12/09/2025
What's all the hype around turmeric, you ask? โจ
Turmeric is a root that is often dried and processed into a powder for adding to meals or spice blends, like curry powder. It is rich in a group of plant chemicals (polyphenols) called "curcuminoids". Curcuminoids give turmeric its bright yellow color and provide anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits when consumed.
How can it help?
Research shows a link between regular curcuminoid intake and positive impact on arthritis, brain health, certain types of cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, heart health, and more!
What about turmeric supplements?
Dietary supplements in the US are not FDA regulated in the same way as medications. This means that they do not undergo safety data testing and are highly susceptible to contamination, dosage variation, and mislabeling. There are recent reports of over-supplementation of turmeric leading to poor liver function. A "Food-First" approach is recommended by our registered dietitians for optimal benefit and risk reduction.
Here's a "Food First" approach for including more turmeric in your diet:
๐ธMake turmeric rice to increase the nutrition of this common side-dish! Mix turmeric and black pepper with broth prior to adding dry rice & cook as usual.
๐ธExperiment with easy curry-type dishes that include turmeric and/or curry powders (tikka masala, butter chicken, chana masala).
๐ธAdd to frothed, warmed milk + sweetener of choice for a cozy evening drink option in the cooler months. Check out the recipe below!
๐ธDietary fat and black pepper both increase absorption of turmeric, so recipes should contain all 3 components!