Prostate Restored
Photo by Sergey Makashin Pexels Logo Photo: Sergey Makashin

Is curcumin the same as turmeric?

Turmeric contains curcuminoids, which are bioactive compounds, and curcumin is one of these curcuminoid compounds. While turmeric contains only 2 – 9% curcuminoids, 75% of these active curcuminoids are curcumin, which is why curcumin is the “star” of turmeric.

originsfunctionalmedicine.com - Turmeric and Curcumin - are they the same thing?
Can turmeric cure prostate enlargement?
Can turmeric cure prostate enlargement?

Some studies suggest that low doses of turmeric (1/2 teaspoon serving per day) may have some efficacy in conditions such as benign prostatic...

Read More »
How long will I dribble after prostate surgery?
How long will I dribble after prostate surgery?

Most people regain control in the weeks after we remove the catheter. The vast majority of men who had normal urinary control before the procedure...

Read More »

You’ve probably heard lots of people talking about turmeric, and then other people talking about curcumin. But what exactly is the difference? Are they the same thing? Turmeric is a spice, commonly found in curry and used traditionally in many Indian dishes. It’s a rhizome, and a member of the ginger family. This spice is known for its bright yellow/orange color. Turmeric contains curcuminoids, which are bioactive compounds, and curcumin is one of these curcuminoid compounds. While turmeric contains only 2 – 9% curcuminoids, 75% of these active curcuminoids are curcumin, which is why curcumin is the “star” of turmeric. While both turmeric and curcumin are full of health benefits for the body, they also have low bioavailability, which means they aren’t easily absorbed and processed by the body. When cooking with turmeric, it’s a good idea to add black pepper. Studies have shown that black pepper increases the bioavailability of both turmeric and curcumin. In fact, you’ll notice that many curcumin supplements include either black pepper or piperine, which is the active compound in black pepper. So what exactly does curcumin do? To begin with, it’s an antioxidant powerhouse! Along with lessening existing inflammation and dampening future inflammatory pathways, it’s also well known for reducing the pain response, and some people are able to use it in place of NSAIDs such as Advil and Aleve. It’s commonly used in the treatment of osteoarthritis, and many osteoarthritis sufferers report impressive results with consistent use. Curcumin is also lauded for its many anti-cancer effects, and studies are currently underway to determine its efficacy in the treatment and prevention of breast, pancreatic, prostate, colorectal, and lung cancers. But the many uses don’t stop there! Studies have shown that curcumin can protect and repair the gastrointestinal lining, and help people heal from “leaky gut” syndrome. In addition, more research is currently underway to determine how effective curcumin is in the treatment of type 2 diabetes, cystic fibrosis, Crohn’s disease and inflammatory bowel disease, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, gallstones, and more. The many benefits of curcumin supplementation are very exciting, and we here at Origins Functional Medicine love working with our patients to determine safe and natural alternatives to traditional medications. Sarah is a Certified Nutrition Specialist (“CNS”), a national credential awarded by the Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists (https://nutritionspecialists.org ) and a Licensed Dietician/Nutritionist in the state of Florida. She can be found at https://sarahgehawellness.com

What is the permanent solution for prostate enlargement?
What is the permanent solution for prostate enlargement?

Invasive surgery for BPH includes transurethral surgery, which doesn't require open surgery or an external incision. According to the National...

Read More »
Is prostate cancer urgent?
Is prostate cancer urgent?

Prostate cancer is usually a disease that develops and grows over a number of years. Most people do not think of prostate cancer as an illness that...

Read More »

When should I avoid turmeric?

High doses of turmeric could have a blood-thinning effect; if taken on top of prescribed anticoagulants, this could increase the risk of dangerous bleeding. People with liver or bile duct problems should not take turmeric supplements, as they can increase bile production.

Should I be taking turmeric supplements?

Should I be taking turmeric supplements?

BHF dietitian Victoria Taylor says:

Turmeric is a key ingredient in curry powder and also has a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine. The active ingredient is curcumin, which has been found to reduce inflammation and increase antioxidants. There has been some research into whether these properties could protect against heart disease or improve outcomes for people with coronary heart disease. However, although studies have had some positive results, these have not been consistent, and in some cases have been small, short in duration or based on animals (not humans), which makes it difficult to draw reliable conclusions. The issue is complicated by the fact that the curcumin in turmeric is not easily absorbed by the body, so you may get little or no benefit. We therefore don’t recommend turmeric supplements. Turmeric supplements are safe for most people. But if you’re taking anticoagulants (blood thinners) such as warfarin, check with your doctor before taking turmeric supplements. High doses of turmeric could have a blood-thinning effect; if taken on top of prescribed anticoagulants, this could increase the risk of dangerous bleeding. People with liver or bile duct problems should not take turmeric supplements, as they can increase bile production. Cooking with turmeric shouldn’t cause problems. But don’t assume that foods and drinks, such as turmeric lattes, which use turmeric as a selling point, are healthy. They often come with added ingredients that are high in saturated fat or sugar.

What is the lucky color for 2022?
What is the lucky color for 2022?

Cerulean blue, fiery red, mint green and imperial yellow are the lucky colours for 2022. These colours are derived from the four elements of Feng...

Read More »
Is garlic high in testosterone?
Is garlic high in testosterone?

Studies have shown that garlic can naturally boost testosterone levels. Diallyl disulfide is the chemical in garlic that helps in the production of...

Read More »
Is it better to drink olive oil in the morning or at night?
Is it better to drink olive oil in the morning or at night?

Specifically, researchers have found that having the extra virgin olive oil before you sleep may be the wisest time of day to have it.

Read More »
Imagine Your Moment Of Freedom!
Imagine Your Moment Of Freedom!

Fluxactive Complete is conveniently packed with over 14 essential prostate powerhouse herbs, vitamins and grade A nutrients which work synergistically to help you support a healthy prostate faster

Learn More »
How can I test my zinc levels at home?
How can I test my zinc levels at home?

This simple test involves holding a teaspoon of liquid zinc supplement in your mouth for about 10 seconds and assessing your taste reaction to it.

Read More »