Let’s Talk Turmeric
The health world is a tad turmeric obsessed, and for good reason. Here’s what you need to know about this potent golden spice.
What It Is: A member of the ginger family, turmeric is a spice often found in Middle Eastern, Indian, and Southeast Asian cuisine. Turmeric is easily recognized by its bright yellow hue.
What It Does: Curcumin, turmeric’s main active ingredient, has anti-inflammatory effects and powerful antioxidant properties, and the research linking it to the treatment of many Western diseases is compelling. In addition to easing joint pain, turmeric is believed to reduce pain and inflammation related to arthritis. Turmeric intake has been linked to a lower risk of heart disease, and studies have identified its role in preventing cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and diabetes.
How to Use It: The curcumin in turmeric isn’t easily absorbed into the bloodstream on its own. To reap the most benefits from this ingredient, you’ll want to incorporate black pepper when consuming turmeric – the piperine in pepper helps to boost curcumin absorption.
Turmeric is a flavorful addition to soups, curries, roasted vegetables, and marinades. For a healthy drink chock-full of benefits, try golden milk! To make your own, simmer coconut milk, turmeric, ginger, and black pepper on the stovetop. Optional add-ins include cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a sweetener, like honey or maple syrup.
Applying Anti-Aging Creams: How Soon Is Too Soon?
If you’ve ever wondered when to begin an anti-aging skin routine, you’re not alone. It seems that cosmetic companies start pushing serums and creams on women just shy of their teen years, claiming that it’s never too early to reverse your skin’s aging clock! But for younger skin, these products may do more harm than good.
Anti-aging formulas contain intensive moisturizing ingredients meant to combat dry skin, which becomes more common as you age. So when young women, especially those with oily complexions, use these heavy creams, they can actually clog skin and cause breakouts. Also, many anti-aging products consist of harsh ingredients that increase the metabolism of already-active skin in younger women – leading to more breakouts.
To prevent aging skin in your twenties and beyond:
Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen 365 days a year. Lifelong sun exposure is responsible for as much as 90% of visible aging, including wrinkles, brown spots, and sagging. Wearing sunscreen every day is the most important step you can take toward aging prevention.
Find a skin care regimen that matches your skin type. Your routine should always include sunscreen and a moisturizer.
Quit smoking. Smoking accelerates the aging process, resulting in premature wrinkles.
Get your antioxidants. Eat plenty of antioxidant-rich foods, like berries, spinach, and tomatoes.