Top-Notch Turmeric Supplements: Advantages and Potential Drawbacks
Top-Notch Turmeric Supplements: Advantages and Potential Drawbacks
The top turmeric supplements come from brands like Pure Encapsulations, Persona, and others. We explore the best turmeric supplements for addressing inflammation and other health issues.
A brief overview of the best turmeric supplements
- The top turmeric supplement with black pepper: Pure Encapsulations Curcumin 500 With Bioperine | Jump to review
- The best turmeric supplement subscription service: Persona Nutrition Turmeric Capsules | Jump to review
- The most affordable turmeric supplement: Swanson Curcumin Complex | Jump to review
- The best option for a high turmeric dose: BioSchwartz Turmeric Curcumin Capsules | Jump to review
The top 4 turmeric supplements
Comparison
The following table compares the turmeric supplements discussed in this article.
Pure Encapsulationsaround $49
| Component | Turmeric dosage | Servings per container || ----------- | --------------- | --------------------- || Pure Encapsulations (around $49) | capsule | 500 mg | 60 servings || Persona (around $0.37 per day) | capsule | 500 mg | No information available || Swanson (around $24) | capsule | 700 mg (curcumin) | From 120 servings || BioSchwartz (around $19) | capsule | 1,500 mg | 30 servings |
capsule
How we selected the best turmeric supplements
500 mg
We considered turmeric supplements with the following characteristics:
60 servings
- Ingredients: Manufacturers provide a clear list of ingredients, with details about their production processes.
- Safety: Ingredients are considered safe for ingestion.
- Reputation: The manufacturers adhere to best industry practices.
What to look for in turmeric supplements
Persona$0.37 per day
Curcumin has difficulty entering the bloodstream. Turmeric and curcumin tablet supplements often include substances that can significantly increase absorption rates.
capsule
A good turmeric supplement should contain a high concentration of curcumin and an ingredient to improve its body absorption.
500 mg
Taking curcumin with piperine, a component found in black pepper, could help the body absorb more curcumin. Consequently, curcumin supplements may contain piperine or BioPerine to increase absorption. BioPerine is a patented extract of piperine.
no information available
Other compounds and formulations may also enhance absorption.
A turmeric extract rather than powdered turmeric will provide a higher, more concentrated curcumin content in the supplement.
Swansonaround $24
Consider choosing supplements from reputable brands. The FDA does not regulate supplements as strictly as pharmaceuticals. However, many companies have obtained independent approval to ensure their product is reputable. Opt for supplements with third-party certifications or approval to avoid low-quality products.
capsule
Lastly, always consider the dosage when purchasing supplements. Curcumin and turmeric supplements come in various dosages. Some supplements have a higher curcumin content per capsule than others.
700 mg (curcumin)
The recommended dose for supplements is 500 to 1,000 mg per serving. Dosage recommendations may vary based on the condition a person wants to treat. Before starting a new supplement, consult with a doctor, particularly if a person is currently taking other medications.
from 120 servings
The advantages and disadvantages of turmeric supplements
What our expert said about the advantages of turmeric
BioSchwartzaround $19
“Turmeric has the strongest evidence supporting its use for managing osteoarthritis, type 2 diabetes, and certain gastrointestinal diseases, such as ulcerative colitis. It may also be helpful for improving mental health and protecting against cancer, but more research is required.”
capsule
— Amy Richter, MS, RD
1,500 mg
Turmeric, which contains curcumin, may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant health benefits.
30 servings
For example, research suggests that supplementing with curcumin could reduce inflammation-related pain due to conditions such as arthritis. Curcumin's powerful antioxidant properties may protect against cellular damage that could lead to diseases.
A study showed that supplementation with turmeric or curcumin extract could help reduce knee pain from osteoarthritis compared to taking a placebo.
However, before starting turmeric supplementation, consider your health needs and risks.
Learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of turmeric.
Turmeric-related side effects
According to a review, people taking warfarin or other blood thinners should avoid consuming large quantities of turmeric, including turmeric supplements. Turmeric may have blood-thinning properties that could worsen the effects of medication.
The authors note that there is a lack of clinical data on how turmeric affects blood clotting or bleeding. Nonetheless, turmeric appears to have the potential to interfere with blood clotting, possibly increasing the risk of bleeding.
Although there is no research on the effect of turmeric during pregnancy, most people report that turmeric and curcumin supplements have limited effects during pregnancy. However, pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before taking turmeric supplements due to potential adverse effects.
Research suggests that turmeric is generally safe in recommended doses. However, reports of side effects, including diarrhea, headaches, rashes, and yellow stool, have been noted during doses between 500 and 12,000 mg. If a person experiences side effects that persist, or if they have concerns about the effects of supplements on any medications, they should contact their doctor.
Most research indicates that most individuals generally tolerate turmeric supplements well, and they're unlikely to result in negative health consequences. However, there are certain situations where turmeric supplements might not be advisable, such as:
- Those with a propensity for kidney stones: Turmeric has a relatively high oxalate content, which can contribute to the formation of kidney stones. People with a predisposition towards kidney stones may want to consult a healthcare provider before taking turmeric supplements.
- Diabetes patients: Studies suggest that turmeric or its main active compound, curcumin, may impact blood sugar levels and potentially increase the risk of hypoglycemia. Diabetics should consult their healthcare professional prior to taking these supplements.
Furthermore, turmeric supplements may not be suitable for individuals who are currently on specific medications due to the potential for drug-herb interactions. Medications that could potentially interact with turmeric include:
- Acetaminophen
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Anticoagulants/blood thinners
- Certain blood pressure medications
- The antibiotic, norfloxacin
- The antifungal medication, amphotericin B
- The calcium channel blocker, verapamil
- The immunosuppressive drug, tacrolimus
- Some chemotherapy medications, particularly those used for treating breast cancer
In general, it's a good idea to consult a doctor before incorporating any supplement, including turmeric, into your diet.
When it comes to turmeric and its active compound curcumin, turmeric is a plant from the ginger family. People use the root as a spice and in teas. Curcumin is the primary active compound responsible for the vibrant yellow color.
While curcumin has numerous health benefits, its low bioavailability can limit its effectiveness. In fact, only small amounts of curcumin reach the bloodstream, making it less effective as a health supplement. Scientists have developed formulas that utilize micelles, liposomes, microgels, and more to increase curcumin's solubility and bioavailability.
Turmeric itself contains small amounts of nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin B6, and manganese, as well as several antioxidants. However, the amount of these nutrients consumed through turmeric will be negligible for most individuals, as the average consumption is typically only a teaspoon.
For more extensive information on vitamins, minerals, and supplements, check out our dedicated hub.
Some common questions about turmeric supplements include whether there is scientific evidence to support their health benefits. While the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) indicates that there isn't a significant amount of supporting research, many supplement manufacturers promote turmeric as beneficial for health conditions like respiratory infections, allergic responses, digestive disorders, liver conditions, and mental health conditions like depression.
The best-rated turmeric supplement, according to numerous reviews, is the Pure Encapsulations Curcumin 500 With Bioperine supplement.
In summary, turmeric can be included in your diet in various forms, such as a spice in cooking or an ingredient in smoothies or drinks. Turmeric supplements can also provide a more precise dosage of turmeric each day. While early research suggests turmeric may offer benefits in terms of inflammation and antioxidants, further research is needed to validate its benefits and risks. It's always wise to consult a doctor before considering turmeric supplements, as they may not be safe for some individuals, such as pregnant women or individuals taking blood thinners.
She might consider incorporating other nutritional supplements, such as herbal supplements, along with her turmeric regimen. For instance, some herbal supplements, like omega-3 fatty acids or green tea extract, could help further reduce inflammation and promote overall health. (othernutrition)
It's crucial to note that while herbal supplements can contribute to overall wellness, they should be taken responsibly and in conjunction with a balanced diet. Consulting a healthcare provider or a nutritionist can help determine the best combination for her specific needs. (herbalsupplements)