30-06-2025
Spoonful of spice in your milk could kill off cancer cells, experts say
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A traditional Asian beverage is making waves in the West, thanks to its numerous health benefits. Health gurus are lauding 'golden milk', a mixture created by adding a spoonful of turmeric to a glass of milk.
The health-enhancing qualities of golden milk are largely due to curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric. This potent compound has such strong anti-inflammatory effects that some research compares it to pharmaceutical drugs.
In addition to its anti-inflammatory power, as highlighted in this research paper in the medical journal Foods, curcumin also boosts the body's antioxidant capacity. It effectively fights oxidative damage and free radicals, which can speed up ageing and lead to chronic diseases.
Curcumin plays a crucial role in reducing oxidative stress and balancing various bodily functions. It can lower intracellular lipid peroxidation and strengthen the body's antioxidant capabilities, potentially leading to increased longevity.
Research even suggests that curcumin could assist in treating Alzheimer's disease (AD) as it helps protect the hippocampus, the brain region responsible for learning and memory functions.
A study by Brazilian scientists, published in the journal Current Neuropharmacology, concluded: "The administration of curcumin demonstrates to be effective for the treatment of AD. These studies help to elucidate the mechanism of action of curcumin, where they suggest that it partially reverses the neurotoxic and behavioural damages in animals with AD and other cell lines."
Golden milk recipes often include curcumin, cinnamon, and ginger, all renowned for their strong antioxidant properties. Studies have indicated that ginger can boost brain function by improving reaction time and memory, while animal research suggests it may guard against age-related brain function decline.
Both ginger and cinnamon have been associated with reduced blood sugar levels. A scientific study suggested that a small daily intake of ginger could potentially lower haemoglobin A1C levels (a long-term measure of blood sugar control) by up to 10 per cent.
Research also hints that the spices found in golden milk may possess anti-cancer properties. One study, published in the journal Mini-Reviews in Medicinal Chemistry, found that 6-gingerol, a compound abundant in raw ginger, exhibits anti-cancer characteristics.
Another study, carried out by scientists in the US, proposed that curcumin has the ability to kill isolated cancer cells in lab tests. It might also hinder the growth of new blood vessels in tumours, thereby limiting their proliferation, reports Gloucestershire Live.
(Image: Ollo via Getty Images)
Golden milk could also be beneficial for brain health. Research from Iran suggested that curcumin might increase levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a substance that aids in the formation of new brain connections and promotes the growth of brain cells.
There is also some evidence suggesting that curcumin could potentially alleviate symptoms of depression, according to a study published in the Scientific World Journal, although more research is needed.
For those who aren't keen on potent spices, don't worry – this beverage has been compared to chai tea or a chai latte. Its primary function is to provide comfort rather than stimulation, making it an ideal evening drink.
The basic recipe of turmeric and milk can be tailored with various additions to suit your taste and nutritional requirements. Consider enhancing your drink with other spices like nutmeg, which is rich in magnesium, or sweeten it with a splash of maple syrup or honey.
Adding a few twists of black pepper can unlock additional health benefits. This common table spice contains piperine, a natural compound that boosts the absorption of curcumin by 2,000 per cent, as per this report.
(Image: Steve Gschmeissner/Science Photo Library via Getty Images)
There are numerous recipes available online for this naturally sweet beverage. Traditionally, turmeric milk is made with cow's milk, but you can substitute with alternatives such as oat, soy, or almond milk.
Once you've gathered the base ingredients, you can start experimenting to find your perfect blend of golden milk. Here's a simple method to try at home:.
Pour 250ml of your milk of choice into a saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat
Add in 1tsp of ground turmeric, a pinch of black pepper and any other spices and sweeteners you want to add to the mix
Allow to simmer for 10 minutes so the flavours can mix and develop fully
Pour into a cup, allow to cool a little, then enjoy
To transform your warm turmeric milk into a latte, gently whisk it with a hand whisk or a milk frother over low heat to 'froth' the milk once it's in the saucepan. Some people online are even enjoying their drinks chilled, akin to an iced coffee, as there's no proof that serving it over ice lessens any health benefits.
