Curry is one of the smarter things you can order, apparently. Cleveland Clinic Wellness reports on a small study that suggests that the turmeric in curry can help your brain as well as your body:

Turmeric, one of the main ingredients in curry mixtures, is known to have potent anti-inflammatory properties, and researchers have zeroed in on the compound curcumin as one of the active ingredients. Some research suggests that curcumin shows promise for helping to treat a range of ailments, including rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, and even depression. A small new study suggests that the compound may help mend memory, too. Among a group of 40 older adults with mild memory trouble, half took a curcumin supplement and half took a placebo for 18 months. At the beginning and end of the study, all participants took cognitive tests, and most did brain scans that measure levels of the plaques and tangles that are present in people with Alzheimer’s disease. Those taking curcumin showed improvements in memory, attention, and mood, whereas those taking the placebo did not. And the scans of those taking curcumin indicated lower levels of plaques and tangles.

Again, this was a small study, so more research is necessary. But there’s no doubt about turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties, so if you enjoy curry, put it on your regular menu!