Page 59 - The Autoimmune Protocol

The Autoimmune Protocol

Turmeric: Anti-Inflammatory Powerhouse

Turmeric is steadily increasing in popularity due to its effects on inflammation and pain
in the body. Turmeric contains a constituent called curcumin that targets inflammation
by helping the body reduce the number of neurotransmitter histamines, as well as helping
cortisol prolong its anti-inflammatory activity. Many people who take turmeric claim that
as a result of lowered inflammation, they also experience less pain. Turmeric has been
described as having similar anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects as popular over-
the-counter pain and inflammation medications.

There are a number of ways one can take turmeric. One way is including it in the diet as
much as possible. This may be hard to do, as turmeric has a specific, somewhat spicy taste,
and may not work well in every dish. Many people get their daily dose of turmeric in other
ways as well. One way is through drinking golden milk.

More on Turmeric and Black Pepper
Turmeric and black pepper are a wonderful match, as they complement each other
perfectly. The curcumin in turmeric makes it an amazing source for inflammation relief,
but the only drawback is that curcumin has poor bioavailability. Once the curcumin
reaches the liver and intestinal walls, it is quickly metabolized. This means that only a
small portion of this beneficial constituent is actually absorbed by the body through the
bloodstream. Black pepper contains a constituent called piperine that has been shown to
help improve the serum concentration and bioavailability of curcumin in the body!
Studies have shown an astounding increase in curcumin absorption when black pepper is
consumed with turmeric. Even though recipes for golden milk do not call for black
pepper, you might try adding a small amount (less than 20 milligrams) of black pepper in
supplement form for aiding in curcumin absorption when drinking golden milk or taking
a turmeric supplement that does not contain black pepper.

Turmeric Supplements
There is a wide variety of turmeric supplements on the market today. The issue with many
supplements is that the industry is largely unregulated and sometimes it’s hard to know
the quality of the supplements you are taking. There are supplements that have processed
the curcumin into something much more bioavailable, and these claim to be far superior
to other types of turmeric. The best thing you can do is research a turmeric supplement
before buying it. Make sure you know how bioavailable the turmeric is, whether or not it
is organic, and whether or not the company producing it is reputable.

Ginger for Pain and Inflammation

Ginger is another excellent plant remedy for fighting inflammation in the body. Like
turmeric, ginger is a root that contains anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
Ginger and turmeric are both somewhat spicy and used in a variety of exotic dishes. Both

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