Turmeric is a spice commonly used in South Asian cooking. Its bright yellow color and unique flavor make it a popular ingredient in many dishes. It has also been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties. In recent years, turmeric supplements have become popular as a natural remedy for various health concerns. If you’re wondering what the best turmeric supplements to take are, keep reading!
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Turmeric Supplement
Not all turmeric supplements are created equal. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a turmeric supplement:
Form of Turmeric
Turmeric supplements come in different forms, including:
- Curcumin Supplements: Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric responsible for its anti-inflammatory properties, so many supplements focus solely on this compound.
- Whole Turmeric Supplements: These supplements contain the entire turmeric root, which contains other beneficial compounds besides curcumin.
- Standardized vs. Non-Standardized: Standardized supplements are composed of a specific amount of curcumin per serving. Non-standardized supplements may vary in curcumin content from batch to batch.
Dosage
The amount of turmeric or curcumin in each supplement can vary widely. Some supplements may contain only a small amount of turmeric or curcumin, while others may contain very high doses. The ideal dosage depends on what you’re using the supplement for and your personal health history.
Quality
Turmeric supplements are not regulated by the FDA in the same way that prescription drugs are, so the quality can vary between brands. Be sure to choose a reputable brand with good reviews.
Additional Ingredients
Some turmeric supplements may contain additional ingredients, such as black pepper extract, which can increase the absorption of curcumin.
Top Turmeric Supplements
NatureWise Curcumin Turmeric Supplement
This supplement contains 1650mg of turmeric root extract per serving, with 95% curcuminoids, the active ingredient in turmeric that has anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, this supplement contains BioPerine, a black pepper extract that enhances the absorption of curcumin. This supplement is gluten-free, has no artificial additives, and is third-party tested for purity and potency.
Garden of Life Mykind Organics Turmeric Inflammatory Response Gummy
Garden of Life’s Mykind Organics Turmeric Inflammatory Response Gummy is a great option for those who prefer a more pleasant form of supplementation. Each serving consists of two gummies, containing 400mg of organic curcumin-containing turmeric. These gummies are made with organic fruit and are free of preservatives and artificial colors and flavors.
Zenwise Health Turmeric Curcumin Supplement
This supplement contains 500mg of curcumin with 95% standardized curcuminoids per serving. It also contains BioPerine black pepper extract to enhance absorption. Zenwise Health’s Turmeric Curcumin Supplement is vegan, gluten-free, and made in the USA.
Terry Naturally Curamin Extra Strength
This supplement combines curcumin (500mg per serving) with boswellia, DLPA, and nattokinase for a more comprehensive approach to managing inflammation. This supplement also contains Terry Naturally’s proprietary BCM-95 curcumin, which is known for its enhanced absorption. It is free of common allergens and is third-party tested for quality and purity.
Vimerson Health Turmeric Curcumin with BioPerine Supplement
This supplement contains 1300mg of turmeric root extract, with 95% curcuminoids per serving, and 10mg of BioPerine black pepper extract to enhance absorption. It is vegan, gluten-free, and made in the USA. Additionally, it is GMO-free and does not contain any artificial additives or preservatives.
Conclusion
The best turmeric supplement for you depends on your individual health needs and preferences. When choosing a supplement, consider the form of turmeric, dosage, quality, and additional ingredients. The supplements listed above are all high-quality options with excellent reviews.
FAQs
- What are the benefits of taking a turmeric supplement? Turmeric supplements are primarily used for their anti-inflammatory properties. They may also be helpful in managing joint pain and improving brain function.
- Are turmeric supplements safe? Turmeric is generally considered safe when taken in recommended doses. However, in some cases, turmeric may interact with certain medications or have side effects such as upset stomach or low blood sugar.
- What is the recommended dosage of turmeric? The appropriate dosage of turmeric varies depending on what you are using it for. Most studies use doses of between 500-2000mg of curcumin per day.
- How long should I take a turmeric supplement? There is no specific recommended duration for taking a turmeric supplement. However, it is always a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
References
- Naveen, S., et al. (2018). Role of curcumin in systemic and oral health: An overview. Journal of Natural Science, Biology, and Medicine, 9(2), 121–126.
- Kuptniratsaikul, V., et al. (2014). Efficacy and safety of Curcuma domestica extracts compared with ibuprofen in patients with knee osteoarthritis: a multicenter study. Clinical Interventions in Aging, 9, 451–458.
- Vogel, M. (2017). Curcumin: A Review of Its’ Effects on Human Health. Foods, 6(10), 92–111.