5 Amazing Benefits: Why You Should Add Turmeric and Black Pepper to Your Diet

Do you cook often with turmeric and black pepper? That’s great! Using these two spices daily can work wonders for your body and mind. From weight loss and detoxifying to mood enhancement — the benefits of this golden spice and black powder are endless.

Turmeric is a staple in kitchens worldwide. Its vibrant yellow-orange color and rich flavor bring life to any dish. Contrary to popular belief, turmeric is not a root but a "rhizome" — a stem that sends out roots. It is quite similar to ginger as they both belong to the same family.

Black pepper is just as essential globally, aiding in weight loss, metabolism balance, blood pressure regulation, and more. But why is it crucial to combine them regularly?

The combination of the two enhances the absorption of the active compounds in turmeric and is considered highly effective in inflammation prevention. Turmeric contains many active ingredients, but they can be hard for the body to absorb. Fortunately, adding a pinch of black pepper improves the absorption of these active components by 20 times, turning turmeric into a potent source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Here are 5 distinct benefits of using black pepper and turmeric together:

1. Weight Loss

Increased consumption of curcumin alongside a balanced diet helps with weight loss since turmeric activates a hormone called adiponectin, which boosts metabolism.

2. Detoxification

The liver's role is to filter toxins and clean the blood. Turmeric with black pepper cleanses liver cells and filters out toxins like heavy metals.

3. Pain Reduction

One of the primary uses of turmeric combined with black pepper is as a powerful anti-inflammatory. Turmeric helps the body produce more antioxidants that protect cells. For joint pain and inflammation, you can take a turmeric and black pepper supplement, and, of course, add these spices to any dish or salad.

4. Digestive Support

Black pepper helps our body absorb vitamins from various foods. It can calm stomach pains and digestion issues like excessive acidity. Combining black pepper with turmeric can tackle harmful stomach bacteria, contributing to a more relaxed digestive system. Additionally, turmeric is known to lower blood pressure and may reduce the risk of artery blockage.

5. Mood Enhancement

Studies show that turmeric improves the levels of healthy gut bacteria. These bacteria help produce chemicals that maintain a healthy brain. Furthermore, research found that people who consume black pepper feel better and are less likely to suffer from depression, as black pepper contributes to serotonin production and other neurotransmitters that prevent depression and enhance happiness.

How to Consume the Spices Properly

Simply add turmeric and black pepper to salads, dishes, and soups. Another way is to make turmeric tea with a pinch of black pepper. Curcumin capsules are available today, but before purchasing, ensure they also contain black pepper to enhance absorption.

(Photo: shutterstock)

Here's a basic recipe for a "Golden Drink" featuring a concentrated amount of both spices:

• 2 cups plant-based milk
• 1 teaspoon curcumin
• Quarter teaspoon black pepper
• Honey and cinnamon (optional)

Mix the ingredients and bring to a boil. Once the drink has cooled, it’s ready to enjoy.

To your health!

Note: This article is for informational purposes only. Before taking any supplement or making dietary changes, consult your doctor.