How to Make Anti-Inflammatory and Pain Relief Turmeric Ginger Tea

Turmeric and ginger are botanically related to each other and have both been used for centuries as spices in cooking and as medicinal herbs. These herbs are recommended for treating gastrointestinal problems, inflammatory conditions and several other conditions. I’ve written in the past about how inflammation is created in the body and about the damage it causes, and you can read more about it here. Ginger and turmeric are two of the best herbs to relieve joint pain and are mentioned in my article about the best herbs to relieve joint pain.

The strong anti-inflammatory properties of ginger are excellent for dealing with muscle and arthritic pain. Ginger contains powerful anti-inflammatory substances called gingerols. These have been tested in various research of rheumatic diseases such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. The participants in the research reported a gradual reduction of pain, improving agility and movement and reduction in swelling when using ginger regularly. The anti-inflammatory properties of ginger also promote digestion and soothes colic, relieve nausea and intestinal gas, and also as a treatment for colds and other respiratory conditions. I have already written a very detailed post in the past on how to use ginger as a medicine for great health.

Studies have shown that turmeric is more effective at easing pain than aspirin and other similar chemical medications. It is a great help in the relieving of chronic arthritis and joint pain, as well as relieve symptoms of ulcerative colitis and osteoarthritis, which are two other inflammatory conditions. One of the active ingredients in turmeric is called curcumin, and is used in traditional Chinese medicine and Indian Ayurvedic medicine to treat arthritis. It is claimed that turmeric reduces arthritis joint pain, inflammation, and stiffness related to arthritis. Turmeric also has a good effect on the digestive system as well. If you are interested to learn more about the amazing health benefits of turmeric then you can read a previous post about all the reasons to eat more turmeric.

For 1 cup of water use 1 teaspoon each of fresh grated turmeric and ginger roots. If you use ground turmeric and ginger, use 1/3 teaspoon each. Add raw honey to taste, and a slice of lemon if you want.

Anti-Inflammatory Ginger Turmeric Tea Recipe

In order to increase turmeric absorption in the body (studies have revealed that turmeric has low absorption and rapid metabolism that lead to relatively low bioavailability in the body) you need to add a little bit of fat to the tea, such as a teaspoon of coconut oil or flaxseed oil for example. Another option is to add a little bit (1/4-1/2 tsp) of black pepper that contains piperine which aids the absorption of curcumin. You can read more about turmeric absorption in my previous article How to Optimize Turmeric Absorption for Super Boosted Benefits.

Preparation

In a small saucepan, bring water to boil. Add fresh grated turmeric and ginger, reduce heat, and simmer for 10-15 minutes. If using ground turmeric and ginger, boil for 7 minutes. Then strain the tea and add the honey and lemon to taste. Add the coconut oil or black pepper to increase turmeric absorption.

How much and how often

There are no official dosing instructions exist for ginger and turmeric tea. You can drink 1 cup of it on days you feel extra achy.

Side effects

Although these herbs are considered safe and without significant side effects when used appropriately by adults, each may interact with certain prescription medications. For example both may not be safe if you have a bleeding disorder or take blood-thinning drugs. Therefore talk with your doctor before deciding if one or both herbs might be useful for your situation. Also taking these herbs by mouth in medicinal amounts is likely unsafe in pregnant and breastfeeding women.

http://www.healthyandnaturalworld.com/how-to-make-anti-inflammatory-turmeric-ginger-tea/

Top 5 Myths About Gluten

Gluten is a protein composite found in wheat and other grains. Gluten gives elasticity
to dough, helping it rise and keep its shape.

In the past few years there has been a surge in gluten-free diets and products that claim giving up the protein can lead to healthier lifestyles. A New York Times article recently cited Mintel, a market research company, noting "sales of gluten-free products were expected to total $10.5 billion last year…[and] estimates the category will produce more than $15 billion in annual sales in 2016." Even the Girl Scouts have jumped on the proverbial bandwagon, introducing a gluten-free chocolate chip shortbread cookie into their lineup. But is gluten truly bad for you or has it gained a big market based on a bad reputation?

FIU News consulted with Student Health Services Registered Dietitian Christine Tellez to debunk the top 5 myths about gluten.

1. Gluten is bad for everyone.

"Gluten is a mixture of two proteins found in foods like cereal grains and wheat products," says Tellez. "Most people probably don't even know when they are eating gluten since adverse reactions generally only affect people who have celiac disease or those with a gluten sensitivity." A doctor can test you for a gluten intolerance through a blood test.

2. Gluten makes you fat.

"Gluten itself cannot make you fat," she says. "Gluten is naturally found in wheat grains, including barley and rye, even beer and soy sauce. Wheat gluten is also added to imitation meats sometimes to improve the texture of the product." Overeating, an unbalanced diet and lack of exercise are still the leading causes of weight gain. In fact, Tellez says gluten-free pastas and breads may actually have more calories and lower fiber, vitamins and minerals than gluten-containing products. "Gluten-free diets really only benefit you if you have a true gluten intolerance or celiac disease."

3. Not eating gluten will improve your skin.

"Most people probably wouldn't notice a difference," says Tellez. "On average, one in 133 people in the U.S. have celiac disease which present severe symptoms, including recurring abdominal pain and bad acne, when consuming gluten." If you want to improve your skin, she says, eat a balanced diet with high fruit and vegetable intake to ensure your body is getting the full spectrum of vitamins and nutrients.

4. Gluten causes allergies.

"Some celebrities have claimed that gluten free diets have improved autism symptoms or autoimmune disorders, but research doesn't support these claims at all," she says. "Gluten isn't like fat. You can't just assume that less is better."

5. Not eating gluten makes you healthier.

"Not eating gluten can actually be bad for you," says Tellez. "Since gluten is present in many of today's staple foods, cutting it out altogether could mean you miss important nutrients." Tellez advises to consult with your doctor if you think you have a gluten intolerance to determine the best course of action.

http://medicalxpress.com/news/2014-06-myths-gluten.html