Turmeric coffee is a warm beverage made by adding turmeric to a traditional cup of coffee. Research suggests the combination of curcumin (the active ingredient in turmeric) and coffee compounds may protect the heart, aid digestion, support weight management, and more.

1. Acts as an Anti-Inflammatory

Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, may help protect against inflammation. Research suggests that curcumin may help manage inflammation associated with certain conditions, such as:

• Arthritis (joint diseases)
• Irritable bowel disease (IBD) (autoimmune disorder that include Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis)
• Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries due to a gradual buildup of sticky plaque on artery walls)

2. Protects Heart Health

Some studies show that curcumin may help prevent plaque buildup in the arteries, reducing your risk of dying from heart conditions like atherosclerosis. It’s also been found to help lower blood pressure levels.

Moderate coffee consumption is also linked to a lower risk of dying from heart disease, likely due to the anti-inflammatory and protective benefits of caffeine and other compounds found in coffee.

3. Supports Digestion

Some research shows that curcumin may ease digestive symptoms like bloating, gas, and heartburn in people with indigestion. It may also improve symptoms of irritable bowel disease (IBD), such as stomach pain, nausea, and diarrhea.

Other data suggests curcumin helps balance the gut microbiome, improving the digestive process.

4. May Aid Weight Management

The caffeine in regular coffee may support moderate weight loss by boosting the fat-burning process. Adding turmeric to your coffee may extend those benefits even further.

Studies show that taking curcumin in supplement form lowers body weight, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference (a way to measure cardiovascular risk, which is risk to the heart and blood vessel disease). However, the results have been relatively modest, with weight loss averaging less than 2 pounds. Additional research is needed.

5. May Boost Brain Health

Studies have shown that drinking coffee can help you feel more alert, energized, and focused. And this habit could potentially lower the risk of developing neurological conditions like Parkinson’s disease (a degenerative movement disorder) and Alzheimer’s disease (a progressive form of dementia) in the long term.

Initial evidence suggests curcumin may boost brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) protein levels, which supports memory, learning, and brain cell growth.

6. May Improve Mood

Drinking 2 to 3 cups of coffee per day may be linked to a lower risk of developing mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. Initial research also links curcumin to potentially reduced depression and anxiety symptoms.

Curcumin’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may explain these potential benefits, though more research is needed.

7. Maintains Blood Sugar Levels

Turmeric may help lower fasting blood sugar levels, particularly in people with diabetes. Curcumin may prevent blood sugar spikes and help cells absorb sugar more efficiently.

Its anti-inflammatory properties could help lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by protecting the pancreas from inflammation.

What Is in Turmeric Coffee?

Turmeric coffee is based on a traditional Indian drink known as haldi doodh, which has long been used as an at-home remedy. Aside from coffee, turmeric is the main ingredient.

Black pepper is sometimes added to the beverage, which maximizes the absorption of curcumin in the body. Cinnamon, ginger, and sometimes an added sweetener, can also be mixed in.

How to Make Turmeric Coffee and Golden Milk Latte

There are only a few ingredients and steps to make turmeric coffee at home. Combine the following ingredients:

To turn your turmeric coffee into a golden milk latte with coffee, you can make a few minor adjustments:

• Brew a shot of espresso.
• Add the combination of turmeric powder, cinnamon, and black pepper to 1 cup of milk or a nondairy alternative.
• Use a frother (if available) to mix the spiced milk.
• Pour the espresso into a cup and add maple syrup, honey, or a sweetener of your choice.
• Add the frothed milk on top of the espresso.

If you prefer, you can make a golden milk latte without coffee or espresso. In this case, milk or a nondairy, plant-based alternative will be your main beverage base.

Side Effects

Turmeric is typically well-tolerated when added to coffee in moderate doses. However, before trying a turmeric coffee, know there is a potential for some mild side effects, especially if turmeric is used in higher doses. Side effects from turmeric may include:

• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Nausea
• Rash
• Stomach pain
• Teeth staining
• Yellow stool

Also note that most of the available research on turmeric is centered on curcumin supplements. These generally offer a higher concentration of this active ingredient than what would usually be included in turmeric coffee.

Who Should Avoid Turmeric?

Turmeric is generally safe for healthy adults when consumed in quantities typically added to foods and drinks. However, in some situations, you may want to consider avoiding turmeric coffee altogether, including if you:

• Are taking certain medications, like blood thinners or blood sugar-lowering drugs
• Have a turmeric allergy
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Are taking other dietary supplements that may interact with turmeric

Check with a healthcare provider before making dietary changes, including trying beverages with added turmeric.

Other Ways to Take Turmeric

Turmeric is widely available in supplement form. Different formulas and types of turmeric supplements exist, some of which combine it with another compound, like ginger.

Turmeric can also be added to a variety of foods in fresh or powdered form, including:

• Baked goods
• Lentil and rice dishes
• Salad dressings
• Smoothies, juices, or wellness shots
• Soups and stews
• Teas

To help the active ingredient curcumin absorb better in the body, consider either adding a dash of black pepper or pairing it with a healthy fat like milk, olive oil, or avocado.

Summary

Turmeric coffee is a warm drink that combines regular coffee with turmeric. Because the active ingredient in turmeric (curcumin) is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, research suggests the beverage offers potential health benefits such as protecting the heart, improving digestion, and supporting weight management.

Check with a healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your diet, especially if you have an underlying health condition or are currently taking any medications.