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Curcumin May Improve Mood and Memory Loss, Plus, 3 Tips to Enhance Absorption
Turmeric and its main ingredient, curcumin, have both shown to be powerful antioxidants tied to numerous health benefits. And in a recent study curcumin has been shown to improve mood and memory loss.
Turmeric's active ingredient, curcumin can't do it on its own. In order for it to be absorbed by your body, it will need some help. According to results from a new study by the University of California, Los Angeles, curcumin may improve memory and mood in people with age-related memory loss.
Scientists gathered 40 adults between the ages of 50 and 90 years who had mild memory complaints. They were given either 90mg of curcumin or a placebo twice a day for 18 months. At the start of the study, they gave all subjects a cognitive assessment test and checked levels of curcumin, which they also repeated at the conclusion.
They discovered that those who took curcumin had significant improvements in memory and attention compared to the placebo group - about a 28% improvement over the study period.
In order for curcumin to be absorbed by your body, it will need some help. In this article we have highlighted three tips on how to optimise turmeric curcumin absorption and get the most out of its boosted health benefits.
Top Tips for Absorption:
1. Black pepper Black pepper will increase the bioavailability of curcumin, which basically means it makes it possible for the body to absorb the curcumin. Piperine is the key active ingredient in black pepper, and according to various studies, it's said to help make curcumin more easily absorbed.
2. Fat Some studies suggest that curcumin in turmeric is more easily absorbed when taken with fat. Turmeric is fat-soluble, which means it dissolves in fat, and in order for the body to be able to absorb it, you have to add some fat. We suggest coconut oil in our golden milk recipe below.
3. Heat According to an American study, boiling turmeric for up to 10 minutes will increase its solubility, and may enhance absorption. Add turmeric to a cup of tea or some hot milk. It's also very easy and a great idea to add to all kinds of hot food, such as quinoa, lentils and curries.
Golden Milk with Black Pepper plus Coconut Oil To increase bioavailability of curcumin, add a little black pepper or coconut oil in this golden milk satisfying health drink. Each of the spices add their own delicious flavour and this delicious recipe is perfect for calming and easing digestion.
Ingredients:
250ml warm milk (Nut, Coconut or Soya)
1/2 tsp Pure Curcumin Powder or 1 tsp Turmeric
1/2 - 1 tsp Cinnamon Powder, plus extra for dusting
1 tsp Coconut Oil
Pinch of Black Pepper
Method: Mix all ingredients to a blender. Dust cinnamon powder, and serve.
