Q. Will turmeric/curcumin help ease my arthritis pain?
A. Science shows that regular use of turmeric/curcumin may be as effective as well known NSAID prescription drugs (e.g.Voltaren, Ibuprofen). Turmeric/curcumin might take longer to work but has many other benefits.
Q. How can turmeric/curcumin supplementation benefit so many conditions associated with aging?
A. Inflammation is believed to be the cause of the aging process. Science shows that turmeric/curcumin lowers inflammatory markers and therefore may slow down chronic degenerative diseases associated with aging e.g. arthritis, Alzheimer’s, atherosclerosis (strokes, myocardial infarcts). Turmeric/Curcumin benefits have been well researched.
Q: Will whole turmeric (such as in curry) in my normal diet be enough?
A. Turmeric can be used as a regular spice for taste and medicinal benefit. It contains an active chemical called curcumin. However, there is less than 5% curcumin in whole turmeric and it is poorly absorbed. To get sufficient turmeric/curcumin for therapeutic purposes, you will have to supplement. Black pepper extract is added to increase absorption. Scientific studies show that black pepper extract can increase absorption by 2000%.
Q. Is it only taken to relieve pain or is it recommended as a daily wellness routine?
A. Because of the powerful anti inflammatory properties and many health benefits associated with regular turmeric/curcumin consumption, it can be taken on a regular basis.
Q. Will it also give me gastritis/heartburn like my NSAIDs?
A. Unlikely. You should be able to take turmeric/curcumin in high dosages.
Q. Are there any side effects or special precautions?
A. It is advisable to consult your health care provider with specific conditions. In general turmeric/curcumin is well tolerated at high dosages. Turmeric may enhance the effect of blood thinning agents such as Warfarin. It may also potentiate glucose lowering drugs in diabetics.