Curcumin

Turmeric – the plant used worldwide for its color, flavor, and powerful health benefits.

What’s the secret behind turmeric? Curcuminoids. These are the active powerhouses in turmeric, and Curcumin is the most powerful of them all. Curcumin is the most studied phytochemical in the world, with curcumin benefits for inflammation, heart health, and brain function.

While turmeric contains around 2-8% curcumin by weight, it's crucial to distinguish between the spice and its most active compound. Curcumin is the concentrated form, offering a more potent array of health benefits than turmeric itself. Imagine turmeric as a treasure chest, and curcumin as the precious jewel inside – valuable, concentrated, and full of potential.

Why Curcumin is Important

Curcumin plays a big role in brain function, reducing inflammation, and supporting long-term cognitive health. The only catch? It’s not easily absorbed by the body. That’s why pairing it with the right nutrients can make all the difference.

At Cover Three, we include concentrated curcumin in our brain-boosting formulation. To get the same amount of curcumin as a single Cover Three packet (500mg), you’d have to eat nearly four tablespoons of turmeric powder. That’s why taking a direct curcumin supplement is a more effective choice.

Benefits of Curcumin

Curcumin is the golden compound that offers numerous benefits for the brain, and the whole body:

• Neuroprotection - Curcumin has the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, a unique quality that allows it to directly enter the brain and impact the cells inside. Its neuroprotective properties help shield brain cells from forms of damage.
• Cognitive Function - Regular consumption of curcumin has been linked to improved cognitive function. This might be especially beneficial as we age, helping to keep our minds sharp and our memories clear
• Balanced, Healthy Mood - Curcumin can also play a crucial role in mood regulation. It is shown to influence the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein essential in keeping brain neurons healthy. This can mean better mood balance, and even a positive impact on mental health challenges like depression and anxiety.
  

Curcumin's Role in Age-Related Cognitive Decline

Growing older naturally comes with cognitive decline, but growing evidence shows that curcumin can help preserve brain health as we age. These are the scientific highlights showing curcumin's potential in the fight against cognitive decline.

1. Neuroprotection - A 2008 study published in the "Annals of Indian Academy of Neurology" demonstrated that curcumin's neuroprotective properties are closely linked to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. This means it can directly interact with brain cells and potentially shield them from age-related damage. 
2. Anti-Inflammatory Effects - Research published in the journal "Nutrition Journal" in 2012 examined the effects of curcumin in older adults. The study found that curcumin significantly reduced markers of inflammation and oxidative stress – factors associated with cognitive decline. 
3. Influence on Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) - A "Nutrition Research" study in 2019 investigated curcumin's impact on BDNF, a protein crucial for neuron health and synaptic plasticity. The findings suggest that curcumin may boost BDNF, potentially assisting cognitive function and memory. 
4. Cognitive Enhancement - A 2018 randomized controlled trial in "The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry" studied the effects of curcumin supplementation in older adults with mild cognitive impairment. The results indicated that curcumin was associated with significant improvements in memory and attention tasks compared to a placebo.

A growing body of scientific research shows curcumin's benefits in age-related cognitive decline. Its neuroprotective qualities, anti-inflammatory effects, potential to boost BDNF levels, and demonstrated cognitive enhancement in clinical trials all point to its role in maintaining cognitive health in aging.

More comprehensive research is needed to understand curcumin's impact, but these findings show its potential as a natural, nurturing approach to preserving brain function in the later years of life.

How to Add Curcumin to Your Daily Routine

Getting more curcumin into your diet doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some simple ways to do it:

• Take a Curcumin Supplement – The easiest and most effective way to get the benefits of curcumin is to take a high-quality supplement with bioavailable ingredients.
• Pair Turmeric with Healthy Fats – If using turmeric in food, combine it with fats like olive oil, coconut oil, or avocado to help your body absorb it better.
• Drink Golden Milk or Turmeric Tea – Warm up some milk with turmeric and a fat source to create a traditional golden milk drink.
• Blend it into Smoothies – Add turmeric or curcumin powder to a smoothie with nuts or seeds for better absorption.
• Use it in Cooking – Sprinkle turmeric into soups, stews, or stir-fries to boost your daily intake naturally.

Supplementing with Turmeric: Do’s and Don’ts

Many turmeric supplements include piperine, a black pepper extract that helps your body absorb curcumin. But here’s the problem—piperine can be harsh on your system. It’s been linked to liver toxicity and can damage the gut lining, leading to leaky gut syndrome (a condition where toxins enter the bloodstream, similar to how gluten affects people with sensitivities).

So, is plain turmeric a better option? Not really. Turmeric root only contains about 2% curcumin, and even that tiny amount is hard for your body to absorb. Simply adding turmeric powder to your golden milk or smoothie won’t give you the full benefits.

A smarter approach? Focus on curcumin instead of turmeric powder. The key to better absorption is pairing curcumin with a healthy fat. This helps it get through the blood-brain barrier, a natural filter that protects your brain from harmful substances.

But not all fats are equal. The best choice? Omega-3 fatty acids. Known for their brain-boosting properties, omega-3s help deliver curcumin where it’s needed most. That’s why Cover Three’s formula is designed to combine curcumin with the right nutrients for maximum absorption and brain support.

Conclusion

Curcumin is one of the most powerful natural compounds for brain health, memory, and overall well-being.  At Cover Three, our carefully designed formula ensures that curcumin reaches where it’s needed most—your brain. 

Whether you’re looking to support cognitive function, fight inflammation, or maintain long-term health, curcumin is a science-backed way to give your body the support it deserves.

Curcumin Supplement FAQs

How potent is Curcumin?

Curcumin is the most active compound in turmeric, and responsible for its many health benefits. Supplements often contain a higher concentration of curcumin, whereas powdered turmeric has a relatively small amount of curcumin (~2%). If you're looking for a more potent source of curcumin for a specific health goal, a curcumin supplement may be more effective.

Is there a standard dose of Curcumin?

Curcumin supplements are usually standardized to contain a specific percentage of curcumin, typically 95%. This ensures a consistent and known amount of curcumin in each dose, which can be important for therapeutic use. In contrast, the curcumin content in powdered turmeric can vary widely.

Is Curcumin easy to digest?

Some people find curcumin supplements easier to digest than turmeric in its powdered form. Turmeric can be quite pungent and may cause gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals, especially when consumed in large quantities.

What is the most convenient way to take Curcumin?

Curcumin supplements are available in various forms, such as capsules or tablets, making them convenient for daily use. Turmeric, in its powdered form, can be less convenient to incorporate into your daily routine.