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Spice it up! Turmeric.

Bored of the same old nutrition programme? As you will know, we pride ourselves on innovation, delivering latest science to your screens, as we try and unravel the many mysteries complicating nutrition for youth athletes.

Well, usually we do, but after a chance conversation with nutritionist Abeneaya, we'd like to introduce our readership to the ancient and relatively unknown spice Turmeric. This is awesome, and she has kindly given us a recipe for a latte, so why not spice up your mornings with a unique kick start to the day?

Article by Abeneaya Sherin Mary Arulroy, Nutrition Science Student from Newcastle University.


Turmeric is a golden yellow spice that originated in Southern India. It is one of the most common ingredients used in Indian cuisine, that has been used in ancient medicines through to modern day practice in parts of the world.

The substance that gives Turmeric it’s bright yellow colour is known as Curcumin which is seen to display many interesting properties, there are over TEN health benefits associated with this spice but we've cut it down to our top four for youth athletes.


Our top four properties of Turmeric, which could benefit youth athletes:

  • Anti-inflammatory 
  • Antioxidant
  • Antibacterial and Antiviral 
  • Anti-fungal properties 

In Ancient medicine Turmeric was used as both an antiseptic and a pain killer. Importantly for youth athletes who need to recover quickly, Turmeric has been noted to help speed up and reduce muscle pains, usually felt during the dreaded DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness). Other research suggests the spice may boost cognitive function, but there are significant gaps in current literature as the optimum amount to add to your diet. Researchers are still studying the benefits of Turmeric in order to fully understand its mechanisms and its potential use in modern medicine.

Nevertheless, adding turmeric to your diet has been proven to be beneficial for your overall health. Consume it with black pepper to increase the absorption of the beneficial compound, but remember that everything must always be consumed in moderation (no matter how beneficial it is).

One of the ways you could consume it is in the form of latte.

Recipe:

  1. 1 teaspoon of Turmeric
  2. Milk (of your choice)
  3. Pinch of Cinnamon
  4. Pinch of Ginger Powder (optional)
  5. Pinch of Black Pepper
  6. Honey
  7. Dash of Vanilla

Method: Mix all the dry ingredients and then simply add them to warm milk. Whisk until foamy and enjoy.

 Turmeric Latte

References:

Aggarwal, B., Surh, Y., & Shishodia, S. (2007). The molecular targets and therapeutic uses of curcumin in health and disease (Advances in experimental medicine and biology ; v. 595). New York, NY: Springer.

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