TURMERIC - A SUPER SPICE THAT MELTS BODY FAT AND DEFEATS INSULIN RESISTANCE
turmeric has proven to be a super food for formidable weight loss. Relieving inflammation is just one of the benefits of this golden beauty. It also reduces insulin resistance and balances blood glucose levels while helping to prevent the spread of fatty tissue - providing a powerful tool in the battle against fat. A staple in Asian cultures for centuries, turmeric is a safe, tasty and nutrient-packed addition to any diet or weight-loss plan.
The colorful warrior against fat
Research at Tufts University in Boston found that curcumin (the active ingredient in turmeric) reduced weight gain and total body fat in mice that consumed the compound.
Eighteen mice divided into three groups were fed either a low-fat, high-fat diet or a high-fat, curcumin-rich diet. At the end of the study were measured the body weight of the mice and the distribution of fat. For those who ingested the curcumin diet, total body fat and weight gain were reduced - despite the fact that food intake was not limited. Blood glucose, cholesterol, fatty acid, triglycerides and fat in the liver were also lower.
Another study in Xi'an Jiaotong University School of Medicine in China also found that the intake of turmeric is beneficial for weight loss. As Anthony Gucciardi of the Natural Society said:
"... The consumption of curcumin (again, a compound in turmeric found in extracts and food itself) directly decreases levels of insulin resistance and resistance to Leptin - two factors strongly linked to fat accumulation.In the conclusion of the research, the study authors said:
"By decreasing fat sediment, relaxing lymphatic return, and avoiding apoptosis of beta cells, curcumin can significantly decrease the level of insulin resistance and leptin resistance caused by the high-fat diet."
Similar findings were observed at the Naomi Berrie Diabetes Center - Columbia University. Dr. Drew Tortoriello, MD, endocrinologist and researcher, found that "obese mice fed turmeric showed a significantly reduced inflammation in adipose tissue and liver compared to controls." He suspects that "the anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant ingredient of turmeric decreases insulin resistance and prevents type 2 diabetes in these mouse models by reducing the inflammatory response caused by obesity," according to Science Daily.
Fortunately, researchers believe that these results can be applied to humans as well.
With such an abundance of health benefits, the only thing you have to lose enjoying this vibrant spice is being overweight.
