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Because of those laboratory studies, clinical trials are now underway to look at the turmeric inflammation reduction capabilities, along with its benefits for cancer and Alzheimer's. Other compounds in the foods that we eat have anti-inflammatory activity, as well. In order to better understand the studies concerning turmeric and inflammation, it helps to learn a little bit about pro-inflammatory molecules that are present in the human body. News About Turmeric and Inflammation Reduction Preliminary studies concerning turmeric and inflammation were promising. There is now an accepted diet for those that suffer from rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory diseases. Many of the nutrients in these foods are readily absorbed by the body and help to balance out the effect of pro-inflammatory eicosanoids.
Those pro-inflammatory molecules are called eicosanoids. The anti-inflammatory drugs that we have act by reducing the production of eicosanoids or inhibiting COX enzymes. But, there is a problem with turmeric inflammation reduction capabilities. The active curcumin is quickly degraded by stomach acid and very little ends up. They are released when essential fatty acids are oxidized or when COX enzymes act on those fatty acids.
Turmeric inflammation inhibition may be greater than our anti-inflammatory drugs, because the active compound (curcumin) inhibits the production of eicosanoids. |