In order to get the turmeric health benefits, the nutrient must be protected from gastric acid.

For example, piperine, a natural anti-inflammatory, enhances the bioavailability of curcumin, as well as beta-carotene, selenium, vitamin. It is an unstable compound that is quickly broken down by gastric acid in the stomach. There are several different antioxidants in the spice. Once you learn about the health benefits of turmeric, you may be tempted to run out and buy a supplement. The health benefits of turmeric are due primarily to its antioxidant content.

Even if the nutrient passes through the stomach unchanged, very little of it passes through the intestinal wall and into the bloodstream, unless it is combined with other nutrients that enhance bioavailability and absorption. Have You Pierre About the Health Benefits of Turmeric.

Curcumin has very low bioavailability, meaning, when taken orally, very little unchanged curcumin ends up in the bloodstream. While there's nothing "wrong" with taking a supplement, it could be a waste of money.

Apparently, many people are tempted by reports of turmeric health benefits, because supplement sales have greatly increased over the last three or four years.