Turmeric, Ginger and Lemon Shots | Recipe

We’ve all seen and heard of people taking ginger shots, adding turmeric to their lattes and putting lemon juice on everything. But what are the actual benefits to these brightly coloured foods?

TURMERIC

Curcumin is the main active ingredient in turmeric, and it has been associated with having anti-inflammatory effects as well as being an antioxidant.  Antioxidants are beneficial to the body as they protect the body from free radicals – if we have excessive free radicals this can cause damage to the body and cells inside. Curcumin has also been associated with boosting brain-derived neurotrophic factor, and improving brain function. Although, this study was on rats, not humans, so the effects on humans still needs to be researched!

However, it should be noted that the amount of curcumin in turmeric is very little, so be the effects are debatable.  With this being said, curcumin is fat soluble so consuming with a meal containing fat can aid in absorption, as well as black peppercorn.

GINGER

Ginger has always been the go to spice when illness strikes, and this is due to it being rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds. Ginger is high in Vitamin E, B6, iron and selenium.  Firstly, ginger has been linked to reducing nausea, with studies showing individuals favoured ginger over the placebo.  It also has been said that ginger may reduce muscle soreness and this is due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

LEMON

Lemon is a key source of Calcium, potassium and of course Vitamin C, hence why its related to boosting the immune system. Lemon is great for treating indigestion, as it prevents constipation and aids in bowel functions due to the pectin fibre content. The potassium content helps nourish brain and nerve cells.

Try out my turmeric, ginger and lemon shot:

INGREDIENTS:

• 7oz turmeric root

• 3 – 4 lemons juices (depending how sweet you like it)

• 6oz ginger root

• 1 large sweet apple

• Pinch black pepper

METHOD

1. Add to your go to blender.

2. Blend it until smooth.

3. Pour into a shot glass and enjoy.

4. You may need a glass a water – trust me!

[It should be noted, that while these show benefits, most of these factors that have been studied have shown a potential link, therefore take a pinch of salt when reading as association doesn’t mean there is an ACTUAL relationship.]