The body will use no amount of healthy food consumption if they are not taken in the right combination. Yes! Nutrient absorption aka the ability of the body to absorb the nutrients from food increases when you consume foods in the right combinations. According to Ms Swati Bhushan, Chief clinical nutritionist, Hiranandani Hospital, 'Combining right foods improve the bioavailability of certain nutrients making their absorption better. Right combinations can give your metabolism a boost, help shed your extra weight, make you feel energised. On the other hand, incorrect combinations can make you lethargic, can cause bloating and can lead to weight gain. ' Do you know the health benefits of Turmeric: Fighting Cancer, Preventing Diabetes and Other Reasons Why You Should Have This Curcumin-Rich Spice

While there are so many healthy food combinations available, one the combinations that really stands out is of the Turmeric and Black Pepper. As suggested by Ms Swati Bhushan this is one of the best food combinations we have to help our body absorb the wonderful minerals and vitamins that both the foods have to offer. The disease-fighting ability of these antioxidants increases by manifold by combining the two foods

Health benefits of the combination of Turmeric and Black Pepper

Turmeric and Black Pepper are extremely beneficial for your health even when used individually.  Ms Swati Bhushan says that Turmeric and Black Pepper is a remarkable combination to obtain immense health benefits of the two foods. She explains, 'Turmeric has a role to play in improving neurological, metabolic, and cardiovascular and immune system health. The credit goes to a natural compound called 'Curcumin' which imparts a vibrant orange-yellow colour to it. The major concern is that 'Curcumin' has low bioavailability due to which it is not able to act to its full potential. When consumed, only small portion enters the bloodstream for absorption, even though the liver quickly metabolises curcumin. So the simplest way to enhance the bioavailability of Curcumin is adding some Black Pepper which boosts the levels of Curcumin in the blood and improves its absorption.'

How does black pepper increase the bioavailability of Turmeric?

The nutritionist explains that Pepper owes its health properties to major bioactive component namely 'Piperine' which provides it with a pungent flavour. It, therefore, facilitates digestion by stimulating the secretion of hydrochloric acid in the stomach. She says, 'Pepper is not only anti-inflammatory & antibacterial but also has immune boosting properties. If taken in moderation, it can promote heart health, maintain blood pressure, protecting against free radical damage. Together these spices can increase cholesterol elimination from the body, protect the liver from damage caused by toxins, relieve joint pains or stiffness, and manage diabetes, also suppressing the actions which lead to obesity and cancer.'

Indian cuisine has been using this amazing combination since ages in curries. Swati suggests, 'You can add turmeric & black pepper in your tea or get more creative and use it in your ways in a variety of dishes.'

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 10, 2018 01:35 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).