Can Turmeric Support Thyroid Health?

Turmeric is one of the most potent spices, and when it comes to health benefits, nothing can match it. Not only is turmeric one of the most impressive free radical scavengers, it’s also been shown to support brain health, protect cell integrity, and even encourage a balanced mood. New research is showing that turmeric may also play a key role in supporting thyroid health.

Turmeric and Thyroid Health

If you want to be healthy, your thyroid needs to be healthy. It regulates metabolism and keeps hormonal health in check. To say it’s important is an understatement. Unfortunately, everything from plastics to pesticides are disturbing the thyroid’s delicate balance, contributing to the current rise of thyroid disorders. Turmeric, according to a recent study, may be one of the most efficient defenses we can use.

According to the study, individuals who consumed turmeric on a regular basis were less likely to suffer from goiter, a common symptom of iodine deficiency. ^[1] Goiter and iodine deficiency are also two symptoms of hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid is producing insufficient amounts of thyroid hormone. This leads to weight gain, lethargy, and even depression. Can you see now how important thyroid health is for maintaining a sense of wellbeing? While researchers are unsure as to the cause of the correlation, it could be related to turmeric’s antioxidant, nutritive, and soothing qualities.

Turmeric Soothes Your Body

The key to turmeric’s success is that it soothes. ^[2] Turmeric may soothe irritation in blood vessels, skin, and the brain, and researchers believe this—along with its antioxidant potential—is what supports thyroid health. The thyroid, when it’s irritated by endocrine disruptors of any kind, needs to be soothed before it is repaired, and turmeric may do just that.

How to Use Turmeric

The powdered spice is perhaps the most commonly-used turmeric option, typically incorporated into things like curries and soups. It gives a distinct yellow color to foods and adds enormous health benefits with very little bulk. A liquid extract, may provide more benefits as they’re more concentrated and offer a greater punch. They can be added to smoothies, beverages, or consumed straight without any taste issues.

Do you enjoy turmeric? How do you use it? Please let us know how you enjoy this ancient spice in the comments!

References:

1. Jawa A, Jawad A, Riaz SH, et al. Turmeric use is associated with reduced goitrogenesis: Thyroid disorder prevalence in Pakistan (THYPAK) study. Indian J Endocrinol Metab. 2015 May-Jun;19(3):347-50. Doi: 10.4103/2230-8210.152768.
2. Jurenka JS. Anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin, a major constituent of Curcuma longa: a review of preclinical and clinical research. Altern Med Rev. 2009 Jun;14(2):141-53.