Turmeric is a golden herb known for its anti-inflammatory properties and positive effects on health.
One benefit that you may not know is its potential role in reducing fat. Although there are no miraculous herbs that can remove visceral fat – a type of fat accumulated in the abdominal cavity and that can form in arteries – turmeric can support efforts to reduce this stubborn belly fat.
Turmeric contains a powerful plant compound, curcumin, which has been shown to help reduce visceral fat. Research shows that curcumin can help prevent the body from creating new fat cells, especially visceral fat accumulating around organs.
Curcumin can also promote a pathway that causes cells to metabolize into substances other than fat, although this theory has not been proven in humans.
Curcumin can also support fat burning and metabolism. A meta-analysis shows that curcumin supplementation is associated with weight loss, BMI, and waist circumference. It is also associated with increased adiponectin levels, a hormone that helps reduce fat storage.
How to add turmeric to your diet
Turmeric is a versatile spice that can be added to both sweet and savory dishes. Turmeric milk is a pleasant drink with turmeric, warm milk, a little black pepper and a little honey.
Curry, soup, stir-fries, and marinade sauces are also easy ways to increase the consumption of this colorful vegetable. Try mixing vegetables like cauliflower or carrots with olive oil, turmeric, and black pepper right before baking.
