Turmeric's Potential and the Importance of Bioavailability for Chiropractors

Turmeric stands out with its multi-faceted therapeutic properties like anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-viral attributes. Studies featured in Nutrition Today tie these properties to possible prevention and management of conditions such as arthritis and type 2 diabetes. A 2022 review further suggests its potential in addressing cancer and depression.

However, if your patients are consuming turmeric supplements and aren't experiencing the anticipated benefits, it might be due to the supplement's composition. Specifically, a lack of bioavailability enhancers could prevent them from reaping turmeric's full potential.

Understanding Turmeric's Bioavailability 

Humans have difficulty absorbing turmeric due to its low bioavailability. As explained in research published in the journal Nutrients, the small intestine absorbs minimal turmeric. The liver's processing during digestion further diminishes its bioavailability. Additionally, rapid metabolism and elimination of oral turmeric curcuminoids reduce its impact. Intriguingly, gender differences exist, with females potentially absorbing it more efficiently than males.

Despite its low absorption, turmeric is nutrient-rich. For instance, the U.S. Department of Agriculture informs that a teaspoon contains essentials like calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium, plus trace elements and vitamins. Maximizing absorption is key to benefiting from these nutrients.

Boosting Turmeric's Bioavailability 

Though pairing turmeric with specific foods like eggs and vegetable oil can improve its absorption, this might not suffice for therapeutic levels. For instance, pairing it with yogurt only achieves around a 6% bioaccessibility.

For chiropractors advising patients on supplements, it's vital to understand certain bioavailability enhancers. One proven method involves combining turmeric with piperine from black pepper. An article from the Journal of Physical Chemistry emphasizes that this combination can amplify curcumin's bioavailability by 20 times.

Bromelain, found in pineapple stems and fruits, is another enhancer. Not only does it offer its own health benefits, as highlighted in a 2019 review, but its primary advantage concerning turmeric is the improved absorption. A 2021 analysis further lauds bromelain's impressive bioavailability.

Selecting Effective Turmeric Supplements 

To ensure your patients gain the most from turmeric supplements, advise them to opt for those containing bioavailability enhancers like piperine or bromelain. Some products combine both, ensuring optimal absorption. Additionally, supplements boasting 95% pure curcumin indicate a rich concentration of turmeric's active ingredient, bolstering its efficacy.

For chiropractors, Dee Cee Laboratories, Inc. provides the Turmeric Extract supplement. It integrates both black pepper extract (BioPerine) and bromelain, ensuring higher absorption. Plus, with its 95% curcumin standardization, it promises superior antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, all their products are produced in an FDA Registered Facility adhering to Good Manufacturing Practices and meeting USP standards, ensuring quality and maximized bioavailability.