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Tejal Somvanshi

Is Turmeric the Key to Better Brain, Heart and Joint Health? The Stats Behind Curcumin’s Power and Benefits.

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Turmeric has become a staple in many kitchens and medicine cabinets worldwide.

Curcumin is the main ingredient in turmeric, responsible for its vibrant yellow color and many health benefits. However, it's important to note that turmeric contains only about 3% curcumin by weight.

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One of the most well-known benefits of curcumin is its potent anti-inflammatory effect. Chronic inflammation is linked to numerous health issues, including heart disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative conditions.

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A study by Dr. An-Hsun Chou, a researcher at Chang Gung University, and his team explains: "Inhibiting the activation of NF-kB has been associated with anti-inflammatory effects.A study observed that an NF-kB inhibitor suppressed the expression of COX-2, TNF-α, and IL-6 induced by cutaneous anaphylaxis, underscoring its role in mitigating inflammation.”

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Oxidative stress, caused by an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body, is a critical factor in ageing and many diseases. Curcumin is a powerful antioxidant, neutralizing free radicals and boosting the body's antioxidant enzymes.

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A 2020 study published in the journal Antioxidants found that "curcumin exhibits strong antioxidant activity, which may contribute to its potential in preventing and treating various oxidative stress-related diseases.

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Research suggests that curcumin may benefit brain health in several ways. It can increase brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, a protein crucial for brain function and the formation of new neurons.

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A study by Dr. Helena Tiekou Lorinczova, a researcher at the University of Westminster, and team states: "Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is key for the maintenance of normal neuronal function and energy homeostasis and has been suggested to improve cognitive function, including learning and memory. Iron and the antioxidant curcumin have been shown to influence BDNF homeostasis."

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This might be beneficial for conditions like depression and Alzheimer's disease. By increasing BDNF, curcumin may help delay or even reverse some brain diseases and age-related decreases in brain function.

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A study published in the Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology found that curcumin can improve endothelial function - the health of the lining of blood vessels. This is crucial for regulating blood pressure and preventing blood clots.

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A review in the journal Molecules notes: "Curcumin has shown promise in inhibiting the growth of various types of cancer cells in laboratory studies. It may also help reduce the spread of cancer and contribute to the death of cancerous cells.

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The anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin make it beneficial for people with arthritis. A Journal of Medicinal Food study found that curcumin was more effective than a common anti-inflammatory drug in reducing joint inflammation in people with rheumatoid arthritis.

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