Senior Lecturer and Emergency Medical Consultant , UKM Medical Center , Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia ( UKM ) and President and Founder of Malaysian Sepsis Alliance ( MySepsis )

AND

DR KHAIZURIN TAJUL ARIFIN

Department of Biochemistry , Faculty of Medicine , UKM and Committee member of MySepsis

Oxidative stress , a byproduct of cellular processes , fuels inflammation , aggravating health issues . Antioxidants , the body ’ s defenders , neutralise these harmful molecules , quelling inflammation . They highlight the pivotal link between oxidative stress and inflammation , emphasising the importance of antioxidant-rich diets in maintaining a balanced and resilient system .

But don ’ t worry ! Your kitchen is a surprising source of anti-inflammatory heroes like turmeric , palm oil , garlic , and honey . With powerful compounds and long histories , these ingredients are ready to fight inflammation . Join us on a tasty journey into the world of these kitchen superheroes .

TURMERIC : THE GOLDEN GUARDIAN

In Malaysian culinary tradition , turmeric can be considered the golden VIP , infusing vibrant hues and rich flavours into dishes . Esteemed for its anti-inflammatory benefits , this aromatic spice transcends mere seasoning , becoming an essential ally in taste and wellness . Turmeric owes its superpowers to curcumin , a bioactive compound with formidable anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties ( Jurenka , 2009 ).

Scientific studies have praised turmeric for its potential in managing chronic inflammatory diseases , such as arthritis and inflammatory bowel diseases . So , next time you savour a curry , relish not just the taste but the silent battle against inflammation happening within .

harbours a potent weapon against inflammation – tocotrienols .

These members of the vitamin E family possess anti-inflammatory capabilities . In a world where inflammation is a pervasive foe , palm oil ’ s tocotrienols emerge as an unexpected ally , with potential applications in preventing and managing inflammatory diseases . So , as palm oil takes its place in your kitchen , remember the dual nature of this controversial crusader , both celebrated and scrutinised .

GARLIC : THE AROMATIC AVENGER

No Malaysian culinary collection is complete without garlic , the aromatic avenger that not only adds zest to your dishes but also packs a punch against inflammation . Allicin , the active compound in garlic , possesses antiinflammatory and antioxidant properties that have been the subject of admiration in scientific circles . Studies suggest garlic extracts can mitigate inflammatory markers , offering a tantalising prospect for those seeking a natural remedy for inflammatory conditions .

HONEY : THE SWEET SERENITY

Honey is the sweet serenity that conceals a powerhouse of anti-inflammatory compounds . Beyond its delightful taste , honey

boasts polyphenols and flavonoids that contribute to its anti-inflammatory prowess . Picture honey as a soothing balm for the flames of inflammation .

Research suggests that honey may be particularly effective in managing inflammation associated with wounds and gastrointestinal disorders . So , whether drizzled over your morning toast or stirred into tea , honey silently works its magic , bringing sweet relief to your body ’ s internal skirmishes .

CONCLUSION

In the grand saga of health and wellness in line with Sustainable Development Goal 3 , our culinary crusade against inflammation takes centre stage . Turmeric , palm oil , garlic , and honey – these unassuming kitchen companions – emerge as valiant warriors against the pervasive threat of inflammation . As we revel in the flavours they bring to our tables , let us also appreciate the silent battles they wage within our bodies .

So , dear readers , the next time you take advantage of these kitchen champions , remember that you are not just nourishing your taste buds but also fortifying your body against inflammation .

In the timeless words of Hippocrates , ‘ Let food be thy medicine , and medicine be thy food .’ – The HEALTH

PALM OIL : THE CONTROVERSIAL CRUSADER

Enter palm oil , the enigmatic warrior with a complex reputation . While the debate around its environmental impact rages on , palm oil