Dr Amir Khan, the well-known NHS GP and television presenter, has shared his go-to drink for when he's feeling under the weather. During a recent episode of the No Appointment Necessary podcast, co-host Cherry Healey asked Dr Khan about anti-inflammatory foods, specifically turmeric shots.
Turmeric Shots: A Popular Remedy
Dr Khan acknowledged that many families, including his own South Asian household, turn to turmeric when feeling unwell. However, he noted that the scientific evidence supporting turmeric's anti-inflammatory properties is not particularly strong. He said, "The evidence behind it isn't particularly strong, but it's not going to do you any harm." He added that while turmeric shots can give a satisfying kick, long-term data on reducing inflammatory markers is lacking.
Dr Khan's Ginger and Turmeric Shot Recipe
Previously on Instagram, Dr Khan shared his recipe for ginger and turmeric shots. The recipe makes six shots and includes:
- 60g raw ginger
- Juice of a whole lemon
- Three teaspoons of honey
- A whole apple
- A pinch of pepper
- Half a teaspoon of turmeric powder
He warned that those on blood thinners should consult their doctor before consuming large amounts of ginger, as there is a small increased risk of bleeding.
Traditional Haldi-Doodh Recipe
In another Instagram post, Dr Khan shared his mother's recipe for haldi-doodh, a traditional turmeric milk drink. The recipe includes turmeric powder, milk, and cinnamon. He described it as "very comforting" and "delicious," though he emphasized it is based on traditional Ayurvedic medicine rather than evidence-based Western medicine.
Expert Insights on Turmeric
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, turmeric contains curcumin, a compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, high-dose supplements can cause side effects and interact with medications. Adding turmeric to food is considered safest, and black pepper can enhance curcumin absorption. Mary-Eve Brown, an oncology dietitian at Johns Hopkins, noted that turmeric's phytonutrients may help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
