Remember when Turmeric was a hot topic for inflammation? Then it was Curcumin, the naturally-occurring chemical compound found in the spice turmeric, highly recommended for any swelling.
A few years later, we hear about absorption problems and stomach upset so how can you get the benefits of curcumin and not end up with acid reflux?
Let’s Talk Benefits First
This popular spice of India not only adds a rich flavor to food it is considered a superfood. It helps to fight or reverse several ailments.
- Indigestion
- Relieves arthritis pain
- Treats burns
- Boosts your immunity
- Cancer treatment – fights tumors
- Curcumin is rich in iron and vitamin C.
- Brain health
No wonder Turmeric is considered a superfood with all it’s health benefits.
The Best Way To Use Curcumin Supplements
Whether your eating turmeric or taking a curcumin supplement, it is worth noting that you need to eat fat with it. Vegetable fat isn’t enough. A hearty animal protein or a salad with an olive oil-based dressing is ideal. Also pepper of all things activates the bioavailability of this spice so it can do its job.
Bioavailability means to make it useable by your body. So if you’re eating it make sure you use pepper. If you’re supplementing make sure your product has pepper on the ingredients.
Another thing.
Curcumin or turmeric can inhibit digestive enzymes. I recommend you take your enzymes at the beginning of a meal and your supplement after you have eaten – on a full stomach.
Turmeric Or Curcumin Which Is Best?
Most of my patients and I prefer a formula that includes ginger instead of pepper. Remember the acid reflux I mentioned above? Ginger has a similar action to help our stomach absorb the Turmeric while also being soothing. Pepper often irritates the digestive tract.
What About Turmerones?
Turmerones are valuable compounds found in turmeric essential oil. Turmerones have actions that are similar to curcumin, but they have only recently been the subject of serious scientific and clinical research. So far, studies show that this essential oil can decrease inflammation better than Curcumin alone.
If you’re unhappy with your Turmeric or aren’t taking an anti-inflammatory supplement, may I recommend you look into taking it. Even if you don’t suspect inflammation in your body, the benefits to brain health are remarkable. However let’s be honest. Everyone has some form of inflammation, and the fact it may assist in reducing tumors. Taking Curcumin is a no-brainer.
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