Having a Spicy Life: Health Benefits of Eating Curry

You probably heard the saying, “add some spice to your life.” It may not be a bad thing to follow. After all, you can gain a lot of nutrients from spices.

Today, let us talk about the distinct flavor of Indian cuisine. Curry is what gives their cuisine its golden hue and its complex taste. Its composition varies from one area of India to another. But typically, curry contains turmeric, coriander, cumin, fenugreek and chili pepper.

Besides its distinct taste, the numerous curry ingredients offer various health benefits. Next time you are craving curry, you should not deprive yourself of such an exotic treat.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

As mentioned, curry contains turmeric, coriander and chili pepper. These three are famous for their anti-inflammatory properties.

Let us take turmeric, for instance. It contains curcumin, which brings about its unique color. Besides that, curcumin aids our body in fighting inflammation by regulating inflammatory proteins, such as the interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha). Numerous studies conducted on both humans and animals show turmeric and isolated curcumin to alleviate the pain of inflammatory diseases such as arthritis, osteoarthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.

Chili peppers and coriander may not be solely used in Indian cuisine, but South Asian cooks utilize these spices frequently. Both of them also offer anti-inflammatory effects. The former contains capsaicin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory benefits.

People in ancient times used coriander for its anti-inflammatory benefits. You might think that it might be a placebo effect. But experiments conducted on rodents verify that this spice can reduce the symptoms of inflammatory bowel diseases.

Better Heart Health

This health benefit should encourage you to indulge more in Indian cuisine. Curry powder boosts blood flow and improves blood vessel function. Thus, it enhances your heart health.

Fourteen men participated in a small study where they ate 180 grams of a curry meal. Results show an improvement in blood flow in their brachial artery, which provides most blood supply to the arm. Scientists attribute this to curry’s high antioxidant content.

Another study on 100,000 people highlighted the significantly lower triglyceride levels of those who ate curry two to three times a month. Scientists compare these numbers to those who consumed curry less than once a month.

Scientists carried out studies on the effects of curry on lowering blood pressure levels. Although they found favorable results, they need to continue studying this. All in all, they agree that curry has a positive effect on heart health.

Powerful Antioxidants

Earlier, we mentioned that curry has a high antioxidant content. These compounds prevent cell damage caused by reactive molecules called free radicals. Doesn’t this make Indian cuisine even more palatable?

If someone has too many free radicals in their body, it will lead to oxidative stress. This condition will eventually cause heart disease, cancer and mental decline. If you eat foods rich in antioxidants, it will lessen your risk of oxidative stress.

Conclusion

Spices make dishes more flavorful. It also takes us to exotic lands without having to leave the comforts of our home. Best of all, it presents many health benefits.

Why not have curry for dinner tonight? You do not have to labor all day to cook authentic Indian cuisine. You just need to call Karakoram Restaurant. We will bring India to you, one plate at a time.