Curcumin And Health Supplements
Curcumin is a yellow chemical, produced by the plant Curcuma longa. It is the primary curcuminoid found in turmeric and is a member of the ginger family (Zingiberaceae). Curcumin is sold as an herbal supplement, a food coloring and flavoring agent, and as an herbal cosmetic ingredient. This article examines the benefits of curcumin and how it can help your health.
Curcumin May Reduce Oxidative Stress
Curcumin may be an effective natural antioxidant and may reduce oxidative stress in some cases. Its antioxidative activity is important for many conditions, including those caused by oxidative stress. Curcumin treatment decreased MDA and TOS, two markers of oxidative stress. In addition, curcumin treatment improved redox balance in the body and increased antioxidant defenses. Further, these findings may help with the treatment of oxidative stress-mediated illnesses.
It May Reduce Inflammation
Recent studies show that taking health supplements containing curcumin may reduce the levels of certain inflammatory mediators. These mediators include cyclooxygenase (COX), cyclooxygenase-like protein (CHIP), and alanine amino transferase (AAT). The compound also inhibits nuclear factor-kappa B, a protein involved in the inflammatory response.
It May Inhibit Cell Death
The first study suggests that curcumin can inhibit cell death by inhibiting autophagic activity. This was conducted using a cell culture model in which HemECs were exposed to 0 or 25 mM curcumin for 24 hours. Cells were then washed three times in phosphate buffer solution and fixed in 4% paraformaldehyde for 10 minutes. The cells were then stained with uranyl acetate and lead citrate and examined using an electron microscope at a magnification of 60,000 x.
It May Enhance Blood Thinners
A new study has suggested that curcumin may enhance blood-thinning drugs in patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Researchers looked at whether the dietary spice curcumin improves cognition and blood-thinning medication levels. They found that curcumin decreased biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative damage. It also inhibited the formation of Ab fibrils and destabilized preformed fibrils.
It May Improve Insulin Resistance
Studies have shown that curcumin can improve the function of beta cells, which produce the hormone insulin. Insulin is important in controlling blood sugar and ferrying glucose from the bloodstream to the cells. People with type 2 diabetes lose beta cells and therefore become insulin resistant. Because of this, the pancreas must crank out more insulin to bring blood sugar levels down. Despite this, the blood sugar level remains elevated. This is because insulin resistance is associated with reduced insulin sensitivity. In addition, the pancreas is unable to produce enough insulin, and the disease progresses.
It May Reduce Neuropathic Pain
Taking health supplements containing curcumin and fish oil can help alleviate neuropathic pain. Both of these nutrients are anti-inflammatory and help repair damaged nerve cells. When taken regularly, they can help prevent the progression of neuropathy and even reverse it in some cases. Fish oil is also beneficial for the health of the nervous system, as it contains omega-3 fatty acids that can relieve pain and inflammation. It can be found naturally in fish, as well as flaxseed, chia seeds, and flaxseed oil.
