Oct 30, 2019 2:03:18 PM
Written By:
Dr. Matt Hand
Packed with immune-boosting properties, curcumin is the secret weapon every parent needs to help keep their child healthy.* And the good news is you probably already have it in your pantry.
Curcumin, a compound found in the turmeric root, is powdered gold when it comes to the health of you and your child.* Being aware of the amazing benefits that it holds is one thing. Figuring out how to get your kid to eat Curcumin is the other half of the battle.
For centuries, turmeric has been a dietary staple in Indian and South Asian cuisine. The reliance on the yellow powdered root is primarily due to the wealth of nutrients packed inside. Curcumin is the most note-worthy compound, acting as a potent free-radical fighter alongside vitamin C, magnesium, fiber, iron, and potassium.*
Curcumin has been associated with respiratory health.* The presence of magnesium in turmeric also makes it an effective relaxant, aiding in sleep regulation as well as the relaxation of muscles.* Working with the present concentration of potassium, magnesium in turmeric helps promote smooth muscle activity and may help prevent cramps.*
Because turmeric isn’t absorbed well into the body, it is used predominantly in the GI tract as a digestive aid.* It does this by stimulating the gallbladder into releasing bile, which streamlines the digestive process.*
Finally, turmeric strengthens the immune system by stimulating the production of white blood cells.* These cells are essential for a healthy immune system and are especially important in every child’s peak developmental phase.*
Recent studies have revealed that kids are now dealing with the same health challenges that adults are. We’re discovering that children are suffering from ailments we thought they were impervious to, such as metabolic imbalances, occasional discomfort, and poor digestion.*.
The good news is that conditions that respond positively to curcumin in adults will respond similarly to curcumin in children.*
Curcumin is most effectively absorbed in the intestine when combined with the Bioperine found in black pepper. This is easily accessible in capsule and powder forms.
The easiest way to absorb curcumin is to incorporate it into your regular meals. Turmeric can be added in a beneficial amount without overpowering the flavor of the dish. It has a distinctive taste that blends well with soups and stews – be sure to combine it with black pepper or a little bit of fat to get the best absorption out of it. That said, not everyone wants to eat a curry-type dish every day. So, making sure you get correctly-formulated curcumin supplements for optimal absorption is key.
Understandably, young children often have trouble swallowing capsules. Picky eaters will also notice the taste of turmeric in their food – though you can sometimes hide turmeric in flavorful ingredients such as chocolate, cheeses, and strawberry/banana smoothies. There are a few fruit-flavored gummies and vitamins on the market that contain curcumin, but these will often contain added sugars and preservatives and shouldn’t be your go-to option. However, high-quality curcumin supplements are available.
Turmeric has a reputation for over-performing as an immune booster and free-radical fighter. It’s full of vitamins and minerals, as well as curcumin – the principle free-radical fighter. Because of its flavor, the nutrient can easily be added to many recipes to give your child that extra nutritional boost. But for picky eaters, parents shouldn’t look past high-quality supplements. When considering your child’s health, curcumin is an integral dietary addition with unparalleled benefits.*
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Sources:
1 “Phytonutrients as Therapeutic Agents - NCBI.” 2014. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25051278. Accessed October 16, 2019.
2 “Foods That Fight Inflammation - Harvard Health Publishing.” 2018. https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/foods-that-fight-inflammation. Accessed October 16, 2019.
3 “Allergy and the gastrointestinal system - NCBI.” 2008. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2515351/. Accessed October 16, 2019.
4 “Prebiotics and Probiotics: Creating a Healthier You - Eat Right.” 2018. https://www.eatright.org/food/vitamins-and-supplements/nutrient-rich-foods/prebiotics-and-probiotics-creating-a-healthier-you. Accessed October 16, 2019.
5 “What Are Adaptogens, and Should You… - Everyday Health.” 2019. https://www.everydayhealth.com/diet-nutrition/all-about-adaptogens-definition-functions-sources-risks-more/. Accessed October 16, 2019.
6 “Roundup Ready, Bt-Toxin and GMOs… - Global Research.” 2015. https://www.globalresearch.ca/roundup-ready-bt-toxin-and-gmos-a-dangerous-trinity-that-encourages-gluten-intolerance-and-celiac-disease/5455060. Accessed October 16, 2019.
7"Zinc deficiencies a global concern | Oregon State University." https://today.oregonstate.edu/archives/2009/sep/zinc-deficiencies-global-concern. Accessed 28 Oct. 2019.
8“Vitamin D Deficiency in Children - American Bone Health.” 2016. https://americanbonehealth.org/nutrition/vitamin-d-deficiency-in-children/. Accessed October 16, 2019.
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