Turmeric
Turmeric, a deep-yellow spice, is a major ingredient in curry powder. It offers a lot of benefits for the brain. The active ingredient in this spice, curcumin, can cross the blood-brain barrier. This means it can enter directly into the brain and affect the cells there. It is an effective anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant compound that has the following brain benefits:
- May benefit memory: Curcumin may help boost memory in people with Alzheimer’s. It is also effective in removing amyloid plaques that are an indicator of the disease.
- Promotes growth of new brain cells: Curcumin helps improve brain-derived neurotrophic factor, a type of growth hormone that facilitates growth of brain cells. Studies show that it may also help delay mental decline caused by aging.
- Eases depression: Studies show that taking curcumin regularly helps increase the dopamine and serotonin level, which help boost mood. Studies also show that people who take curcumin regularly are less likely to feel anxiety or depression.
It is important to note that many studies on the effects of curcumin on the brain used highly concentrated curcumin supplements. This is because turmeric only contains about 3-6% curcumin. Adding turmeric to you food is a great idea, but you may have to use curcumin supplements as directed by your doctor.