As you age, your cells reduce their capacity to regenerate, and eventually the cells die. This is linked to the telomeres that cap the ends of your chromosomes and protect them from damage, according to a 2021 article in Biomedicine and Pharmacology. When cells divide, the telomeres shorten over time. Oxidative stress can speed up the rate of telomere shortening. Your diet can affect the shortening of the telomeres, and a healthy diet and exercise can slow the rate of cellular death and lengthen your lifespan.
Polyphenolic compounds like curcumin in turmeric protect your cells by reducing the oxidative stress associated with cellular aging. Curcumin has been shown to help with cardiovascular, neurological, and metabolic health, and it has 10 times the antioxidant power of vitamin E. It also sustains the Nrf2 protein, which activates your antioxidant enzymes. Cancer cells can also be suppressed when treated with curcumin.
Your immune system also weakens as you get older, so you’re more prone to infections and inflammation. The curcumin in turmeric can reduce inflammation and protect you against diseases like diabetes, osteoporosis, and Alzheimer’s.