What makes a good curry? According to a study published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, it’s the spice called turmeric. This spice contains curcumin, which is essential for increasing a protein that improves your immune system and keeps infection at bay.

It was Professor Adrian Gombart of Oregon State University who found that curcumin caused levels of the protein cathelicidin anti-microbial peptide to almost triple. In the study, he explored just how well curcumin would do against other health boosters like vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids. According to his analysis, curcumin is not as influential as vitamin D. Despite this, however, it is believed to possess anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. Omega-3 acids, on the other hand, don’t seem to have much of an effect on a person’s protein levels compared to curcumin.

At this point, more research needs to be done on the subject. If you’re not used to ordering curry, then perhaps trying it out once or twice a month can help you get started. Consider it a gastronomic adventure where you get to expand your taste buds and improve your immune system at the same time.

(Photo by Dave Lifson via Flickr Creative Commons)