Did you know that curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, has the amazing ability to turn genes on and off. The remarkable spice is shown in recent studies to act on methyl groups and histones (the control panels of your genes).
Curcumin’s positive impact on gene expression appears able to help prevent and treat multiple kinds of cancer, as well as a variety of age-related diseases.
Curcumin can make a huge impact on a process called methylation. One way to think of methylation is like an on/off switch that controls how your genes express themselves.
Scientists have determined that methylation contributes to the progression of a variety of diseases, such as colon, and lung cancer, diabetes, neurocognitive diseases, autoimmune disorders, and inflammatory disorders – it’s a pretty big deal!
The research indicates that the curcumin can “turn off” the genes that could lead to the development of those destructive conditions. In other words, it may be able to help your body keep itself healthy and disease free, even when it comes to hereditary conditions.
While the science on how curcumin impacts our genetic expression is fairly new, this healing spice has been used for centuries in India to treat ailments ranging from the common cold to infections, injuries, and sore throats. It is no wonder why so many Indian foods are filled with this healing spice.
Adding turmeric powder or fresh turmeric root to your meals, such as sautéed veggies, curry dishes, smoothies, and “golden milk” is a great way to take advantage of the health benefits of curcumin.
The one problem is that turmeric (the spice) is only 2-5% curcumin (the active compound), and our bodies aren’t able to absorb and use it very efficiently. So, there are some tricks you can employ to make it more beneficial for you.
- Adding black pepper is said to boost curcumin’s bioavailability by up to 2,000%, so be sure to add black pepper to your turmeric containing dishes
- Heat is said to increase the solubility of curcumin by 12 times, which may also increase its bioavailability in the body
- Use turmeric in its whole root form, and grate as needed.
- When consumed with fat, curcumin is able to bypass the liver and be directly absorbed into the lymphatic system.
Try this delicious and soothing GLOW Golden Turmeric Latte to bio-hack your genes for the better
GLOW Golden Turmeric Latte
8 ingredients · 10 minutes · 1 serving
INGREDIENTS:
1 1/2 tsps Ginger (grated)
1/2 cup Organic Coconut Milk (canned)
1/2 cup Water
1/2 tsp Turmeric (powder)
1 1/2 tsp Raw Honey
1/4 tsp Cinnamon
3/4 tsp Coconut Oil
1/4 tsp Black Pepper
DIRECTIONS:
1. Grate the ginger then squeeze the juice out of it into a saucepan. Discard the pulp. Add the remaining ingredients to the saucepan and place over medium heat. Heat through for about 3 to 5 minutes, not letting it come to a boil. Whisk continuously.
2. Carefully transfer into a mason jar and seal with a lid. Shake vigorously for about 30 seconds, or until foam starts to form. (Note: You can also use a blender for this step, but the turmeric can stain the blender cup.) Pour into glasses through a sieve and enjoy
NOTES:
Use Fresh Turmeric Root
Skip the turmeric powder and use fresh turmeric root instead. Peel turmeric root and grate. Measure out about 1 tbsp grated turmeric root per serving.
Avoid a Mess
Rinse all glasses and mugs out right after use to avoid turmeric stains. Use baking soda on turmeric stains if they do happen.
On-the-Go
Add all ingredients except water to a mason jar. When ready to drink, just add hot water from the kettle and shake up for warming, anti-inflammatory snack.
Vegan
Use maple syrup to sweeten instead of honey.
