We have all heard about turmeric - the proposed health benefits, the various recipes, and the various forms of supplementation. It’s fair to say that the popularity of supplementing with turmeric is on the rise!
There have been many suggested health benefits of turmeric, which we will get into in this article, though we will also shed some light on some of the best ways to take it.
First, what is this remarkable golden spice, and what can it offer us?
What is Turmeric?
Turmeric is one of the most popular spices, being heavily used in Asian cuisine and in curry dishes, and known as golden spice for its warm, bitter taste and vibrant color.
Turmeric has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine - the traditional Indian medicine system - to treat a variety of health conditions and ailments.
You may have heard turmeric and curcumin being described interchangeably. This is because curcumin is the active ingredient of turmeric and is more often praised for the health benefits it provides.
Curcumin is the active compound thought to provide the most benefits around joint pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis. But does this mean there is a difference between turmeric and curcumin?
Not particularly! Curcumin and the other compounds found in turmeric (curcuminoids) are extracted to produce supplements that are of a higher potency than turmeric, however it is not known how significant this may be.
While curcumin may have a slightly higher potency than turmeric, turmeric also has additional benefits that curcumin does not have. So, when you weigh it all up, there isn’t much difference between them.
The most important thing to look for in a turmeric supplement is a good quality extract!
Let’s look a bit closer as the proposed health benefits of supplementing with turmeric.
Turmeric Health Benefits
Some of the most noted health benefits of turmeric include:
Reducing Pain and Inflammation
The main reason many individuals would supplement with turmeric is for easing pain and inflammation, particularly when associated with osteoarthritis or other arthritic conditions.
Some studies have suggested that turmeric supplementation is effective in reducing pain and discomfort because of this arthritic condition, as well as improving physical function.
Potentially Reducing Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety
One study compared to effects of turmeric to a placebo and found a reduction in symptoms of depression and anxiety over an 8-week period of supplementation.
While the research is still young in this area, this may suggest some potential benefits for those who suffer from depression and anxiety.
May Lower Cholesterol
A few studies have noted that turmeric appears to lower triglyceride levels, thus lowering cholesterol levels in those with high cholesterol.
May Aid Digestion
Some early research is indicating that turmeric may contribute towards a healthy digestive system because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Turmeric may even be considered a remedy for certain digestive conditions such as IBS, though more research needs to confirm this.
How To Take Turmeric: 5 Best Ways
The best way to take turmeric largely depends on what you may be taking it for, but there are also some fun ways to incorporate it into your diet, whether that be as food or a supplement!
Here are 5 of the best ways to take turmeric:
1. Capsules
Capsules are a great way to take turmeric if you want the benefits of an accurate dose, and a quick and convenient way to add more turmeric into your diet.
Though, turmeric capsules widely vary when it comes to price and quality, so it’s important to ensure that you’re taking a high-quality supplement for the best chance of absorption and effectiveness.
2. Liquid
Consuming turmeric in liquid form is one of the best ways to take it, particularly if you’re taking it for the potential digestive health benefits.
Any supplement in liquid form would absorb better and would improve the effectiveness of the supplement.
Turmeric in liquid form is often paired with other ingredients, such as black pepper, to enhance absorption and to make it more palatable.
You can also find certain liquids paired with probiotics or live cultures to really boost gut health!
3. Powder
Turmeric powder would be the common ground turmeric you see on the shelves in supermarkets.
This option of taking turmeric is more for the individuals who want to include more of it in their diet, but mostly through enhancing food dishes as opposed to taking it as a supplement.
This is a great pick for those who want to increase turmeric intake through recipes as opposed to taking a tablet or capsule.
There are many turmeric recipes that have been used for centuries as home remedies for certain ailments, most notably “golden milk” - a traditional Ayurvedic medicine.
4. Shot
Liquid turmeric shots contain a high concentration of turmeric extract, which is to be taken like a “shot”.
This method of taking turmeric is similar to the liquid method, but likely not as strong. Many shots available on the market also include other ingredients to enhance flavour and absorption.
A good, convenient source of turmeric for on-the-go.
5. Performance Lab Flex: The Best Way to Take Turmeric
There has been some promising research on the effects of turmeric for joint pain and inflammation, so it’s definitely a supplement to consider taking if you’re seeking relief from arthritic-like conditions.
While turmeric as a solo supplement, or as other forms such as the above, are great ways to take it, the best way to take turmeric for joints and inflammation is to combine it with other compounds for joints.
This would enhance your results, as well as the time it takes you to see the results!
Our top pick would be Performance Lab Flex, which combines turmeric extract with the following compounds:
- Boswellia serrata
- Glucosamine sulfate
- Chondroitin
- MSM
Flex is an essential supplement for supporting overall joint health and daily movement. It provides joint lubrication, shock absorption, ligament and tendon support, and relief from achy, stiff joints!
Take-Home Message
Turmeric is a remarkable spice known to enhance the flavour and color of many of your favorite dishes.
Though, turmeric is now widely available in many supplement forms due to the potential health benefits around pain, inflammation, digestion, and possibly symptoms of depression and anxiety.
There are many ways to take turmeric, with some of the best ways being liquid for increased absorption, or as a capsule for more accurate dosing.
Whichever way you choose to consume turmeric, when it comes to joint health, there is only one best way to take it, which is as a combination supplement.
Performance Lab Flex is our top pick, being the best way to take turmeric for joint pain and inflammation, and overall joint health and support!
