A type of ginger, curcumin is one of three components of Curcuma longa, also known as the Indian spice turmeric. Curcumin and its other curcuminoids, desmethosycurcumin and bis-desmethosycurcumin, give turmeric its vibrant shade of yellow. But this spice isn't only used as a food colorant or additive – the curcumin in turmeric has various medicinal traits, making it one of the most valuable nutritional supplements available.
Its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties have been known to be just as effective as certain anti-inflammatory drugs, and they may even aid cognitive function and lower risk of multiple chronic conditions, according to Healthline. Furthermore, taking a curcumin supplement may help to improve vascular endothelial function, according to recent research by the University of Colorado Boulder.
New Longvida Curcumin Research
Researchers, led by Jessica Santos-Park, a postdoctoral fellow in the Integrative Physiology of Aging Laboratory at CU Boulder, developed a hypothesis that curcumin had the ability to improve resistance in artery endothelial function and treat large artery stiffness in middle-aged and older adults in good health. The participants consisted of 39 men and postmenopausal woman.
"The findings prove the benefits of curcumin, even over a short period."
The contributing individuals were randomly chosen to receive curcumin supplementation or a placebo over a period of 12 weeks.
Those who received the curcumin saw a 37 percent increase in forearm blood flow in response to acetylcholine infusions. The curcumin also reduced the acute increase in blood flow in response to vitamin C, and increased brachial artery flow-mediated dilation by 36 percent. Those who were given the placebo saw no difference across the board, but the curcumin group also didn't notice a change in large elastic artery stiffness.
In conclusion, the researchers found support for half of their hypothesis. Twelve weeks of curcumin supplementation in healthy middle-aged and older females and males increases vascular nitric oxide bioavailability and reduces oxidative stress, which ultimately can improve resistance artery endothelial function. Consuming curcumin over a three month span can also improve conduit artery endothelial function.
The findings prove just how beneficial curcumin is, and how advantageous a supplement can be, even when taken over a short period.
Try Longvida™ Optimized Curcumin
Developed in conjunction with neuroscientists at UCLA, Longvida curcumin offers SLCP – Solid Lipid Curcumin Particle technology. SLCP™ is a patented, finely-tuned lipophilic technology brought together in a gentle, multi-step process. The end product preserves the natural spectrum curcumin from the harsh environment of the stomach, dissolves it at the point of absorption in the GI tract, and delivers the free form (also called intact or native) into the blood stream and target tissues.
Used in various clinical trials, Longvida™ has been shown to support joint health and flexibility, modulate inflammatory responses and support cognitive health. It's recommended you consult your doctor before beginning any dietary supplements. For more information on Nutrivene Longvida Curcumin, click here.