Turmeric has been one of the most sought-after superfoods over the past few years. This spice has received much attention due to its ability to help combat inflammation. Turmeric has been used to help reduce pain related to inflammatory conditions and is now being recognized as a spice that boosts cognitive function. In this article, we are going to explore just how turmeric and cognitive function are connected and how you can start adding this superfood into your diet.
Turmeric and Cognitive Function
One of the reasons why that turmeric is such a powerful spice is due to its ability to potentially improve both memory and learning. A study in mice was done, which showed that turmeric was able to support cognitive function through booting memory in mice who had certain type of stress disorder.
Turmeric is also incredibly anti-inflammatory and holds some potent antioxidant processes which is another reason why it is known to help support cognitive function. It is thought to help support healthy cells while preventing the brain from being affected by oxidative stress. Curcumin, which is the active compound in turmeric, can also help activate the Nrf2 pathway. This is an extremely important pathway and can play a protective role when it comes to brain degenerative disorders. This pathway is needed for detoxification and reducing inflammation.
Another study found that a four-week turmeric supplementation protocol improved both mood and memory of participants. This study researched into some of the potential therapeutic properties of turmeric to see how this spice was able to improve cognitive function of the participants. One reason that continues to stand out is its ability to reduce inflammation as well as improve the function of neurotransmitters. Researchers also found that turmeric can help protect against oxidative stress, and can provide neuroprotective properties due to its ability to help promote neurogenesis.
Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has also been found to enhance levels of BDNF which represents brain-derived neurotrophic factor. This is important for cognitive function because BDNF helps neurons in the brain form new connections and also helps them multiply. This is highly important for helping to prevent age-related brain disorders and even potentially improve memory!
Turmeric & Alzheimer Disease
While we are on the topic of turmeric and cognitive function, let’s talk about the promising benefit of turmeric for those suffering from Alzheimer disease. A study found that the overall memory of the patients with Alzheimer disease in this study improved. This was thought to occur due to the numerous benefits turmeric has for the brain such as anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties and a decrease in beta-amyloid plaques found in the patients with Alzheimer disease. This is a very promising research and something that more researchers need to investigate to see just how powerful turmeric is when added to the treatment protocols for those suffering from dementia.
Other Benefits of Turmeric
Apart from the cognitive health benefits of turmeric, this super spice also holds a handful of other benefits including:
● Natural anti-inflammatory properties
● Boost antioxidant capacity in the body
● Support arthritis symptoms
● Combat depression
● Fights age-related diseases
