Curcumin Health Benefits: Curcumin May Ease Depression
Most people know that chocolate is feel-good food, not just because it tastes heavenly, but because the fat, sugar and other biochemicals produce mood-altering changes in the blood.
Another food that may help fight the blues is tumeric, an ingredient in a mix of spices called curry. Turmeric contains curcumin, an antioxidant compound known to have anti-inflammatory and other health promoting properties.
A recent study in India showed that curcumin may increase levels of serotonin and dopamine, two neurotransmitters known to boost mood, which are targeted by antidepressant drugs. Researchers also found that curcumin used in conjunction with certain antidepressants may have a synergistic effect, increasing its effectiveness.
The Anti-Aging Bottom Line: We’re not suggesting that you treat your depression with curcumin, we do think delicious curry dishes could make a happy addition to your menu if you’re feeling blue or just plain hungry! And if you want to take advantage of some other curcumin health benefits as well, you can take a standardized curcumin supplement.
