Anti-oxidant Spices and How to Use Them
Functions of Anti-oxidants in our Body
Anti-oxidants fight the effects of free radicals such as damage of body cells and the prevention of chronic diseases. It is also famous to slow down rapid aging because of its anti-aging effects. As we grow old, we produce more free radicals the reason why anti-oxidants become essential. It can also protect the heart and keep it healthy by eradicating the presence of cholesterol in our body.
Common foods and drinks with anti-oxidants are tea, coffee, red wine, dark chocolates, fruits, spices and vegetables.
Curcumin Turmeric Listed as an Anti-oxidant Spice
Most of the spices present inside our kitchen contain antioxidants and some are listed below:
- Cloves
Its high level of antioxidant may help get rid of bronchitis, asthma, diarrhea, and others.
- Oregano
Oregano can shield you against infections and other diseases such as cough and colds.
- Ginger
Aside from being an antioxidant, gingers can also reduce inflammation and could prevent Alzheimer’s disease and cancer.
- Cinnamon
To those who are looking to balance their level of blood sugar, this antioxidant is the answer. It also lowers the cholesterol level and prevents development of tumor.
- Turmeric
Curcumin in turmeric also prevents Alzheimer’s disease and helps reduce the level of cholesterol. It also protects the heart and liver and prevents cancer.
How to Use Curcumin as Anti-oxidant
Turmeric has an ingredient called curcumin which is proven effective to fight free radicals and prevent them from growing. If compared to other antioxidants, turmeric curcumin is stronger and more effective aside from its multipurpose effects in our body. According also to studies, turmeric curcumin is 10 times more effective than Vitamin C and up to 8 times stronger than Vitamin E.
Curcumin Turmeric is not a medicine that is only taken when you are already infected with a virus or disease. It is known as a preventive measure so it should be taken in as early as possible and on a regular basis for more efficacy.
Turmeric supplements can come in a power form like the Microingredients Turmeric Curcumin extract which can be added to your food intake because it is odorless and tasteless. You can add it to your beverages by simply putting in the recommended amount, or as a coloring or a combination with your other spices.
How to Take Curcumin Supplements
Turmeric is fat soluble making it more effective with fats, the curry for example because we use oil as one of the ingredients added. It can also get along with milk by dissolving it with a cup of it and some coconut oil. If you want to add it to a salad, dissolve it first in a small amount of olive oil and then toss it with the vegetables or fruits. Some foods with fat contents like the avocado can do the magic.
Recommended usage of curcumin turmeric supplements depends on its form. Powdered supplements will require at least 1000mg up to 3000mg a day. You have to consume 30-90 drops a day of its fluid extract or 1.5-3grams of cut root or fresh turmeric in a day.
Also according to WebMD,
- You will need up to 2000mg turmeric extract to cure an upset stomach and osteoarthritis; and
- For rheumatoid arthritis, you will need up to 1000mg taken twice a day in 500mg per intake
Dosage also depends on the purpose of taking the curcumin turmeric supplement. If it is only for preventive measure, you could use it in low dosages and if for curing illnesses, you might need to use high dosages especially if it needs immediate response.
