हिंदी
Golden milk, originating in India, is a traditional beverage made by combining turmeric, hot milk, and spices like pepper, cinnamon, and cardamom. The infusion of turmeric gives it a vibrant yellow to golden color, earning it the name “golden milk” or “haldi doodh.” This drink has a warm, spicy flavor with a mustard-like aroma, featuring earthy and bitter notes.
The nutritional richness of golden milk contributes to several health benefits:
- Reduce Inflammation and Pain: Turmeric, containing the antioxidant Curcumin, is recognized for its anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin inhibits biochemical cycles associated with inflammation, and the presence of vitamin C enhances the anti-inflammatory effects, aiding in joint pain relief from conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
- Enhance Brain Function and Memory: Curcumin’s antioxidant properties in turmeric increase levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), essential for neuronal growth, development, and plasticity. This makes golden milk potentially beneficial in delaying age-related brain disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease.
- Promote Heart Health: Turmeric and curcumin may contribute to maintaining proper heart function. Research on curcumin supplements has shown blood pressure reduction, lowering LDL (bad cholesterol) and total triglycerides, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease by preventing plaque formation and blood vessel blockages.
- Mood Boosters: The curcumin in golden milk has been linked to a positive impact on lowering depression and mood disorders. It regulates neurotransmitters and neuronal disturbances, displaying a protective effect. The anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin may also act as an antidepressant, though it’s important to note that mental health solutions are not one-size-fits-all.
- Improve Digestion: The spices in golden milk, such as black pepper, ginger, cardamom, and cinnamon, have traditional uses for their effects on digestion. Studies indicate that these spices induce salivary production and increase concentrations of amylase enzymes, aiding in digestion. Curcumin and black pepper stimulate the secretion of bile juices, essential for faster digestion, suggesting that golden milk may improve digestion when combined with these traditional spices.
