Seasonal Self Care: Try this drink!

Golden Milk is an ayurvedic drink that is both anti-inflammatory, and nutritious, full of antioxidants. Enjoy this warming mix of milk or milk substitutes like almond or cashew, turmeric, and additional spices this season.  It can be sipped before bed and may offset the craving for something sweet! While you can use fresh spices and cook them in a saucepan, here we keep it simple. 
 
Instructions: Heat the milk, add the spices, and stir well!  If you love it, you might create the spice mixture ahead of time.
 
For one serving:

  1. 2 cups of milk: Your preference: dairy, oat, nut, coconut, or a mixture of two to maximize creaminess. (Can add a tablespoon of organic coconut oil for creaminess and absorption of the nutrients).
  2. Spices, adjusted based on your preferences:
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1/4 tsp ground ginger 
  • ½ tsp  cinnamon

Optional: vanilla extract, a dash of black pepper, cardamom, or nutmeg
If you like it sweeter, add a spoonful of agave or maple syrup.
 
Some food science:  Tumeric contains curcumin, the bright yellow pigment which can suppress inflammation when absorbed well.  A dash of pepper can help with absorption.  Since curcumin is fat-soluble, a small amount of coconut oil can apparently increase absorption.