Short Answer: Turmeric is good for arthritis. Because it has curcumin and other compounds that can reduce inflammation, pain, and stiffness in your joints, and prevent or slow down the progression of arthritis6
Arthritis is a condition that affects your joints, which are the places where your bones meet and move.
In arthritis, your body’s immune system attacks your own tissues, causing inflammation, pain, swelling, and stiffness in your joints.
This can lead to various health problems, such as reduced mobility, joint damage, and disability.
One of the key factors in managing arthritis is diet.
What you consume can affect your inflammation levels, which can impact your arthritis symptoms and overall health.
To effectively manage arthritis, you should consume anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and fish, and avoid pro-inflammatory foods like red meat, processed foods, sugar, and alcohol.
Now, turmeric is a spice that comes from the root of Curcuma longa, a plant in the ginger family.
It has a bright yellow color and a warm, bitter flavor.
People usually use turmeric as a seasoning in curries, soups, and teas, or as a supplement in capsules, powders, or extracts.
Turmeric is good for arthritis because it contains curcumin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Curcumin can help reduce inflammation, pain, and stiffness in your joints, and prevent or slow down the progression of arthritis.
One teaspoon of turmeric can give you about 200 milligrams (mg) of curcumin, which is about 10% of your daily needs.
Curcumin can positively affect arthritis by blocking the activity of inflammatory molecules, such as cytokines, prostaglandins, and nuclear factor-kappa B.
Curcumin can also scavenge free radicals, which are harmful substances that cause oxidative stress and damage your cells.
Furthermore, turmeric is a spice and spices are good for arthritis.
Because, they can enhance the flavor and aroma of your food, making it more enjoyable and satisfying.
They can also provide other beneficial compounds, such as vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals, that can support your immune system and overall health.
You can eat up to one tablespoon of turmeric per day safely.
More than that can cause side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, stomach upset, or allergic reactions.
Also, you shouldn’t eat turmeric if you have gallstones, bile duct obstruction, bleeding disorders, or diabetes, to prevent worsening your condition.
Because, turmeric can increase bile production, interfere with blood clotting, lower blood sugar, and interact with some medications.
You can buy fresh turmeric in your local market or can order it from online.
Always choose organic, non-irradiated, and pure turmeric, without any additives or fillers.
Because, these factors can affect the quality and potency of turmeric and curcumin.
You can store them in a cool, dry, and dark place for up to a year.
Finally, remember, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management and essential medical care is key to managing arthritis effectively.
I always recommend my arthritis patients to follow an arthritis-friendly diet to improve their overall well-being, and enjoy a longer and healthier life.