Discover the extraordinary synergy between turmeric and black pepper as we delve into the remarkable health benefits these two ingredients bring when combined. Turmeric, a vibrant herb with its active compound curcumin, offers a range of medicinal properties, while black pepper's piperine enhances curcumin's absorption. Together, they form a dynamic duo that can elevate your well-being to new heights.
Join us on this journey to unlock the potential of turmeric and black pepper and harness their incredible health-boosting effects.
In this blog, we will cover:
What is Turmeric?
Turmeric, a herb derived from the ginger spice family, has been used for centuries in India, Asia, and Central America to add vibrant colour and delightful flavours to a wide range of dishes. Beyond its culinary uses, turmeric offers a multitude of medicinal benefits primarily attributed to its active compound, curcumin. Derived from the stems of the herb, curcumin is renowned for its remarkable antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. These properties make turmeric a valuable ally in combating inflammation, addressing issues related to arthritis, and supporting the health of the stomach, skin, liver, and gallbladder.
The potent combination of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties present in curcumin contributes to its wide range of therapeutic applications, making turmeric a powerful natural remedy for various ailments.
What are the health benefits of Turmeric?
Many scientific studies have been conducted about the benefits of turmeric; the two big areas of research are firstly inflammation and secondly about cancer.
Fighting Inflammation: Curcumin possesses potent anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate inflammation-related issues such as arthritis, stomach problems, and skin conditions.
Antioxidant Potential: Turmeric enhances your body's ability to activate antioxidants, protecting against free radicals and oxidative damage.
Brain and Nervous System Health: Studies have shown that curcumin can improve conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, as well as other neurodegenerative disorders.
Cardiovascular Support: Turmeric aids in lowering blood pressure, reducing lipid levels, and preventing arterial blockages. It also protects the inner lining of the arteries from inflammation.
Antimicrobial and Antifungal Properties: Turmeric exhibits strong antimicrobial, antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal effects, making it a valuable tool for combating various infections.
Liver Protection: Turmeric supports liver health by preventing fat accumulation and fibrosis, which can occur due to inflammation.
Digestive Health: Turmeric increases bile salts, promoting better digestion and supporting the gut's mucosal lining, thus helping prevent autoimmune diseases.
DNA Protection: Curcumin directly targets DNA, safeguarding it against damage caused by free radicals.
DNA Repair and Apoptosis: Curcumin aids in DNA repair and helps damaged cells self-destruct in a controlled manner, known as apoptosis.
Endocrine System Support: Turmeric improves insulin sensitivity, protecting against the development of diabetes. It also acts as an adaptogen, enhancing stress tolerance and aiding in mood and cognitive disorders.
How should you take Turmeric?
With all the health benefits listed above it is very difficult to reach these beneficial levels just using turmeric as a spice in your foods. That’s why some people choose to use supplements. However, the active ingredient curcumin is poorly absorbed into your bloodstream.
To reach the beneficial levels the bioavailability of curcumin needs to improve. This is achieved by consuming turmeric with black pepper which enhances the absorption of curcumin by 2000%
What is bioavailability?
Bioavailability refers to the extent and rate at which a nutrient or compound is absorbed and utilized by the body. It determines the amount of a nutrient that is available for the body to use after ingestion. Some nutrients have high bioavailability, meaning they are easily digested, absorbed, and metabolized. However, certain compounds, like curcumin, have poor or low bioavailability, resulting in a slower process of absorption and metabolism.
In the case of curcumin, its bioavailability is limited, which means that the body may not efficiently absorb and utilize the full benefits of this compound. Enhancing the bioavailability of curcumin becomes crucial to ensure its maximum effectiveness in promoting health and well-being.
The Synergy of Turmeric and Black Pepper
While turmeric offers a multitude of health benefits, its active compound, curcumin, has low bioavailability. To address this, black pepper, specifically, its compound piperine, comes into play. Piperine enhances the absorption of curcumin by 2000% and supports the liver's detoxification process. By inhibiting the enzymes responsible for breaking down curcumin and prolonging its time in the intestines, piperine significantly improves its bioavailability.
The combination of turmeric and black pepper creates a powerful synergy that enhances both the taste and health benefits of your meals. Incorporating these ingredients into your cooking can be as simple as marinating chicken or preparing a flavourful curry using a variety of spices.
Turmeric and black pepper are individually remarkable ingredients, but when combined, they offer a potent combination for optimal health. Turmeric curcumin provides antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and various other health benefits, while black pepper's piperine enhances curcumin's bioavailability. Whether you choose to incorporate them into your meals or opt for a convenient turmeric and black pepper supplement, harnessing the power of this combination can greatly enhance your well-being.
At MARRS Healthcare, we understand the challenges of busy schedules, which is why we offer a turmeric and black pepper supplement designed to maximise your health benefits conveniently.