So many of us are always on the go. As a result, more and more people are trying to improve their lifestyle with healthier diet choices, more exercise and added “me” time. Consequently, 45% of Americans made “dramatic changes” to improve their health in 2017. In fact, 55% felt they lived a healthier lifestyle compared to the year before. (1)
The truth is, it can be a challenge to find healthy solutions that fit with busy schedules. So, simple healthy ideas are always welcome. For example, studies have shown that raw manuka honey and turmeric offer many health benefits. Homemade turmeric bombs use a two-ingredient honey bomb recipe that takes a few minutes to prepare. Once frozen, they are ready to enjoy every day. (2, 3)
Here are a few good reasons you should consider whipping up a batch of turmeric bombs.
The Health Benefits Of Turmeric
Turmeric is a source of polyphenol curcumin. Known for its medical properties, it can aid in the management of (3):
- Oxidative and inflammatory conditions
- Metabolic syndrome
- Arthritis
- Anxiety
- Hyperlipidemia
Turmeric has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects when ingested. Therefore, other potential benefits include management of exercise-induced inflammation and muscle soreness. It is also believed to be more effective when ingested with other components to improve its bioavailability. (3)
One tablespoon of turmeric powder contains (4):
- 29 calories
- 0.91 grams (g) of protein
- 0.31 g of fat
- 6.31 g of carbohydrates
- 2.1 g of fiber
- 0.3 g of sugar
- 26% of daily manganese
- 16% of daily iron
- 5% of daily potassium
- 3% of daily vitamin C
Keep in mind that high doses of turmeric can cause stomach upset and act as a blood thinner. Therefore people on blood thinners, who are pregnant, have gallbladder disease or are about to have surgery should avoid turmeric/curcumin. (5)
The Health Benefits Of Raw Manuka Honey
Honey is another natural product recognized for its therapeutic properties. New Zealand’s Manuka honey, however, has specific health benefits not found in all types of honey. (2)
Some New Zealand bees use pollen from the manuka bush. The bush is known for its antibacterial properties thanks to the active ingredient Methylglyoxal (MGO). Studies show MGO can enhance wound healing and tissue regeneration as it positively influences immune response. (2, 6)
Manuka honey is also believed to have antiviral, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. As a result, studies have also found it effective in:
- Wound healing
- Oral health promotion
- Soothing sore throats
- Suppressing coughs
- Prevention of gastric ulcers related to H. Pylori
- Reduction of the bacteria that cause upper respiratory infections for people with cystic fibrosis
- Acne relief (7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14)
Studies on the positive effects of manuka honey are ongoing. However, manuka honey is not suitable for everyone. People with diabetes, honey or bee allergies and infants should avoid honey. (2)
2-Ingredient Raw Manuka Honey and Turmeric Bombs
All those benefits in just two ingredients – can you believe it? All right, here is what you’ve been waiting for:
What You Need
- Baking sheet and parchment paper (or baking mat)
- Small mixing bowl
- 1/3 cup ground turmeric
- 3 tablespoons raw manuka honey
- Optional: If you don’t like honey or cannot eat it, softened coconut oil also works
- Optional: Add Black Pepper to enhance the absorption of turmeric
The Fun Part
- Mix the ingredients in a bowl until the mixture has a peanut-butter-like consistency
- Roll into bite-sized pieces (use a tablespoon to help if desired)
- Place each raw manuka honey and turmeric bomb on the lined baking sheet
- Freeze for at least 2 hours
- Transfer to an airtight, freezer-proof container
Keep these little tidbits stored in the freezer to grab on the run. Enjoy!
To give you an extra boost try adding ginger to your turmeric bomb!
