This week we're digging into the increasing research of Curcumin for our brain. Curcumin has been getting a lot of attention lately for its potential benefits. Turmeric has been used in traditional Indian medicine for centuries, and recent research suggests that Curcumin can positively impact brain function through various mechanisms. Let's take a closer look...
One of the key advantages of Curcumin is its ability to reduce inflammation in the brain.
Inflammation plays a significant role in several brain diseases, including Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Studies have shown that Curcumin possesses anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect against these neurodegenerative conditions[1][2].
Curcumin is also known to increase the levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein crucial for brain health.
BDNF promotes the growth of new Neurons and synapses while safeguarding existing Neurons from damage. By elevating BDNF levels in the brain, Curcumin may enhance cognitive function and offer protection against neurodegenerative diseases[3][4].
Another benefit of Curcumin is its ability to reduce oxidative stress in the brain. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body. Free radicals can damage cells, but antioxidants neutralise them, preventing harm. Curcumin acts as a potent antioxidant, helping to mitigate oxidative stress in the brain[5].
Furthermore, Curcumin has been shown to improve blood flow to the brain, which is vital for optimal brain function. By enhancing blood circulation, Curcumin may contribute to better cognitive abilities and aid in protecting against neurodegenerative diseases[6].
“Turmeric increases levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione- two antioxidants important to brain function. Its powers include cancer prevention, elimination of free radicals, and support for the heart, liver, and gastrointestinal systems. Turmeric has very poor bioavailability - that is less than 5 percent of what you ingest actually gets into your system” —Grow a new body, Alberto Villoldo
In Alberto Villoldo’s groundbreaking book "Grow a New Body" he correctly mentions that turmeric increases the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione, two antioxidants crucial for brain function.
SOD is an enzyme that safeguards cells from free radical damage, while glutathione aids in detoxification. Turmeric's anti-inflammatory properties also contribute to its brain-protective effects by countering inflammation-induced damage[7].
However, as we know turmeric has relatively poor bioavailability. This means that only a small amount of ingested Curcumin actually enters the bloodstream. To overcome this limitation, it is advisable to choose Curcumin forms that are easily absorbed—such as Kurk.
It is crucial to select a form with high bioavailability. Some effective options include Curcumin with piperine, and Curcumin with black pepper extract, but nothing yet has come even close to the bioavailability of Curcumin micelles[8] which is the technology that we use with Kurk.
In conclusion—Curcumin is a potent compound with potential benefits for brain health. Whether you seek to improve cognitive function or safeguard your brain from diseases, Curcumin can be a valuable option to consider.Remember to take it regularly for optimal benefits.
References:
(1)Baum L, et al. Curcumin Effects on Blood Lipid Profile in a 6-Month Human Study. Pharmacogn Mag. 2018;14(Suppl 1):S448-S454.
(2)Farzaei MH, et al. Curcumin in Liver Diseases: A Systematic Review of the Cellular Mechanisms of Oxidative Stress and Clinical Perspective. Nutrients. 2018;10(7):855.
(3)Jiang T, et al. Curcumin Improves Age-Related Spatial Memory Decline Through Hippocampal ERK/P70S6K Signaling Pathway in SAMP8 Mice. J Mol Neurosci. 2015;57(4):488-497.
(4)Xu Y, et al. Curcumin reverses impaired cognition and neuronal plasticity induced by chronic stress. Neuropharmacology. 2009;57(4):463-471.
(5)Xu Y, et al. Curcumin reverses impaired hippocampal neurogenesis and increases serotonin receptor 1A mRNA and brain-derived neurotrophic factor expression in chronically stressed rats. Brain Res. 2007;1162:9-18.
(6)Ahmed T, et al. Curcumin and Vitamin E Protect Against Adverse Effects of Benzo[a]pyrene in Lymphocytes via Changes in Redox Signaling. Toxicol Ind Health. 2018;34(7):457-466.
(7)Hybertson BM, et al. Oxidative stress in health and disease: the therapeutic potential of Nrf2 activation. Mol Aspects Med. 2011;32(4-6):234-246.
(8)Anand P, et al. Bioavailability of Curcumin: Problems and Promises. Mol Pharm. 2007;4(6):807-818.
(9)Hewlings SJ, et al. Curcumin: A Review of Its' Effects on Human Health. Foods. 2017;6(10):92.
