next bowl of cereal!
Cardamom: Pep Up Your Energy(17 of44)
Found in curries, rice dishes, and sweet breads, cardamom is the spice that gives chai tea its characteristic flavor. Cardamom has long been valued medicinally in Asia for its ability to increase circulation and improve your energy level. Considered an aphrodisiac in some cultures, cardamom also helps improve digestion, freshen your breath, brighten a bad mood, and may even increase your mental acuity. A compound found abundantly in cardamom, cineole, has been found to enhance the ability of rats to navigate mazes.
Rosemary: Stimulate Your Brain(18 of44)
Rosemary, the aromatic herb that instantly brings to mind Mediterranean cooking, contains volatile oils that help stimulate brain activities and increase brain alertness. Like cardamom, rosemary contains cineole. Rosemary also aids in digestion and perks up your immune system. It has been used to treat headaches and poor circulation. Steep it as tea, use in your poultry dishes and soups -- or just crush some up to fill your home with its revitalizing scent.
Cloves: Tasty And Toasty(19 of44)
Considered a warming herb, cloves are delicious in cooked fruit, sweet vegetable dishes, roasts, and tea. Cloves have been used since ancient times in India to improve digestive function. You can chew on some to relieve toothaches, sore throats, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. This herb's warming and moving properties are thought to help treat cold hands and feet, tendonitis, and lower back pain. One Word Of WarningAlways discuss with your physician before treating conditions with herbs and spices to avoid any adverse interactions; for example, because garlic and ginger possess natural blood-thinning properties, individuals about to undergo surgery and those taking blood thinners should take extra precaution.You can find many more herbs that will spice up your longevity in Secrets of Longevity: Hundreds of Ways to Live to Be 100, which is now available on Kindle. If you are interested in a lifestyle program designed to transform your health and lengthen your years, check out my new book Secrets of Longevity 8-Week Program.I hope you make the most of herbs and spices. May you live long, live strong, and live happy!
Anise(20 of44)
Anise seeds provide a sweet taste similar to that of black licorice when used in foods. They can calm an upset stomach and help with coughs and runny noses. Thanks to presumed estrogen-like properties, anise may increase milk flow in breastfeeding mothers, treat menstrual symptoms and boost libido, according to WebMD.It's also a good source of fiber and calcium, among other nutrients, and a very good source of iron, with 2.4 milligrams in just one tablespoon. (credit:Flickr:geishaboy500)
Ashwagandha(21 of44)
The leaf and berry are helpful in treating a vast array of ailments: calming anxiety, lowering inflammation and blood pressure and strengthening the immune system, according to WebMD. (credit:Flickr:cliff1066™)
Astragalus(22 of44)
This root is often used in Chinese medicine, treating conditions related to cold and allergies, like running nose, itching, and sneezing. It is also used to strengthen the immune system. (credit:Alamy)
Burdock(23 of44)
It's possible to cook and eat the root of this plant as food, but, along with its leaves and seeds, it's also used in supplement form, mainly to fight bacteria and inflammation and to "detox" the body. (credit:Flickr:LadyDragonflyCC )
Calendula(24 of44)
The petals of this flowering plant (a relative of the garden-variety marigold) are full of the plant-based antioxidants known as flavonoids, which fight germs and inflammation, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.Calendula is often used to help ease upset stomachs, but when applied directly to the skin, may help heal burns, cuts and bruises. It has also been used to treat a sore throat, as its anti-inflammatory properties seem to decrease the swelling there, according to WebMD. (credit:Flickr:Ano Lobb. @healthyrx)
Cilantro(25 of44)
Cilantro is high in vitamin K, reports Livestrong. And that, in turn, improves bone strength and helps the blood clot. (credit:Flickr:TheHungryDudes)
Cinnamon(26 of44)
There's some research to suggest that cinnamon may lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes and reduce cholesterol levels.It's also a very good source of fiber, with 4 grams per tablespoon, and, because of that warm, sweet flavor, it might also satisfy your cravings for treats without adding calories or fat, Cheryl Forberg, R.D., told YouBeauty.com. (credit:Flickr:trophygeek)
Cumin(27 of44)
Like cinnamon, cumin may help people with diabetes keep blood sugar levels in check. But it also has powerful germ-fighting properties that might prevent stomach ulcers, YouBeauty.com reported. Cumin is also a very good source of calcium, iron and magnesium. (credit:Flickr:grongar)
Dandelion(28 of44)
Dandelion greens have been used in Native American and eastern medicine to help with liver, kidney and spleen problems, though there isn’t any clinical research data to support those claims. Still, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, “Today, traditional or folk uses of dandelion include use as a liver or kidney 'tonic,' as a diuretic, and for minor digestive problems.” (credit:STAN HONDA/AFP/Getty Images)
Fennel(29 of44)
Fennel, native to the Mediterranean area, has a similar flavor to licorice, just like anise. And while both made our list, it's for different health benefits. Fennel can help with bloating, gas and other digestion issues, according to WebMD, and may be particularly useful in quelling heartburn, Health.com reported. (credit:Flickr:cookipediachef)
Ginger(30 of44)
This popular, spicy root is a well-known nausea remedy for pregnancy-related illness, as well as chemotherapy and motion sickness. There is some limited evidence that it might be an effective painkiller too: treating arthritis, joint pain and muscle soreness. (credit:Flickr:William Brawley)
Ginseng(31 of44)
There are a number of different types of this healthful root. American ginseng has been shown to decrease blood sugar levels in people with Type 2 diabetes, slow colorectal cancer cell growth, shorten how long that cold lingers and boost immunity. Asian ginseng also seems to boost immunity, as well as improve mental health and reduce stress. It's what's known as an adaptogen, which helps the body balance the natural stress response, writes Mark Hyman, M.D. The ancient (and well-studied) root has been used for more than 5,000 years for memory, energy and to combat depression, Dr. Patricia Fitzgerald, HuffPost Wellness Editor, explains. (credit:Shutterstock)
Holy Basil(32 of44)
This type of basil is often used to treat high cholesterol (although the research isn’t conclusive). What’s more, according to WebMD, some limited research shows many other benefits from the herb, including upper respiratory infections, asthma, diabetes and more. Researchers believe that this is because compounds in holy basil decrease pain and swelling. It is also used to alleviate the effects of stress. (credit:Flickr:rubel roy's photography)
Lavender(33 of44)
The well-known calming and soothing effects of this plant help ease stress and promote sleep. But there are some lesser-known benefits of lavender. Eating it, as part of a spice mix, can help beat bloating, Health magazine reported, thanks to its antioxidants known as polyphenols. And, in oil form, it can stop itching and swelling when applied to the skin. (credit:Flickr:loop_oh)
Licorice(34 of44)
You're likely more familiar with licorice in candy form, but licorice root makes for a sweet treatment for coughs, asthma and heartburn, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.It may also help whittle your middle: A small 2003 study found that people who consumed 3.5 grams a day of a "commercial preparation of licorice" had less body fat after two months. (credit:Flickr:aSIMULAtor)
Milk Thistle(35 of44)
An herb that is often processed into capsule form, milk thistle is thought to help delay the growth of cancerous tumors, thanks to its richness in the antioxidant silymarin, according to National Cancer Institute. Although studies show that milk thistle capsules can be a complimentary treatment from some cancers, the research is not conclusive enough for the FDA to approve its use. It's also known for liver protective properties. (credit:Flickr:dmott9)
Mint(36 of44)
Mint is helpful in treating a number of digestive ailments, but most notably irritable bowel syndrome. In one 2011 study, researchers found that peppermint oil was effective in alleviating symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. (credit:Flickr:alice_henneman)
Nutmeg(37 of44)
This common baking spice is a good solution for stomach problems and seems to fight off bacteria and fungi, according to WebMD. It's a solid source of fiber, and, thanks to anti-inflammatory properties, could help smooth blemishes when applied directly to the skin, according to Glamour. (credit:Flickr:Calgary Reviews)
Oregano(38 of44)
Oregano has both antibacterial and antifungal properties that make it effective against some forms of food-borne illnesses and even some antibiotic resistant infections. It has also been found to be effective against yeast-based infections like vaginitis and oral thrush. (credit:Flickr:cookbookman17)
Passionflower(39 of44)
Discovered in Peru in the 1500s by Spanish explorers, this flower has calming effects. It seems to increase certain chemicals in the brain that naturally ease insomnia and anxiety, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Experts recommend drinking a passionflower tea or trying it in capsule form. (credit:Flickr:TANAKA Juuyoh (田中十洋))
Rosemary(40 of44)
This popular garden herb is rich in rosmarinic acid as well as many other antioxidants, making it fantastic against inflammation. There’s also some evidence that it stimulates the production of acetylcholine, which in turn helps boost learning and memory. (credit:Flickr:alice_henneman)
Saffron(41 of44)
This spice can tame PMS symptoms and help with mild to moderate depression. It's also often used to help asthma and coughs, according to WebMD and as an aphrodisiac, but there's little research into why. (credit:Flickr:Guillaume Paumier)
Schizandra(42 of44)
You can actually eat schizandra berries, according to WebMD, but they're also beneficial in supplement form or dried and steeped into a tea. Schizandra is most well-known for its anti-aging properties. Dr. Oz called it a "miracle pill" and a "youth-enhancer" on an episode of his show, thanks to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help the body shed toxins. It's an adaptogen, meaning it lowers levels of the stress hormones in the blood. Schizandra has been linked in preliminary studies to treating hepatitis C. It can also boost liver function and the immune system, as well as ease anxiety, writes Fitzgerald. (credit:Alamy)
Thyme(43 of44)
This common garden herb is full of antioxidants, like thymol, lavonoids apigenin, naringenin, luteolin, and thymonin. Antioxidants prevent cellular damage that can boost overall health and help prevent cancer, inflammation, signs of aging and more. (credit:Flickr:cookbookman17)
Turmeric(44 of44)
Tumeric, the main spice in curry and a relative of ginger, is used to treat everything from depression to liver disease to skin ailments, according to the National Institutes for Health. Like many folk remedies, there isn’t conclusive research on how effective the spice is against many of these maladies. But some good research shows that tumeric has helped patients with arthritis and with heartburn. (credit:Flickr:Steven Jackson Photography)