It has long been a staple of Indian and other Asian dishes, but there’s no shortage of ways to add this warm, peppery spice to your diet.
“Including turmeric in sweet and savory dishes is a great way to add the benefits of curcumin to your diet,” Patience says. She suggests including the aromatic spice in smoothies, soups, stews, salad dressings, and marinades. Or steep the turmeric root in hot water and enjoy it as a tea, suggests Arévalo.
Curcumin may be most effective for diabetes when taken long-term in doses higher than what you’d get in your daily diet, says Patience. So, if you’re interested in including turmeric or curcumin in your diabetes care plan, you might consider supplements. It’s essential to discuss your plan with your healthcare provider before you buy them.