The Power of Turmeric

While dealing with the challenges of my multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnosis, I've learned that I can't always control the disease, but I can equip myself with tools that help me manage it. I am not a medical professional, but I navigate my MS journey one day at a time, learning from my experiences. One of my most effective tools is turmeric.

Turmeric is the type of weapon that Mr. Hyde can’t see coming. Here's a brief overview of its benefits; they're remarkable.   

Turmeric, known as the golden spice, possesses a secret weapon within itself – curcumin, which gives it its distinctive yellow color. According to ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, turmeric has been used in traditional Indian medicine for approximately 4,000 years and is a member of the ginger family.

According to Turmeric Benefits, written by Mary–Eve Brown, R.D.N., C.S.O., L.D.N. in Hopkinsmedicine.org, the active ingredient in turmeric is a natural compound (polyphenol) called curcumin, which has both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is the body's natural response to illness, injury, or irritants. However, in patients with MS, inflammation causes the immune system to mistakenly attack myelin, the protective sheaths surrounding nerve fibers, in the central nervous system (i.e., the brain and spinal cord), leading to demyelination and the interruption of nerve impulses. 

       Before taking any herbal supplements, it is essential to consult your doctor. As we know, some herbal supplements, despite their amazing benefits, may interfere with prescribed medications. Mary-Eve Brown, R.D.N., C.S.O., L.D.N.,in Hopkinsmedicine.org, suggests that incorporating turmeric as a spice in your kitchen regularly may be more beneficial than taking any supplements. It is essential to note that combining the spice with black pepper may enhance your body's ability to absorb it. According to Brown, supplements like pills or gummies may have significantly higher concentrations than a person would obtain by incorporating turmeric into their cooking. Supplements also have potential side effects, like gastrointestinal issues and kidney stones.

I would love to share some of my ideas on how to incorporate turmeric into your kitchen and secretly fight Mr. Hyde.

Berries, spinach, and turmeric smoothie.

-      2 cups of frozen or fresh berries,

-      1 cup of spinach,

-      A handful of pumpkin seeds,

-      2 teaspoons of turmeric spice,

-      2 scoops of protein powder

(I use Huel protein powder)

-      1 small bottle of water (16.9oz)

Blend everything in your blender and enjoy 

I also incorporate turmeric into all my dishes, such as my vegetable stir-fry, and mix it with brown rice – it's delicious. Sometimes, I will add tofu or fish to it.

I found this recipe on my favorite yoga app, Asana Rebel. This app not only helps me stay fit and healthy, but it's also a part of my strategy to manage my MS symptoms. Yoga is another one of my secret weapons against Mr. Hyde. I'll share more about my yoga journey in my next article.

Turmeric – Chickpea Curry with Eggplant & Rice

Cooking: 25min 860 kcal per serving

Ingredients for two servings:

-      1 tsp

-      1 pinch black pepper

-      4 tbsp fresh cilantro

-      1 pinch salt

-      31/2 oz chickpeas

-      1 clove garlic

-      1 eggplant

-      1 onion

-      2 tbsp coconut oil

-      1 ¾ cup coconut milk

-      4 ½ oz rice

-      ¼ oz ginger

Preparation:

1.    Cook the rice in boiling water with a pinch of salt until it is soft.

2.    Lightly fry the diced onions and chopped garlic in the oil (I use avocado oil), adding in the turmeric, black pepper, ginger, the diced eggplant, and chickpeas. Sauté briefly, mixing in the coconut milk. Let simmer.

3.    Serve the curry with a bowl of rice, sprinkled with chopped cilantro.

Another idea to incorporate turmeric into your cooking is to season your fish with it and bake it. My suggestion is to add black pepper, garlic, ginger, a pinch of salt, and sprinkle with a little bit of lemon – delicious :)

Additionally, you can also add turmeric to your salad dressing.

       In conclusion, turmeric, my secret weapon against Mr. Hyde, helps me feel better, but always consult with your doctor before adding anything new to your diet and listen to your body.

       I hope you enjoyed this article. I would love to hear your thoughts and ideas. You may have a different secret weapon.

Remember, nothing is impossible :)