Helps Fight Depression
Many people suffer from depression, especially today, because of various issues. In one controlled six-week trial, participants with depression were grouped randomly. One group had one gram of curcumin, and another group took Prozac, a brand of antidepressant. The third group was given both curcumin and Prozac. Afterward, results showed that participants who took curcumin exhibited improvements similar to those who took Prozac. But the group with the best result was the one that took Prozac and curcumin.
The reduction of BDNF levels and shrinking of the hippocampus can cause depression. The hippocampus is an area in the brain that controls memory and learning. Further, the reduction of BDNF levels is associated with chronic stress. Once the cause of stress disappears, the hippocampus shows cognitive improvements.
Studies show that regular intake of turmeric can boost your BDNF levels, reverse the changes in the hippocampus, and reduce or eliminate the symptoms of depression. Aside from increasing the levels of BDNF, turmeric likewise boosts the brain’s production of dopamine and serotonin. Serotonin improves emotions, metabolism, and digestion. Dopamine also affects emotions, feelings of pleasure and reward, movement, and coordination.
