Turmeric, a vibrant yellow spice with a rich history, has been revered for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine for its potent healing properties. It ha been a part of South Asian household remedies for a long time, whether is it for open wounds or drinking golden milk to soothe cold and cough. Beyond its culinary applications, turmeric has gained significant attention for its potential to promote physical and mental well-being.

According to research, the key to turmeric's mood-enhancing effects lies in a compound called curcumin. This potent antioxidant has been extensively studied for its anti-inflammatory properties.

How Does Turmeric Affect Your Mental Health?

In a study done by Pharmaceutics 2023, curcumin has been shown to increase levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein essential for brain health and neurogenesis. Low levels of BDNF are associated with depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.

A growing body of research has highlighted the strong association between BDNF and major depressive disorder (MDD). Studies have shown that individuals with MDD often exhibit decreased levels of BDNF in specific brain regions. This reduction in BDNF levels is believed to contribute to the development and persistence of depressive symptoms.

Several studies have demonstrated the potential of curcumin in treating major depressive disorder (MDD). Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a debilitating mental health condition that affects millions worldwide. While traditional treatments, such as antidepressants and psychotherapy, are available, they often fall short of providing complete relief for many individuals. This has spurred the search for alternative therapeutic approaches that target the underlying mechanisms of depression.

The study done by CNS Drugs showed that turmeric may work by reducing inflammation in the brain and modulating neurotransmitter levels, such as serotonin and dopamine, which are responsible for regulating mood.

4 Ways You Can Consume Turmeric Safely

While turmeric offers numerous health benefits, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant dietary changes or starting any new supplement regimen. Here are some ways you can consume turmeric regularly:

Golden Milk

This soothing beverage combines turmeric, milk, honey, and spices like cinnamon and cardamom. It can be enjoyed hot or cold. The warming spices and soothing milk can help relax the body and mind, while the curcumin provides a boost to mental well-being.

Turmeric Tea

Steep turmeric powder in hot water with a squeeze of lemon and a drizzle of honey for a refreshing and healthy drink. The combination of turmeric and lemon can help enhance the absorption of curcumin, while the honey adds sweetness and soothing properties.

Spice Blends

Add turmeric to your favorite spice blends, such as curry powder or garam masala. This is a convenient way to incorporate turmeric into your meals without having to measure it out each time.

Cooking with Turmeric

Use turmeric to flavor rice, soups, stews, and roasted vegetables. Turmeric can add a subtle warmth and depth of flavor to your dishes, while also providing a range of health benefits.

One of the major point of conversations right now is longevity. People are learning day by day about what may affect their biological age and how, why and which way they can lower it. Many studies have pointed out that things like sugar, and some drinks may lower it, however, a new study shows that there may be some unexpected heroes among our daily drink consumption.

A study recently published in the British Journal of Nutrition showed something interesting: drinking about seven to eight cups of tea, coffee, and plain water every day might help you live longer.

Researchers looked at the drinking habits of over 182,000 people and found that hitting this total number of drinks, when balanced well, offered the best protection. It lowered the risk of dying from all kinds of serious problems, including cancer and heart disease. The main finding is that the mix of drinks is key—it's not good to overdo it, as too much might actually be bad for your heart.

How Do Tea, Coffee Or Water Help Your Health?

The research figured out the best possible way to combine these drinks to get the most health benefit:

Optimal Daily Total

The number one rule is to drink a total of seven to eight beverages every day. This total includes your water, coffee, and tea.

Coffee and Tea Ratio

Once you're hitting that daily goal, the best way to mix the coffee and tea is in a 2:3 ratio. This means for every two cups of coffee, you should have three cups of tea. This specific blend was found to be the most powerful for protecting you against dying from heart problems, cancer, and diseases of the lungs and stomach.

Hydration

The experts stress that the most important thing is to just stay hydrated first. Get your total number of drinks up to seven or eight. After you've done that, then you can start swapping some of your water for the healthier mix of coffee and tea.

How Much Tea Or Coffee Should You Drink?

The study also came with important warnings about drinking too much or too little of the mix:

If You Drink Very Little: If you currently have less than four total drinks a day, just adding a cup of coffee or tea won't help much. You need to focus on drinking more water first to reach the main goal of being fully hydrated.

If You Drink Too Much: If you are drinking nine or more cups of fluid a day, replacing water with more tea or coffee could actually raise your risk of dying from heart disease. More is not always better! Finally, the scientists noted two important things:

They can only say there's a link (an observation) between the drinks and living longer; they can't say for sure that the drinks are the direct cause of longer life. The study didn't know how people prepared their drinks—whether they added a lot of sugar or milk, which could affect the health benefits. The main takeaway is to focus on getting your overall daily fluid intake to seven to eight drinks and then use the beneficial mix of coffee and tea wisely.

Pregnancy is a unique and exciting journey, full of changes, decisions, and the constant desire to give your baby the best start in life. Nutrition becomes particularly important during this time, as what a mother eats can impact both her own health and the development of her baby. One ingredient that has been gaining popularity among expectant mothers is chia seeds.

Though tiny, these seeds are packed with nutrients and can be a versatile addition to a pregnancy diet. To understand their benefits, we spoke with Dr. Deepa, Senior Consultant at Yashoda Super Speciality Hospital Kaushambi, who shared how chia seeds can support maternal and fetal health.

Benefits of Chia Seeds for Pregnant Women

Chia seeds are simple to incorporate into daily meals as you can sprinkle them on oatmeal, mix them into yogurt, blend them into smoothies, or even add them to baked goods.

Their mild taste and texture make them easy to enjoy, which is one reason why many pregnant women are turning to these seeds. According to Dr. Deepa, there are several ways chia seeds can help during pregnancy:

Supports Digestion

Constipation and other digestive issues are common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and slower digestion. Chia seeds are high in soluble fibre, which can help regulate bowel movements. When soaked in liquid, they expand into a gel-like texture that aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness. This not only helps prevent overeating but also supports healthy weight gain, which is important for both mother and baby.

Helps Maintain Blood Sugar Levels

Fluctuating blood sugar levels can be a concern for expectant mothers, sometimes leading to gestational diabetes. The fibre in chia seeds slows sugar absorption into the bloodstream, helping to maintain stable blood sugar and energy levels. By including chia seeds in meals, pregnant women may reduce the risk of sudden sugar spikes and maintain steadier energy throughout the day.

Aids Hydration

Hydration is essential during pregnancy, and chia seeds can play a supportive role. Dr. Deepa points out that chia seeds are versatile and can be added to a wide variety of dishes, from smoothies and salads to yogurt or baked recipes. When mixed with water or other liquids, they absorb moisture, helping to keep the body hydrated and supporting overall wellness.

Nutritional Power for Mother and Baby

Although small, chia seeds are a nutritional powerhouse. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, protein, calcium, and antioxidants. These nutrients support brain development in the fetus, improve digestion, help maintain healthy blood sugar levels, and contribute to overall maternal health.

Dr. Deepa recommends consuming chia seeds in moderation. Eating too many may cause digestive discomfort due to their high fibre content. A typical portion is about one to two tablespoons per day. She also emphasizes that pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider before making significant dietary changes, especially if they have pre-existing medical conditions.

Including chia seeds as part of a balanced, varied diet can help pregnant women feel nourished, support digestion and hydration, and provide essential nutrients for their growing baby. With their versatility and health benefits, chia seeds are a convenient and powerful addition to a pregnancy-friendly diet.

Former Hollyoaks star Gemma Atkinson's six-year-old daughter is undergoing treatment for epilepsy. Gemma revealed that Mia, her daughter's condition was discovered after she began to experience absence seizures and episodes of lost awareness.

Gemma spoke about Mia's health journey on her podcast Just As Well, the Women's Health Podcast. She explained how the diagnosis has shaped her family’s lifestyle and highlighted the critical role diet can play in managing epilepsy.

What Are Absence Seizures?

As per CDC, epilepsy is a neurological condition that affects the brain and causes recurrent seizures. These seizures can take many forms, from convulsions to subtle lapses in awareness. In Mia’s case, she suffers from absence seizures. These episodes typically last a few seconds, during which the child appears to be staring blankly or “switching off.” While they may seem mild, repeated episodes can disrupt learning, daily activities, and overall quality of life.

Although epilepsy cannot be cured, treatments ranging from medication to lifestyle interventions can help control seizures. For Mia, medical professionals suggested that diet could play a significant role in supporting brain health.

Can Diet Help Your Brain?

Gemma also shared that the doctors have recommended ketogenic diet or the keto diet for Mia. This means Mia can have food high in fats, moderate in protein, and low in carbohydrates.

The diet was first introduced in the 1920s, was originally developed as a treatment for epilepsy before the advent of modern medications. Research shows that it can help rewire brain function and reduce seizure activity, particularly in children who do not respond well to standard treatments.

“The doctor told me, ‘If you can get her on a keto diet, it could help with brain function,’” Gemma explained. “The improvement we’ve had has been amazing. For the last six months, she’s had no seizures at all, touch wood.”

Mia now starts her day with an omelet for breakfast and Gemma also adds extra nutrients like collagen to her yogurt. While the diet requires careful planning and strict adherence, it has brought encouraging results, with both the family and Mia’s school reporting a significant reduction in symptoms.

Despite the positive progress, Gemma emphasized that Mia’s condition requires ongoing monitoring. Epilepsy management often involves regular check-ups, symptom tracking, and dietary adjustments. “We’re constantly monitoring her, but the last year has been such a positive turnaround,” she said.

Experts caution that while the keto diet can be beneficial, it must be followed under medical supervision to avoid nutritional imbalances. Gemma’s proactive approach, researching the condition and working closely with healthcare professionals, has given Mia a strong foundation for managing her epilepsy.

Epilepsy Awareness

Gemma is bringing public's attention to epilepsy, a condition that is often misunderstood or overlooked. bsence seizures, in particular, may go unnoticed by parents or teachers, as they can resemble daydreaming. Raising awareness can help families recognize the signs early and seek timely medical advice.

Epilepsy affects millions worldwide, and while it cannot yet be cured, advancements in diet-based therapy, medication, and supportive care continue to improve outcomes.