New research shows that supplementing with curcumin may enhance physical performance and protect against muscle damage in sedentary individuals.
The research, led by the University of Vicosa in Brazil, reported that curcumin supplementation — ranging from 0.18 gm to 0.4 gm per day — by sedentary individuals reduced inflammation, fatigue and muscle pain during acute physical activity, while helping improve muscle recovery and sports performance.
“…The evidence on the anti-inflammatory potential… suggests a reduction in proinflammatory markers promoting a rapid tissue recovery after stress,” researchers wrote.
Overtrained, under-recovered
Although regular physical exercise promotes good health, intense physical exercise and insufficient recovery may cause muscle damage, inflammation, fatigue, decreased muscle function and poor performance.
The results show that curcumin may provide anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and analgesic effects after acute exercise, helping promote faster recovery, maximising performance and preventing injuries.
International health expert, Maria Ascencao said the efficacy of curcumin supplementation is usually limited due to its poor bioavailability.
However, she pointed out that Bio-Curcumin — a potent curcumin extract that contains BCM-95, a highly bioavailable curcuminoid and turmeric formulation — is backed by 83 clinical studies and has received a US patent due to its enhanced absorption.
“Bio-Curcumin delivers up to seven times more free and bioactive curcumin into the bloodstream than standard curcumin extracts and remains active in the body for over eight hours. It is used by millions around the world for this reason,” she added.
Author: Pedro van Gaalen
When he’s not writing about sport or health and fitness, Pedro is probably out training for his next marathon or ultra-marathon. He’s worked as a fitness professional and as a marketing and comms expert. He now combines his passions in his role as managing editor at Fitness magazine.
Leave a Reply