Curcumin Capsules & Other Formats

1. Curcumin Capsules & Other Formats There are many curcumin supplements available. Learn what features you should look for to know you're selecting a quality option. 1.The History of Turmeric 2.Curcumin Benefits 3.What About Turmeric? 4.Curcumin Supplement FAQs Curcumin is a powerful antioxidant found in the spice turmeric. It has been used for thousands of years in India, where it's known as "the golden powder." Curcumin has been shown to have many health benefits and while supplements containing curcumin are available at most health food stores, there are several different curcumin supplements including capsules, powders and more! The History of Turmeric Turmeric's use dates back to 4000 years ago in India. There, it was used as a culinary spice and was also included in religious ceremonies. Historians believe that turmeric reached China in 700 AD. The name turmeric derives from the Latin word terra merita (meritorious earth), referring to the colour of ground turmeric, which resembles a mineral pigment. Turmeric is also known as Indian saffron (although its flavour is more akin to ginger) because it is similar to saffron in its main ingredient, curcumin. Fun fact: In Sanskrit, turmeric has 53 different names, from vishagni (the killer of poison) to ratrimanika (as beautiful as moonlight) and jayanti (one that wins over diseases). Curcumin Benefits Curcumin is a powerful antioxidant found in turmeric and has been used for thousands of years to treat various health conditions. Nowadays, curcumin is offered in many supplement options ranging from capsules to topical creams. Curcumin has been shown to help reduce inflammation, support joint health, provide neuroprotective and mood benefits, and support a healthy heart and liver. The antioxidants found in curcumin can also prevent damage from free radicals that occur naturally as we age by neutralizing them before they can cause harm to your body's cells. Curcumin Supplement Options: Capsules and Liquids If you're considering taking curcumin as a supplement, here's what you need to know about choosing the best format. In Canada, Curcumin supplements are available in many options, including capsules and powders.  Capsules: Curcumin capsules are the most common form of curcumin because they are so convenient. They're easy to take and convenient for travelling, as they don't require water or any other liquids to be taken with them.

2. Liquids: Liquid curcumin is also easier to mix with other things, like juice or smoothies, making it easier for people with digestive issues.  Forms of Curcumin Curcumin supplements are available in various forms, including conventional turmeric extract and standardized curcuminoid extract with piperine for enhanced absorption. There are also some patented forms of curcumin supplements available for enhanced absorption, which are made in Canada: Theracurmin is a patented turmeric complex using colloidal dispersion technology for enhanced bioavailability. Meriva 500-SF is a sustained-release capsule that enhances absorption and retention.   Using Piperine to Enhance Absorption There may be a plethora of curcumin supplement options available to you, but we recommend choosing one that is enhanced with piperine. Black pepper extract has been shown to enhance the absorption of curcumin. It works by slowing the metabolic pathways that metabolize substances and is also used to enhance the bioavailability of some conventional drugs. Bioperine is one form of black pepper that has been shown to increase the bioavailability of curcumin by 2000%. Curcumin Capsule Potencies There are different types of curcumin supplements available in Canada, so there's a format that can meet almost anyones needs. Whether you prefer curcumin capsules or liquids, there's a potency that can support your needs. The recommended daily dose is 500 to 1000 mg, but you should choose a curcumin supplement option that states that the turmeric extract has been standardized to 95% curcuminoids. Curcumin Capsule Cautions Curcumin is a safe and effective supplement for many people, but it's not recommended for everyone. Curcumin should not be taken if you have gallstones or bile duct obstructions. Do not take curcumin while pregnant or breastfeeding unless your doctor advises you otherwise. If you are diabetic, check with your health care provider before taking curcumin supplements because they may interfere with blood sugar control medications such as insulin and sulfonylureas (e.g., glyburide).    What About Turmeric? We discussed all the curcumin supplement options, now let's take a look at turmeric. Turmeric is a potent spice to have in your kitchen! When cooking with turmeric, there are a few things to keep in mind to enhance its bioavailability: Fat: Turmeric is a fat-soluble antioxidant, which is best absorbed with a fat source. Therefore, the best way to use turmeric is alongside a source of fat. Black pepper: Piperine, the active ingredient that gives black pepper its "bite," has been shown to improve the bioavailability of turmeric. Add a pinch of black pepper to enhance its flavour and absorption when cooking with turmeric.   In conclusion, there are many options for curcumin supplements in Canada. It is a very powerful compound that is beneficial for many different conditions. When shopping for a curcumin supplement, it is a good idea to visit a good health food store and speak with an educator who can guide you to the right supplement for you.

3. Curcumin Capsule & Supplement FAQs Are curcumin supplements safe? Curcumin supplements are safe and well-tolerated. Why does curcumin have low bioavailability? The bioavailability of curcumin is low because it is poorly absorbed and rapidly metabolized in the digestive tract. How does curcumin work in the body? Curcumin is a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound. When consumed, it can help reduce oxidative stress levels in the body and fight against inflammation. References https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92752/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15202598/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20508869/