Best foods for pancreas health

 This article is written by Sparkle Purpose. Follow Sparkle Purpose on Twitter and Pinterest.

How often do you think about the health of your pancreas? It is an extremely important organ. The pancreas located in your abdominal area and it forms part of your digestive and endocrine (hormone) system.

The pancreas makes digestive enzymes, insulin and glucagon. Hormones made by the pancreas basically control the breakdown of food and how the nutrients get absorbed or used by every cell in your body.

9 Healthy foods for a strong pancreas

1. Sweet potatoes

2. Chicken 

3. Broccoli

4. Other green leafy vegetables

5. Whole grains

6. Fruit and vegetables with purple, red or blue skin

7. Garlic

8. Turmeric

9. Dandelion tea

1. Sweet potatoes

Sweet potatoes are a strong addition to a healthy diet because they contain healthy nutrients like beta-carotene, Vitamin C, manganese, fiber and copper (which helps new, healthy cells to grow).

Sweet potatoes (also known as yams) are a common substitute to normal potatoes for people who adopt a healthy diet.

This orange root vegetable is great for healthy digestion, vision, immune system and brain function.

The fiber in sweet potatoes slows the transformation of starch into sugar. This reduces the amount of insulin that the pancreas has to produce.

The fiber also feeds good gut bacteria that help your body to digest food and break it down into usable nutrients. This reduces the workload of the pancreas further because it doesn't have to produce so many digestive enzymes to break down your food - the good bacteria in your gut do that for you.

Sweet potatoes contain special chemicals (carotenoids) that reduce your risk of a range of cancers - including cancer of the pancreas. The carotenoids are what give sweet potatoes their bright orange color. Other plants foods that have the same color (like turmeric on this list and carrots) have the same beneficial chemicals.

2. Chicken 

Chicken is good for your immune system, heart, waistline, eyes, oxygen levels, bones and stress levels. It also has anti-cancer properties.

There is a reason why many bodybuilders, athletes and health nuts choose chicken as one of their primary sources of protein. It is a good source of lean meat when you choose the skinless option. Turkey (skinless) has many of the same health benefits.

It turns out that chicken (along with turkey) is good for your pancreas - as well as your eye health.

High protein and low fat diets are good for the pancreas. Plant based protein is also good for similar reasons.

Our bodies need protein to rebuild old cells; but most protein options in the western diet come with added grease (fried foods), sugar (sauces and marinades), and processed meat (which is just as bad as smoking cigarettes).

Lean proteins give us a whole range of essential nutrients without flooding the body with fats and sugars. This reduces the need for insulin to store it away. Protein also makes us fuller for longer so that we don't overload our digestive system with more and more food.

Chicken gives you the opportunity to get all of the protein that you need without making your pancreas cope with all of the negative ingredients listed above.

3. Broccoli

Broccoli has fiber, protein, calcium, potassium and other important vitamins and minerals.

All of these properties help to fight off cancer in the pancreas by lowering oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is like the wear and tear that happens over time. Unhealthy things like junk food, smoking, alcohol abuse, excessive stress, lack of exercise and pollutants increase oxidative stress and make our bodies more prone to wear and tear.

Anti-oxidants in foods like broccoli help to counteract this wear and tear so that it doesn't damage the body as much. They do this by neutralizing free radicals (the parts of cells that damage other cells).

The minerals in broccoli are easily absorbed and the flavonoids (beneficial plant compounds) promote cellular detoxification. Broccoli should be a regular part of your healthy diet.

These healthy properties, along with the high fiber content and low sugar content - promote pancreas health by reducing damage to the pancreas on a cellular level while protecting healthy pancreas cells. The beneficial effects of fiber on pancreas health (insulin and digestion) have already been discussed.

4. Other green leafy vegetables

Other leafy greens like spinach, kale, asparagus, collard greens, cabbage and lettuce are some of the healthiest foods that you can eat for your overall health. This includes your pancreas.

We've already spoken about the importance of fiber and foods that are low in sugar and fat.

Leafy greens are especially good for the pancreas because these vegetables are rich in antioxidants and folate. This helps to prevent pancreatic cancer by neutralizing damaged cells and protecting healthy cells.

These foods reduce the pain associated with pancreatitis and help to reduce inflammation throughout your entire body.

Inflammation is thought to be the root cause of all non-communicable disease including cancer and diabetes.

Add a handful of greens to every meal or enjoy them as part of a healthy avocado and chicken salad.

5. Whole grains

Whole grains like barley, buckwheat, brown rice and oatmeal are great for your pancreas. They are packed with fiber, important plant compounds and other essential nutrients. They all have impressive health benefits of their own.

Whole grains help to manage weight, control blood sugar and lower blood pressure. This all helps to protect and strengthen the pancreas.

Foods that are rich in fiber and whole grains are a very important part of the diet recommended for people with pancreatitis. Fiber helps to prevents pancreatitis by lowering the risk of painful gallstones.

There is a big difference between whole grains and refined grains. Refined grains tend to spike blood sugar and have the beneficial compounds that were present in the original grains removed. Try to have as little food with refined grains as possible - if at all.

Excess sugar and simple carbs (from refined grains) increases insulin resistance. The pancreas works harder to compensate for this, which may exhaust the ability of the pancreas to make insulin.

Whole grains work in an opposite manner, decreasing the body's need to produce insulin and improving insulin resistance.

6. Fruit and vegetables with purple, red or blue skin

Plant foods with darker skins like blueberries and grapes are some of the healthiest foods that you can eat. They have special plant compounds (phytochemicals) that boost pancreas health and help to prevent pancreatic cancer. 

That's because of the antioxidants called anthocyanins that give plants this purple hue. This links explains how the chemical has been used to treat things like blood vessel problems, chronic venous insufficiency, high blood pressure, diabetic retinopathy, colds, urinary tract infections, heart disease and cancer.

Combine that with the other plant compounds, vitamins, minerals and fiber and you have a real winner for your pancreas. That will help to reduce the amount of unhealthy foods eaten, control blood sugar and increase insulin sensitivity.

7. Garlic

Garlic is high in special plant compounds that have potent medicinal properties. Raw crushed garlic aids digestion and wards off the cough and cold. Garlic boosts your immunity and repairs tissues of various internal organs - including the pancreas.

The active ingredient in garlic (Allicin) inhibits bacteria and fungi, lowers cholesterol and blood pressure, improves cardiovascular health, inhibits cancer growth and protects healthy cells.

The flavonoids, selenium and sulfur composition of garlic also heals the pancreas if it’s inflamed.

8. Turmeric

Turmeric has been used over centuries for its unique anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties. This bright orange or yellow spice contains curcumin - the active ingredient that is responsible for many of its health properties.

Turmeric can decrease the intensity of pancreatic pain which feels like a burning sensation. Turmeric also helps to manage blood sugar by stimulating production of insulin in the pancreas and boosts the immune system.

9. Dandelion tea

The health benefits of dandelion tea deserve more recognition. It is made from the dried dandelion root. This is a great caffeine free alternative to normal coffee or tea.

Drinking a cup of dandelion tea will protect the liver, reduce water weight and soothe an irritated digestive system. Potassium in dandelion tea helps the kidneys to illuminate toxins. These functions make it easier for the pancreas to do its job.

Dandelion root extract induces cell death in melanoma cells while keeping the non-cancerous cells safe. The same was shown in case of human pancreatic cancer cells.

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10 Low calorie drinks for weight loss

We all know that high-calorie food can derail your weight loss plans. Unhealthy beverages can do the same - and so can healthy drinks if they are high in calories. People tend to focus on their food and forget about the beverages that they consume when they are trying to lose weight.

Don't fall prey to this subtle trap. Liquids can increase your caloric intake significantly without reducing your appetite if you're not careful. Give equal importance to the drinks that you drink if you want to succeed at losing weight.

10 Low calorie drinks that help with weight loss

1. Water

Water should be the main item on your beverage list. Get into the habit of drinking this most of the time for the sake of your health - regardless of whether you want to lose weight or not.

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Drinking more water is one of the simplest and most important ways to improve your overall health. It may also benefit your waistline. We often mistake dehydration for hunger. 

Water may help to keep you full in between meals and also increase the number of calories that you burn. A healthy metabolism needs water to flush out toxins and byproducts while transporting blood with precious nutrients and energy to the rest of your body.

Drink water before each meal to reduce calories consumed

Simply drinking a glass of water before your meal will reduce the amount of food or calories that you consume. This study found that drinking 500 ml (18 ounces) of water before each meal resulted in a 44% greater loss in weight after 12 weeks compared to those who didn't.

Cold water increases the amount of calories that you burn while resting

Cold water increases your basal metabolic rate (the amount of calories that you burn without exercise). Your body burns calories when it needs to warm itself up or cool itself down.

This study found that overweight children increased their resting metabolism by 25% when they drank cold water. The effect lasted for about an hour.

500 ml of water increased metabolism by 24% over the course of an hour after ingestion in this study.

2. Coconut water

Coconut water is more than a refreshing drink. It is a great option to replenish your body’s electrolytes after a sweaty exercise session or after a hot day at the beach. Coconut water has more potassium (and fewer calories) than regular sports drinks.

The best part is that it is free from added sugars, sweeteners, colorants, flavor enhancers, preservatives and other unhealthy chemicals that you can expect to find in processed beverages - if you drink 100% natural coconut water.

It is a great hydration option because of the antioxidant and essential mineral content.

There are 45.6 calories per cup of coconut water - so be sure not to drink unlimited amounts if you want to reduce your calorie intake. Save this treat for special occasions like after your workout.

3. Green tea

All the hype that you've heard about the health benefits of green tea is legit.

It contains a rich concentration of flavonoids, polyphenols and antioxidants that protect your body from cellular damage, carcinogens (which are cancer causing substances), free radical damage and general wear and tear.

EGCG, an abundant antioxidant in green tea, is used in most weight loss pills.

This may interest you: 7 unexpected benefits of green tea that you'll kick yourself for not knowing

These ingredients in green tea also help to stop tumor growth by neutralizing free radicals in the body. 

Green tea may also guard against heart disease by relaxing blood vessels, reducing blood pressure and inhibiting the formation of blood clots that trigger heart attacks and strokes.

Green tea also contains fluoride which prevents tooth decay, stops bad breath and strengthens teeth.

The flavonoids in green tea may strengthen bones as well. This reduces the risk of osteoporosis.

4. Soy milk

Soy milk contains soluble fiber, soy protein and other beneficial plant compounds. These compounds lower bad cholesterol levels and triglycerides, which reduce the risk of heart disease.

If you drink soy milk instead of cow's milk, try to buy soy milk fortified with calcium, Vitamin A and Vitamin D. These nutrients are extremely important and most people who follow the typical western diet don't get enough of them.

5. Low sodium tomato juice

Processed tomato products are very rich sources of an antioxidant called lycopene.

This antioxidant has been associated with a reduced risk of lung, stomach, pancreatic and breast cancer. It may also protect the heart and lungs from oxidative damage. This help to ward off heart disease.

The strong antioxidant activity of tomato juice also has a protective effect against UV radiation for the skin.

Choose a tomato juice with as little sodium as possible. Excess sodium intake is linked to high blood pressure, hypertension, heart disease and stroke and kidney disease. Most processed foods are very high in sodium in order to increase their taste and most people who eat a lot of processed foods already consume much more sodium than they need.

6. Cranberry juice

Some research suggests that the same anti-bacterial properties that fight off urinary tract infections in cranberry juice may also protect against periodontal disease (gum disease).

A compound in cranberry juice called NDM inhibits bacteria from sticking to the gums and teeth.

You need to be careful of fruit juices because of their high sugar content - especially if you want to lose weight. This drink serves as a nice treat if you have an overbearing craving for something sweet. Limit your intake one glass (six to eight ounces) of cranberry juice per day.

We recommend making it yourself for the best health benefits, but make sure that the label says 100 percent fruit juice (not juice drink, cocktail or concentrate) if you are going to buy it ready-made. 

7. Coffee

Coffee contains caffeine which acts as a stimulant. This can help with weight loss.

Many weight loss pills have high amounts of caffeine. Pre-workout supplements also generally have high amounts of caffeine because it increases energy levels.

Caffeine may also work as an appetite suppressant. It may therefore reduce energy intake and boost your metabolism (the amount of calories that your body burns throughout the day) to help you lose weight. 

One study investigated the appetite-suppressing effects of caffeine. Those who drank coffee containing 6 milligrams of caffeine per kilogram of body weight consumed significantly fewer calories than those who consumed less or no caffeine. 

Try to get used to having your coffee without milk, cream, sugar or sweeteners. All of these things may increase your calorie count or lead too weight gain - even sweeteners.

8. Maple water

Maple water is very different to maple syrup. It is made from unprocessed tree sap. Maple water is 98% water - and free from the additives and preservatives that can wreak havoc on our health.

It has a slightly sweet taste with a little bit of natural sugar and 15 calories per 8-ounce glass. 

Maple water can boost exercise performance, hydrate the body when it needs it the most, reduce inflammation, and give the body a healthy dose of antioxidants to ward off disease.

Similar to coconut water and cranberry juice, this beverage is healthy for you - but don't overdo it. The small amount of sugar can add up quickly if you drink too much of it. Save this tasty beverage for after your exercise session or for when you crave something sweet to drink.

9. Low sugar protein powder

Whey, casein, pea or hemp protein powder all gives you the same effect: fullness. Protein is an amazing choice if you need to reduce hunger and feel fuller for longer.

It is also super convenient and easy to mix with water so that you have something to make you full before you choose something unhealthy out of hunger.

As a result of the fullness, you will eat fewer calories after a protein shake. This helps with cutting down your calories.

Protein also plays a vital role in your body’s cell functions and your body's ability to replace or rebuild muscle after exercise. A protein shake is a healthy drink to add to your daily routine while getting good nutrients.

There are many protein shakes that are made specifically to help people who want to lose weight.

Protein powder isn’t as low in calories as the other beverages on this list because protein has 7 calories per gram. It is still possible to find a good option under 200 calories per serving. Check the nutrition label and avoid added sugars or other unhealthy ingredients.

I would personally look for an option that is high in protein, low in sugar and has added vitamins and minerals. It would be a bonus if you could find one with fiber as well.

10. Vegetable juices

Getting your recommended daily dose of vegetables can be very difficult. While you still need to eat plenty of raw fruit and vegetables, vegetable juice can help you to get some of their vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and plant compounds on the go.

Vegetable juice increases your intake of these precious nutrients and may even help you to lose weight.

Participant who drank 16 ounces of vegetable juice while following a low-calorie diet lost significantly more weight than those who didn't.

Avoid high-sugar ingredients and stick to low-calorie drinks like celery juice. Carrot juice is one of the healthiest options when it comes to vegetable juice.

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3 Benefits of strength training

If you knew that a particular exercise would benefit your body balance, overall health and help you to lose weight; would you do it? Of course - you would get started right away. This form of training can provide all of these benefits - and much more.

Strength training

Strength training, also called weight training or resistance training, is a physical activity designed to improve overall fitness by exercising a particular muscle on the body. Muscle training involves weight machines, free-weights or using your body weight to do the exercise.

According to Neil Pire, an exercise physiologist and a national director of wellness, the human growth principle is to overload the muscle to get stronger and adapt to training.

It’s also important for people to know that strength training is not about bodybuilders lifting weights and looking big in the gym. Being consistent in training also helps to prevent the loss of lean muscle from Sarcopenia, a term that refers to the loss of muscle mass due to aging.

Strength training is also a vital part of your general fitness and helps people of all ages who have arthritis, obesity, or related heart conditions.

According to the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, the Health and Human Services (HHS) department suggests strength training for adolescents and children.

Children between the ages of 6 and 17 should incorporate strength training for sixty minutes at least three days a week. Adults should aim to do moderate or intense training twice weekly. However, for intermediate trainers, you can train up to four times a week. Even though you are doing a lot of training, you need to rest in between strength workouts.

Strength training helps you to get better during workouts and also get better between the workouts in terms of endurance. It’s paramount that you give yourself rest days in between to allow your body to recover and rebuild. Rest and a proper diet allow your body to rebuild and recover from the rigorous training.

How does strength training help your health?

Apart from the frequent benefits that you see on social media, strength training helps in other ways too. Here are three ways that strength training benefits your body and lifestyle.

1. Strength training makes you fitter and stronger

This one is obvious, but it should not be overlooked. The strength of muscle tissue is important. It makes it easier for you to use your muscles daily. I especially recommend exercise when one is older to slow down the muscle loss process.

Strength training is also referred to as resistance training since it has toning and strengthening aspects involved. The resistant forces help someone to grow if they are consistent in doing the exercises.

Isometric resistance involves contracting muscles against an object that is not moving, such as doing push-ups. Your diet also matters when strength training. You can research the benefits of a vegan diet for strength training.

2. Protects muscle mass and bone health

When you hit 30 years of age, a normal human body starts losing 3 to 5 percent of lean mass for each year that you age.

According to the Bone and Mineral Research Journal published in 2017, the study showed that strength training counteracts this.

The journal showed that 30 minutes of twice-a-week, high impact training improves functional performance, structure, bone density and strength in postmenopausal women who have a low bone mass that negatively affected them.

Additionally, HHS highlights that for everyone, muscle-strengthening activities help to preserve strength, muscle mass and power - which are important for muscle health, joints and bones as we grow older.

3. Strength training helps to keep the weight off

Aerobic activities like running, walking, and cycling are good ways to increase the number of calories that you burn daily.

On the other side, strength training also helps - but does not burn lots of calories during the workout.

Experts in sports and exercise training say that strength training helps to increase the metabolism rate for your body during the day when you are not doing any exercises.

Conclusion

Good resistance exercises help to increase post-exercise oxygen consumption. Post-exercise oxygen consumption refers to the calories that your body will continue to burn after a rigorous exercise - whether through strength training or aerobics.

This article is written by Sparkle Purpose. Follow Sparkle Purpose on Twitter and Pinterest.

We're about to get real cold, real quick - and your body will thank you for it. Bathing in cold water will benefit your mind, body and wallet.

7 Health benefits of bathing with cold water

1. Increases energy and mental alertness 

2. Improves mood 

3. Shinier hair and healthy skin 

4. Boosts your immune system 

5. Increases metabolism and helps with weight loss

6. Fights depression and anxiety

7. Relieves muscle soreness

1. Bathing with cold water increases your energy and mental alertness 

Who doesn't get the shock of their life when a stream of ice-cold water sprays on their face and body?

This shock is actually very natural. It creates an influx of adrenaline and noradrenaline. These hormones increase energy levels dramatically - and the effect lasts for hours. Some even say that cold showers are better at waking you up than a cup of coffee in the morning!

Celebrities like Katherine Hepburn and Miranda Kerr are major advocates of the practice. They use it to reap the benefits of increased physical and mental energy.

The cold water alerts your brain, accelerates your heart rate, increases your oxygen intake and boosts your energy within seconds. The effects of this can last well into your day and accumulate into better overall energy levels over time.

2. Bathing with cold water improves your mood 

You might be skeptical about the idea that cold showers have a relaxing effect.

This study found out that exposure to cold water increases glutathione and improves levels of uric acid. The study also found that these levels changed over time and that regular exposure actually 'hardened' the body and improved its ability to cope with any type of stress - all thanks to regular cold exposure.

Glutathione has a range of health benefits from reducing oxidative stress, improving psoriasis, reducing cell damage in the liver, improving insulin resistance and improving artery health to reducing Parkinson's, decreasing autoimmune disease, lowering oxidative stress in children with autism, slowing the impact of diabetes and reducing respiratory disease symptoms.

Ironically, cold exposure reduces stress as your body fights to cope with the sudden drop in external temperature. It is similar to the high that you get after a good workout.

3. Bathing in cold water gives you shinier hair and beautiful skin 

The cold temperature of the water tightens the pores on your skin and scalp. This helps to prevent the loss of the natural oils which are needed to moisturize your skin and hair.

Sealed pores also prevent dirt from getting into your skin. Increased natural oil retention, decreased dirt absorption and the antioxidant activity (prevention of cell damage) of glutathione discussed above all contribute to glowing and healthy skin. 

Your hair will become more luxurious, shinier and thicker - even if you process it through excess heat, styling products and dyes. This is in direct contrast to warm water which strips away the natural oils while you wash it.

4. Bathing in cold water boosts your immune system 

Your body's natural defense system gets stronger when you bathe in cold water regularly. Your immune system defends your body against germs like bacteria, viruses, fungi and mold that make you sick.

Cold water stimulates immune cell production (see the studies). This has a cumulative effect - the more often you expose your body to the cold, the stronger your immune system becomes. 

This happens when your body warms up during and after being exposed to cold water. Your metabolism increases during cold exposure in order to create heat. This activates your immune system and releases more white blood cells.

5. Bathing in cold water helps with weight loss

Should you sweat to help with weight loss? You should, but another great way to lose weight is through cold water exposure.

The human body has two types of fat. That is, white fat and brown fat. 

White fat stores calories to be used as food. It is the stubborn fat that you want to lose from your waist, lower back, neck and thighs. 

Brown fat (or brown adipose tissue) is used to generate heat. It is the kind of fat that you want to keep on your body. It helps your body to maintain its warm and fuzzy temperature.

Brown fat decreases as we grow up. White fat tends to increase.

Brown fat can be activated and regenerated. The more brown fat you have, the better your body can warm itself up whenever you get cold - and the greater the amount of calories you can burn when you get cold. You can literally train yourself to burn more and more calories by bathing in cold showers regularly.

Your body will only convert white fat into brown fat when it needs to adapt to cold temperature. This is one of the reasons why cold water exposure gets easier over time if you do it regularly - you have more calories to turn into heat each time.

Remember to do everything in moderation. You can't expect to sit under a cold shower until you've lost a pound. It doesn't work that way. If your body isn't accustomed to warming itself up in the cold, your temperature will drop too low and this can lead to hypothermia. This can lead to many health risks, including death.

Start off small and give your body time to adjust.

6. Bathing with cold water fights depression and anxiety

Over 264 million people of all ages suffer from depression all around the world.

This may interest you: 15 tips to relieve stress and anxiety

Cold showers may help with debilitating moods and depression. 

Exposure to cold activates the sympathetic nervous system. Cold exposure is being investigated as a clinical treatment for depression for two main reasons. Firstly, it is believed that depression is caused by the fact that we aren't exposed to the same stressors that we were exposed to regularly before the convenience of technology (heat exposure, cold exposure, exercise, etc.) Secondly, lack of thermal exercise (training the body through heat and cold exposure) may cause inadequate functioning of the brain.

A cold shower sends an overwhelming amount of electrical impulses to the brain from peripheral nerve endings present in the skin. This has an antidepressant effect. 

Bathing in cold water stimulates your blue spot. This is the part of your brain that produces noradrenaline or norepinephrine. These chemicals produce the opposite effect of depression.

7. Bathing in cold water relieves muscle soreness

Athletes are known to dip into ice baths after training and sports events to help alleviate muscle soreness.

366 volunteers underwent resistance training, cycling or running. The volunteers were then asked to soak in ice-cold baths afterward. Cold baths were found to be effective at relieving sore muscles.

Chris Bleakley, the lead author of the study, warned of the potential harmful effects of immersing yourself in icy water. He said that it could induce a degree of shock to the body. People need to be careful that they aren't doing anything that might cause harm.

Never do more than what your body can handle. Rather do too little and build yourself up over time. This is meant to help you - not add more stress onto your body than what you can handle.

Are you ready to try a cold shower based on the benefits we've discussed today? Hold on before you do.

Don't jump into the shower just yet. I need to tell you about the safety precautions that you must take before you bathe in icy water.

Firstly, don't try this if you are sick, have recently been admitted to the hospital or if you have heart disease. Your body is already under stress and adding more stress to your body might do more harm than good.

Set the temperature between 54 degrees and 60 degrees Fahrenheit for your first attempt. Don't go overboard because you might suffer from frostbite or hypothermia. Settle within your personal comfort zone. Turn the temperature up a notch if you know that it's too cold for you.

Your first few showers should last 5 to 8 minutes. Don't exceed 9 minutes. You can increase this over time as your body adapts and you feel more comfortable. Your body can only handle so much at any single time. Give yourself time to reap the benefits instead of risking harm by doing too much, too soon.

If a 5-minute bath or shower is not enough, you may indulge yourself in a warm or lukewarm shower to finish your bathing routine - or bathe in warm water first and end it all with a splash of cold water.

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8 Unexpected benefits of drinking turmeric milk

This article is written by Sparkle Purpose. Follow Sparkle Purpose on Twitter and Pinterest.

Health benefits of turmeric milk

1. Turmeric milk can help to prevent cancer

Turmeric kills cancer cells and prevents them from proliferating.

Turmeric milk works as a furious combatant against cancer. Turmeric acts as an antioxidant. It reduces the oxidative stress that helps free radicals (cell damage) flourish throughout your body. This strengthens cancer development. Studies have linked the turmeric found in the beverage to lowering your risk of various cancers.

Turmeric milk also contains the chemical curcumin, which is known to kill cancer cells and prevent the growth of blood vessels in tumors. Keep in mind that this research is compelling; but it’s also limited.

While our chances of getting cancer in life are never fully eliminated, the evidence for turmeric milk lowering the odds seems very optimistic. 

2. Turmeric milk boosts your immune system 

If you are vulnerable to the common cold, turmeric milk might be great for you. Golden milk can have great benefits if you're suffering from a cold or sickness. Curcumin (an active ingredient in turmeric) contains plenty of antibacterial, anti-fungal and antiviral properties that fight against illness.

Curcumin tackles dangerous cells and foreign agents, preventing them from infecting your body. If you’re stuck at home with an awful cough and stuffy nose, try some turmeric milk as a healthy remedy.

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3. Turmeric milk helps to prevent heart disease

Did you know that drinking turmeric milk every day can help to reduce your risk of heart issues?

Ingredients such as turmeric, ginger and cinnamon all have links to lowering the chances of heart disease.

In one particular study, 41 patients with type 2 diabetes were given 2 grams of ginger daily. After 12 weeks their risk factors were 23-28% lower than before. 

Keeping consistent with our curcumin theme, the chemical may improve your blood vessel lining. People undergoing heart surgery are normally given curcumin. During your hospital stay, you are 65% less likely to suffer a heart attack if you consume the chemical.

4. Turmeric may lower your blood sugar levels

Some research has shown that golden milk ingredients - particularly cinnamon and ginger - help to lower blood sugar. While more compelling evidence is necessary for a conclusion, one study states that 1-6 grams of cinnamon per day for 40 days lowered blood sugar by 24% and lowered cholesterol by 18%. 

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Turmeric may also reduce insulin resistance. Cinnamon reduces the glucose level absorbed in your gut after eating. Adding ginger to your diet helps lower your blood sugar by about 12%.

While it may have these benefits, you need to make sure that your golden milk is unsweetened. Certain brands contain honey and maple syrup. For the best chances of lowering blood sugar, stay away from those ingredients.

5. Turmeric milk detoxifies your liver  

If you suffer from an unhealthy liver, turmeric milk might be able to improve your condition. It is important for your liver to cleanse itself regularly. Drinking golden milk will cleanse the liver of toxins. It prevents toxins from damaging the liver.

Turmeric milk will also help to prevent fatty acids and other harmful chemicals from building up in your liver. This purifies your body and enables you to process food better without building up the toxins that are left behind.

6. Turmeric milk has powerful anti-inflammatory properties

Golden milk can reduce inflammation in the body. Reducing inflammation can reduce your chances of developing arthritis, pancreatitis and bowel disease. Inflammation also plays a major role in heart disease, Alzheimer's and cancer.

If you make turmeric milk a regular part of your diet, you will most likely see a reduction in overall inflammation.

Studies have shown that consuming about 500 mg of curcumin (three times daily) has the same effect as 50 mg (twice daily) of regular arthritis medication. Turmeric milk has a better effect on osteoarthritis patients than placebo medication given out by doctors. Golden milk works by blocking certain enzymes that allow inflammation to take place.

7. Turmeric milk improves your mood 

Is there anything that curcumin can’t do at this point?

Do you feel depressed? Curcumin can most likely help you with that. While the jury is still technically out, research points towards golden milk improving your overall mood. 

During a study on 60 participants with depression, curcumin reduced depressive symptoms with the same effects as regular antidepressants. Other research links depression with inflammation. 

The curcumin goes to work fighting free radicals, preventing inflammation and reducing oxidative stress. More research needs to be done, but if you’re experiencing mental health issues, drinking a glass of golden milk won’t hurt.

8. Turmeric milk improves your memory 

Things don’t just stop at the mood-enhancing benefits of turmeric milk. Turmeric has plenty of other healthy effects on brain function. While current research is still uncertain, there is reason to believe that the ingredients of golden milk improve your memory and state of alertness. 

Curcumin can increase your levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). 50 mg/kg increased BDNF by 78% while 100 mg/kg increase BDNF levels by 95% in this study.

This helps your brain connect and grow new brain cells. If you are suffering from low BDNF, you may be vulnerable to memory loss.

The cinnamon in turmeric milk fights against the buildup of tau protein. This protein is crucial for the development of Alzheimer's disease. Considering that an estimated 5.8 million Americans are living with this horrible condition, a drink that fights against it is exciting news.

Ginger also improves brain function and enhances memory.

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