Turmeric can help in your quest on how to live longer
Turmeric can help in your quest on how to live longer. Marta Branco - Pexels

The quest on how to live longer has been in existence since time immemorial. Doctors have recommended that people should keep their organs healthy by following a healthy lifestyle. One almost negligible spice may be sitting at the top of the chain of superfoods as it was proven to boost the health of both the brain and the heart.

If you are wondering how to increase your life expectancy, you may have to veer away from your usual cooking routine and start looking at Indian cooking. Yes, they are fond of using turmeric, a spice, which, according to the latest studies, contributes greatly to boosting the heart and brain health.

The secret concealed in turmeric is the compound curcumin. This is the primary ingredient that makes the heart and brain healthy. This is affirmed by the study found in the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, where it revealed that consuming curcumin helps in improving cognitive functions.

The study focused on two types of participants – those who don’t have dementia, as well as those who suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. In the groups who took curcumin, improvements were seen in their attention spans and their memory. Those who did not take the compound showed no significant change in their memory and attention abilities.

The tests that determined the improvements were memory tests. The participants were given 18 months, and those who took curcumin significantly improved by 28%. Their mood also greatly improved.

Aside from the mood and ability to recall, there was also an improvement in the levels of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) hormone. Previous studies have shown that those who suffer from Alzheimer’s and depression exhibited low levels of this hormone. Suffice to say and increase in BDNF also means a reduced risk of both neurologic disorders.

Other than the brain, the heart also benefits from curcumin. Studies have shown that curcumin intake helps in reversing factors that could result in heart disease. Curcumin helps in strengthening the blood vessels lining. It also helps in regulating blood pressure, as well as blood clotting.