Turmeric uses
Dear Donovan,
I read one of your articles on the Internet about turmeric. Can it be taken to help me lose weight, and how do I take it? Also, what are some of its other uses in health care?
A large proportion of the human population is now being affected by obesity, and this has now become a large-scale social and medical problem. The first step in dealing with obesity is to start a weight loss programme. Several studies have shown that the best and possibly only way to lose weight and keep it off is to adopt a healthy lifestyle programme — one which has a healthy meal plan, along with activity/exercise.
Research has shown that several herbs and spices can help in the weight loss process. Turmeric is an example of one spice which can help. It is used in cooking, cosmetics and herbal medicine. Turmeric has been show to increase weight loss brought about by dietary changes, and increase serotonin and dopamine levels which lead to reduced depression. Curcumin, the bright yellow chemical produced by turmeric, has been shown in research to actually suppress fat tissue growth in mice.
The starting recommendation for turmeric consumption is about a quarter to a half teaspoon per day, and then it can be increased to about two teaspoons after about two to three weeks. In most cases turmeric teas and supplies can be bought at the supermarket and health food stores.
Please note though that although turmeric may help reduce fat cell expansion, it isn’t a weight loss miracle. You must still eat less and exercise more to create a calorie deficit to lose the extra pounds.
We will answer your weight-related questions
Are you struggling to lose weight or just need some advice on living a healthier life? Tell us about your health issues and we’ll have nutritionist and wellness coach Donovan Grant answer them for you. Grant has over 12 years’ experience in the fitness industry and is the owner of DG’s Nutrition and Wellness Centre, 39 Lady Musgrave Road. Call him at 876-286-1363. E-mail questions to clarkep@jamaicaobserver.com.
