MCT Oil (Medium-Chain Triglycerides)
- Enhanced Absorption of Curcumin: Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, is fat-soluble, which means it dissolves in fat rather than water. This property makes it poorly absorbed in the bloodstream when taken alone. MCT oil, being a fat, helps increase the absorption of curcumin by providing a suitable medium for it to dissolve. When curcumin is ingested with MCT oil, it is more easily absorbed by the intestines and enters the bloodstream, enhancing its bioavailability and effectiveness.
- Improved Brain Function: MCTs are rapidly converted into ketones, an alternative energy source for the brain. This can further support cognitive function and mental clarity, complementing the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits of curcumin.
Piperine (Active Compound in Black Pepper)
- Inhibition of Metabolic Breakdown: Piperine is known to inhibit certain enzymes in the liver, such as cytochrome P450 enzymes, that would otherwise metabolize curcumin. By slowing down the breakdown of curcumin, piperine effectively increases the amount of curcumin available in the bloodstream for a longer period.
- Enhanced Bioavailability: Studies have shown that piperine can increase the bioavailability of curcumin by up to 2000%. This dramatic enhancement means that even small amounts of turmeric can become significantly more potent when combined with piperine, maximizing its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Combined Effects of MCT Oil and Piperine on Turmeric
When MCT oil and piperine are combined with turmeric, they work synergistically to enhance the overall effectiveness of curcumin:
- Increased Absorption: The fat-soluble nature of curcumin makes it more absorbable when taken with MCT oil, ensuring that more curcumin reaches the bloodstream.
- Prolonged Presence in the Body: Piperine slows down the metabolic breakdown of curcumin, allowing it to stay in the system longer and exert its effects more effectively.
- Enhanced Efficacy: The combined effects of increased absorption and prolonged presence mean that curcumin can work more efficiently at lower doses, providing more significant health benefits, such as reducing inflammation, protecting against oxidative stress, and supporting cognitive function.
Take home!
MCT oil and piperine significantly enhance the benefits of turmeric by increasing the bioavailability and absorption of curcumin. This combination makes turmeric supplements more effective, allowing users to experience the full range of curcumin’s health benefits, from improved brain function to reduced inflammation. For vegans and those on plant-based diets, this combination also ensures they receive maximum benefits from their supplements.