Turmeric is truly a super-food. This spice is often used in Indian and Pakistani cooking, and historically has been known for its anti-inflammatory effects as well as being beneficial for the skin, immune system and digestion. I recently wrote a blog about anti-inflammatory foods for thyroid health that outlined turmeric and ginger as ideal spices to help reduce inflammation in the body. As many people with thyroid disorders have elevated thyroid antibodies (a sign of an inflammatory response in the body) using herbs and spices can help to reduce symptoms and may preventively aid in reducing progression of the disease.
Not only is turmeric great to reduce inflammation, it may also inhibit tumor activity in thyroid cancer AND has been shown to have benefit in autoimmune conditions (like Hashimoto’s)!
Although often thought of as a savory cooking spice, turmeric is fantastic prepared as a “golden turmeric latte”. Naturally caffeine free, this turmeric tea is great in the morning, or as an afternoon treat. If you haven’t seen turmeric latte’s at your local health food store or coffee shop- keep your eyes out as I have seen these popping up on menus everywhere! The beneficial properties of turmeric are best absorbed by the body when the spice is combined with a fat (like coconut oil or olive oil) and a little pepper. Again, may not sound so appetizing in a warm drink- but it is surprisingly delicious.
Healing Turmeric Tea Latte for Hashimoto’s
Servings: 1
1 cup almond or coconut milk
½ tsp turmeric
½ tsp ground cardamom
½ tsp fresh or ground ginger
½ tsp-1tsp maple syrup
½ tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp extra virgin coconut oil
A dash of black pepper
Warm all ingredients in a pot over medium heat on the stove. Once the milk is nice and warm (but not boiling) either whisk briskly in the pot to create a bit of froth, or transfer into a cup and froth with a milk frother or streamer.
Enjoy!
P.S. As turmeric has such wonderful health benefits, it can be a simple attention to almost any savory dish you are preparing. I add turmeric to soups, stews, roasted chicken, sautéed vegetables and sprinkled on top of my sweet potatoes. Try adding a pinch to your food next time you are cooking a savory dish. Start with a very small amount as a pinch won’t change the taste of the dish very much-but be warned it will affect the colour and can cause the food to take on a yellow/orange hue.
How do you incorporate turmeric into your diet? I would love to know your thoughts- leave your comments below!
Dr. Emily