Turmeric

- Turmeric contains curcumin, which has anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties that can help in the management of a range of conditions, including diabetes

- The piperine in black pepper, when mixed with turmeric, makes the curcumin more bioavailable, so put them together in foods. Gentle heating can improve this effect

- Stimulates bile production, which helps detoxify the liver and digest fat

- The high anti-oxidant protection of turmeric helps limit the damage of free radicals and boosts our antioxidant enzymes

- Early research suggests that turmeric has anti- cancer properties, because it may prevent the growth of new blood vessels that feed tumours

Note: curcumin is not easily absorbed on its own. Its benefits are limited as a food unless you improve its bioavailability.