Curcumin Phytosome, Thorne, 1000mg, 120 Caps

Benefits

• Traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to support healthy joint function
• May help relieve joint stiffness and minor aches
• Traditionally used to support digestive health
• Provides antioxidant support
• May help support a healthy inflammatory response
• Traditionally used to support healthy liver function

What people commonly use it for

• Joint stiffness and minor aches (Some clinical studies suggest benefits)
• Post-exercise muscle soreness (Early research suggests benefits)
• Occasional digestive discomfort (Traditional use)
• General antioxidant support (Good laboratory evidence, with some human studies)
• Gut comfort after rich meals (Traditional use)

Suggested to use alongside

• Black pepper extract: Piperine is often added to support absorption
• Ginger: Warming root often combined
• Fish oil: Omega-3s support joint and heart wellbeing

Turmeric contains three main curcuminoids: curcumin, demethoxycurcumin and bisdemethoxycurcumin. Curcumin is the most studied. It has strong antioxidant activity and appears to influence inflammatory signalling pathways, including NF-kappa B and the COX-2 enzyme, which are involved in the body's normal inflammatory response.

The challenge with curcumin is absorption. On its own it is poorly soluble in water, rapidly broken down in the liver and quickly eliminated, so blood levels are very low. Researchers have found several ways to improve this:

• Piperine (black pepper extract): slows the liver's breakdown of curcumin. A landmark study (Shoba and colleagues, 1998, Planta Medica) found it raised curcumin levels by around 2000 per cent.
• Phospholipid or phytosome complexes: bind curcumin to fat-like molecules for better uptake.
• Nanoparticle and micelle forms: reduce particle size to improve absorption.
• Taking it with fat: curcumin is fat soluble, so a meal containing healthy fats helps.

Whole turmeric powder contains only about 3 per cent curcumin, so extracts standardised to curcuminoids provide a more concentrated amount. Clinical trials for joint comfort have shown encouraging but varied results (Examine.com summary). Turmeric is not a nutrient, so there is no deficiency state.

• Pack size: 120 Caps
• Strength: 1000mg
• Form: Capsules

Always read the label and follow the directions for use. This information is general in nature and not medical advice. If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional.

Supplier ref: Thorne Curcumin Phytosome (Meriva) 1000Mg 120 Capsules

What is the difference between turmeric and curcumin?

Turmeric is the whole root and spice. Curcumin is the main active compound within it, making up around 3 per cent of the powder.

Why is turmeric taken with black pepper?

Piperine in black pepper slows the breakdown of curcumin in the liver, which may increase how much reaches the bloodstream.

When is the best time to take turmeric?

With a meal containing some fat, as curcumin is fat soluble. Many people take it with breakfast or dinner.

How long does turmeric take to work?

Studies on joint comfort usually run for 8 to 12 weeks. Give it at least a month of daily use.

Which form of turmeric is best?

Look for an extract standardised to curcuminoids with an absorption enhancer, such as piperine or a phospholipid complex.

Can I just eat more turmeric in food?

Yes, it is a lovely addition to meals. However, cooking amounts provide much less curcumin than a standardised supplement.

Turmeric may increase the effect of blood thinners and medicines that affect blood sugar, and can affect gallbladder activity. Stop before surgery as directed by your doctor. Seek advice if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have gallstones or a bile duct problem. High amounts can cause digestive upset.

Thorne is an American brand known for clean, rigorously tested practitioner-grade supplements.

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