Khaberni - There is no doubt that coffee boosts energy and focus thanks to the caffeine it contains, which activates the nervous system and reduces fatigue.
But have you ever tried adding turmeric to your coffee?
Despite limited research on this drink, both ingredients are well studied for their health benefits, according to "Health".
Coffee is rich in antioxidants and can enhance focus and energy levels. Meanwhile, turmeric contains curcumin, a compound with strong anti-inflammatory properties. Combining the two may help alleviate joint pain, boost heart health, and manage weight.
Here are the main benefits of this drink:
1- Reducing inflammation
Curcumin—the active main compound in turmeric—has powerful anti-inflammatory properties.
Inflammation is a natural part of the body's defense against injuries or infections. However, chronic (long-term) inflammation can damage healthy cells, increasing the risk of cancer, heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer's, and other health conditions.
Studies suggest that curcumin may be particularly beneficial for diseases associated with inflammation, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), arthritis, arteriosclerosis, and depression.
2- Fighting pain
Turmeric coffee may help relieve pain caused by inflammation.
Research indicates that turmeric may be as effective as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen in relieving pain and inflammation. Data also show that turmeric can reduce pain and improve the range of motion in people with osteoarthritis of the knee.
Furthermore, curcumin has been proven to help reduce muscle pain after exercise, which may improve recovery and athletic performance.
3- Providing antioxidants
Coffee and turmeric offer a range of antioxidants, which are compounds that neutralize harmful molecules to prevent cell damage and diseases.
A review of studies found that the antioxidants in turmeric—especially curcumin—significantly enhance the body's antioxidant activity and reduce oxidative stress that occurs when there are more free radicals in the body than antioxidants. Over time, this can play a role in aging, chronic inflammations, and cancer.
Similarly, coffee contains antioxidants, such as chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid, which can also help protect against cell damage and oxidative stress.
4- Supporting heart health
Turmeric may enhance the coffee's benefits for heart health.
Research by the American Heart Association (AHA) shows that consuming more turmeric may reduce the risk of dying from heart disease. This may be because curcumin helps prevent plaque buildup in the arteries.
Atherosclerosis occurs when plaques build up and harden, narrowing the arteries over time. This can reduce the flow of oxygen-rich blood, leading to chest pain, discomfort, or even a blockage that may cause a heart attack or stroke.
Curcumin can also improve zinc levels in the body. Some studies have linked zinc deficiency to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.
5- Aiding in weight control
Coffee contains many compounds, including chlorogenic acid and caffeine, which may slightly increase fat burning and weight loss.
Turmeric also appears to have beneficial effects on weight loss. A research review found that taking curcumin supplements helped reduce body weight, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference. However, the weight loss was relatively modest, averaging less than 90 grams.
More research is needed to understand how turmeric affects weight loss, especially when consumed in the amounts typically found in turmeric coffee.
6- Improving digestion
Adding turmeric to your morning coffee may improve digestive health. In one study, curcumin helped alleviate gas and bloating in people suffering from indigestion. Further studies suggest that curcumin may improve gut health and digestion, by increasing beneficial bacteria and reducing harmful bacteria in the intestines.
Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric may also help relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), improving stomach pain and overall quality of life.
7- Mood enhancement
Turmeric coffee may have a positive effect on mood. A recent study found that people who drink 2-3 cups of coffee daily are less likely to suffer from depression and anxiety.
Another research review suggests that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin may help reduce depression. However, research is still in its early stages, and more human studies are needed.
8- Boosting brain functions
Regular coffee is known for its ability to enhance alertness, focus, and energy. Over the long term, research indicates that the caffeine in coffee may help reduce the risk of brain diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Recent research has also shown that curcumin may have similar health effects on the brain. One study found that curcumin could increase levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). This factor plays a role in memory and learning, and low levels are linked to memory impairment and brain diseases.
