Numerous Benefits of Turmeric Coffee... Discover Them

SadaNews - There is no doubt that coffee enhances energy and focus thanks to its caffeine content, which stimulates the nervous system and reduces fatigue.

But have you ever tried adding turmeric to your coffee?

Despite the limited research on this beverage, both ingredients have well-studied health benefits, according to "Health" website.

Coffee is rich in antioxidants and can enhance focus and energy levels. Meanwhile, turmeric contains curcumin, a compound with strong anti-inflammatory properties. Combining the two may help alleviate joint pain, improve heart health, and assist with weight management.

Here are the main benefits of this drink:

1- Reducing Inflammation

Curcumin - the main active compound in turmeric - has strong anti-inflammatory properties.

Inflammation is a natural part of the body's defense against injury or infection. However, chronic inflammation (long-term) can damage healthy cells, increasing the risk of cancer, heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer's, and other health conditions.

Studies suggest that curcumin may be particularly beneficial for inflammation-related diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), arthritis, atherosclerosis, and depression.

2- Pain Relief

Turmeric coffee may help relieve pain caused by inflammation.

Research indicates that turmeric may be as effective as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen in alleviating pain and inflammation. Data illustrates that turmeric may reduce pain and improve range of motion in individuals with knee osteoarthritis.

Moreover, curcumin has been shown to help reduce muscle soreness after exercise, potentially enhancing recovery and athletic performance.

3- Providing Antioxidants

Both coffee and turmeric offer a range of antioxidants, which are compounds that neutralize harmful molecules to prevent cell damage and diseases.

A review of studies found that antioxidants in turmeric - especially curcumin - significantly enhance antioxidant activity in the body, reducing oxidative stress that occurs when free radicals in the body outnumber antioxidants. Over time, this can play a role in aging, chronic inflammation, and cancer.

Similarly, coffee contains antioxidants, such as chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid, which can also help protect against cell damage and oxidative stress.

4- Supporting Heart Health

Turmeric may enhance the heart health benefits of coffee.

Research from the American Heart Association (AHA) shows that increased turmeric consumption may lower the risk of death from heart diseases. This may be because curcumin helps prevent plaque buildup in the arteries.

Atherosclerosis occurs when accumulated plaque hardens and narrows arteries over time. This can reduce oxygen-rich blood flow, leading to chest pain, discomfort, or even blockage, which can cause a heart attack or stroke.

Curcumin may also improve zinc levels in the body. Some studies have linked zinc deficiency to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.

5- Aiding Weight Control

Coffee contains many compounds, including chlorogenic acid and caffeine, which may slightly increase fat burning and weight loss.

It appears that turmeric also has beneficial effects on weight loss. A research review found that taking curcumin supplements helped reduce body weight, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference. However, the weight loss was relatively modest, averaging less than 90 grams.

Hence, more research is needed to understand how turmeric affects weight loss, especially taken in the amounts typically found in turmeric coffee.

6- Improving Digestion

Adding turmeric to your morning coffee may help improve digestive health. In one study, curcumin helped reduce gas and bloating in individuals with indigestion. Other studies indicate that curcumin may enhance gut health and digestion by increasing beneficial bacteria and reducing harmful bacteria in the gut.

Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric may also help alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), improving stomach pain and overall quality of life.

7- Mood Boosting

Turmeric coffee may have a positive effect on mood. A recent study found that people who drink 2-3 cups of coffee daily are less likely to experience depression and anxiety.

Another research review suggests that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin may help reduce depression. However, research is still in its early stages, and more studies on humans are needed.

8- Enhancing Brain Function

Regular coffee is known for its ability to boost alertness, focus, and energy. In the long term, research suggests that caffeine in coffee may help reduce the risk of brain diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

Recent research shows that curcumin may have similar health effects on the brain. One study found that curcumin can increase levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which plays a role in memory and learning. Decreased levels of BDNF are associated with poor memory and brain diseases.