A new year often means a revitalised appetite for a new exercise regime. But the chilly, damp weather makes many of us feel like doing quite the opposite, as we feel the colder weather in our bones and joints.
For some, joint trouble in the winter can be as predictable as festive decorations coming down. Changes in pressure, humidity and temperature are believed to cause muscles and tendons to expand and contract, which can lead to stiffness and discomfort.
This can be a barrier to taking steps towards a healthy lifestyle. The NHS reports around 10 million people in the UK have a condition that affects their joints, most commonly in the knees, hands, wrists, shoulders, feet and back.
For some, joint trouble in the winter can be as predictable as festive decorations coming down
From genes to diet to lifestyle and even the weather, the influences on our musculoskeletal health are as complex and interconnected as our bones, muscles and joints. But one thing remains true and that is good nutrition is always essential.
A diet rich in fruits, dark leafy vegetables and oily fish brings helpful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. A growing number of people are also turning to turmeric-based products and nutritional supplements for extra support.
Turmeric has been prized for its health benefits in traditional Indian Ayurvedic therapies for thousands of years. Now, with its full potential revealed by modern science, this golden-hued spice has become one of the UK's most popular supplements.
But the science also reveals that not all turmeric supplements are created equal.
Many focus on one key active ingredient called curcumin – but miss out on a treasure trove of natural compounds present in turmeric root known as curcuminoids, (of which curcumin is just one) – and some of them are even more powerful.
Curcumin is also very difficult for our bodies to absorb, and unless it's made 'bioavailable', it can pass through the gut unused, even if we take lots of it. So whilst you may be tempted to rely on a pot from the supermarket spice aisle that you use for cooking, the chances are using this method will get very little of the good stuff to where your body needs it the most.
To overcome these challenges, scientists in Cambridge developed a unique supplement called Turmeric+ Gold featuring the world's most scientifically researched bioavailable curcumin formulation, and users are saying that restoring their joint health can be life-changing.
Jamesexperienced a major improvement aftertaking Turmeric+ for five weeks
Users of Turmeric+ regularly report positive experiences, like James Bomphrey from Hampshire, who suffered a serious sports injury to his knee as a young man. Later, he suffered hip problems and needed both hips replaced.
James was determined to stay physically active and kept cycling, swimming and skiing, while his job – a self-defence trainer for teachers and carers – was often physically intense.
But as he got older, he began to feel significantly less mobile, both at work and during exercise.
'When you can't do the things you used to do easily, it can affect your mood,' recalls James, now 62.
So when he read about Turmeric+ he was prepared to give it a try.
Turmeric+ Gold contains the full bouquet of curcuminoids found in natural turmeric root
'I was impressed with the evidence-based research,' he says. 'And it had helped others in a similar position to me.'
James soon experienced a major improvement – and its effect was more than physical. 'After taking Turmeric+ for five weeks, it really perked me up. I suddenly realised I felt different,' he says.
'I now look across the garden in the morning and think, what shall I do today? Taking this supplement has really helped me lead the life I want to, and I highly recommend it.'
Turmeric+ Gold was developed by FutureYou Cambridge, a British developer of innovative supplements backed by extensive scientific research.
Based in Cambridge, the company works closely with some of the world's leading scientific institutions, drawing on the knowledge and skills of top experts in nutrition and health.
While developing Turmeric+ Gold, they needed to overcome the key challenge with turmeric: making the curcuminoids much easier for our bodies to absorb. They wanted an alternative, better solution to the black pepper formulations so often used, one that would be rich in the full bouquet of curcuminoids.
So the nutritional experts at FutureYou Cambridge used a patented Curcuma Phospholipid Complex formulation called Meriva® that makes curcumin 30 times more absorbable than standard turmeric powder alone.
'Our advanced formulation works by using plant-based lecithin to mimic the way the body naturally absorbs curcuminoids after eating turmeric cooked with fat,' explains Dr Miriam Ferrer, PhD, from FutureYou Cambridge. 'But it delivers far more than you'd normally get from a meal – the equivalent of 150g (or 150,000mg) of raw turmeric in a single tablet.'
It's become the most scientifically researched bioavailable curcumin formulation in the world, featured in 45 human studies involving over 2,000 people, each confirming its effectiveness. It's also been recognised and certified by Informed-Sport for use by athletes.
Studies show the phospholipid formulation makes curcumin more bioavailable than black pepper-based turmeric supplements, as well as significantly longer-lasting in the body, allowing more time for the curcumin to be useful.
Unlike some other supplements, Turmeric+ Gold contains the full bouquet of curcuminoids found in natural turmeric root, including not only curcumin, but also bisdemethoxycurcumin (BDMC) and the most potent curcuminoid of all – demethoxycurcumin (DMC). Recent research suggests these other curcuminoids are also important for the health benefits associated with turmeric.
Since taking Turmeric+ Richard has been able to enjoy his running and cycling again
In a recent survey1 of 2,000 Turmeric+ and Turmeric+ Gold subscribers, a third reported a noticeable improvement between 2-8 weeks and 72% said that they felt it had improved their overall wellbeing and quality of life.
Like 57-year-old Richard Hamilton,a broadcast journalist for the BBC World Service since 1998, working as a correspondent in Morocco, South Africa and Madagascar.
Regular exercise and enjoying the outdoors has always been important to Richard, but persistent discomfort in his foot became a major obstacle.
'I was unable to do the things I enjoyed, like cycling to work, going to the gym and running,' recalls Richard. 'In truth, I found it a little depressing and I felt quite down in the dumps. I had to give up running altogether.'
Richard began researching ways of coping and turmeric supplements frequently came up.
'I started taking some from the high street but they had little effect. Then I found out about Turmeric+ and I liked the science behind it. I didn't know whether it would help but I thought I'd give it a try.'
After about a month, I tried running again and it felt just like it used to. It's fantastic. I take one a day and I'm enjoying running and cycling again.
'I'm so pleased and would recommend it to anyone.'
Since launching their original Turmeric+ supplement, FutureYou Cambridge has more recently created an even more advanced version of the supplement in Turmeric+ Gold. It's enhanced with vitamin C to support normal collagen formation for the normal function of cartilage, plus vitamin D (100% of our daily NRV) to maintain normal bones and muscle function, all in an allergen-free, easy-to-swallow vegan capsule.
'Vitamin D is essential for good bone health because it helps our body absorb calcium, advises Julia Thomson, a specialist nurse at the Royal Osteoporosis Society. It also keeps our muscles strong, which helps reduce the risk of falling as we get older.' At this time of year it is recommended that we all supplement with vitamin D, due to the lack of sunlight.
Liz's joint pain began to really limit her beloved walking until she started taking Turmeric+
Staying strong has always been important to 65-year-old Liz Singh, a retired chemistry teacher from Maidenhead, who discovered Turmeric+ in 2019 when she found herself struggling after a three-mile walk.
Liz loves taking long walks and it should have been an easy stroll. 'But the next day I felt a slight twinge in my left knee, which got progressively worse,' she remembers.
'I'd been planning a long walk to Bath, but it became so uncomfortable that I couldn't walk one hundred yards, let alone one hundred miles!'
'When my yoga teacher mentioned Turmeric+, I decided to give it a try, as I had nothing to lose,' she says.
'More than three years later I'm still taking Turmeric+ and I haven't looked back. I'm delighted to say I was also able to complete my walk.'
At 85 Bill has no plans on slowing down, and credits Turmeric+ with helping him stay active
Another devoted user is 85-year-old Bill Moore from Wakefield, great-grandad and champion swimmer, who still swims competitively. Over the years, Bill has won more than a thousand medals.
'I've been racing now for 36 years and I've travelled all over the world to swim. Forty British titles later and here I am, still swimming.'
'Turmeric+ has helped me stay active. I feel it's been very beneficial overall and wouldn't like to stop.'
Adam Cleevely, the Chair of FutureYou Cambridge says: 'We developed Turmeric+Gold to help people stay active and keep doing all the things they love, whether this be gardening, competitive swimming or chasing after their grandchildren. We know from the tens of thousands of people who take it every day and the feedback from our recent survey, just what a difference it can make to their quality of life.
'So we want to make it easy for people to try it for themselves and make a start on investing in their joint health. Simply pay £1.50 for the postage and we'll send you a 28 day supply of Turmeric+ Gold. I'm confident we'll hear more inspiring stories like those of James, Richard, Liz and Bill's.'
*Turmeric+ contains vitamin C which contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of cartilage and bones.
*Turmeric+ contains vitamin D which contributes to the maintenance of normal bones and the maintenance of normal muscle function.
1 Survey was emailed to 2000 Turmeric+ and Turmeric+ Gold subscribers of FutureYou Cambridge on the 29th November 2022.
How to claim your FREE trial pack
To claim your free 28 day trial pack of Turmeric+ Gold, visit https://futureyouhealth.com/tg89 and simply pay £1.50 postage when you sign up to a flexible monthly delivery service. Alternatively, please call us on freephone 0800 808 5740 quoting the code TG89.
After your free trial pack, subsequent packs containing 28 days' supply will cost £22 (including postage) and will be delivered every 28 days.
If you don't wish to continue after your trial, simply visit futureyouhealth.com to easily amend, pause or cancel your subscription without obligation. Alternatively call us free on 0800 808 5740.
For honest help and advice, our award-winning team is here, Monday to Saturday, 9am-5pm.
Offer valid until 31st March 2023. One use per customer. Offer cannot be combined with any other offers / discounts or used against existing subscriptions. Full terms and conditions available here.
If a subscription trial isn't for you, you can simply order Turmeric+ Gold and get £5 off
Redeem code TG27 at checkout to claim £5 off a one-off purchase of Turmeric+ Gold today.
Visit https://futureyouhealth.com/tg89 to shop this exclusive promotion. Alternatively, please call us on freephone 0800 808 5740 quoting the code TG27
FAQs
How long does it take for turmeric to work for joint pain? ›
When can you expect to see results? In one study, participants reported improvements in joint discomfort after supplementing with 2 grams of turmeric daily for 6 weeks. Another study reported results after 8-12 weeks of supplementation with 1 gram of turmeric daily.
How much turmeric should I take for joint inflammation? ›The Arthritis Foundation suggests taking turmeric capsules (400 to 600 mg) 3 times per day. Another option is to take a half to three grams of the root powder every day. Further studies revealed one gram of curcumin per day helped arthritis patients.
What is the best turmeric product for arthritis? ›Best Overall: Thorne Meriva 500-SF provides a dose of curcumin that is known to be well absorbed by the body and may reduce joint pain in people with arthritis.
Is turmeric scientifically proven to reduce inflammation? ›Turmeric has been used as a medicine for centuries to treat wounds, infections, colds, and liver disease. Studies have shown that curcumin, a compound in turmeric, may reduce inflammation in the body.
What is the best time of the day to take turmeric? ›Turmeric should be taken with meals to help with absorption. It's also a good idea to divide it into two doses taken 8 to 12 hours apart. This will help increase absorption and keep levels steady in the body.
Is turmeric better than glucosamine? ›Whereas glucosamine structurally supports connective tissue integrity within the joint, turmeric offers greater protection against joint-diminishing oxidative stress, inflammation, and enzymes.
What brand turmeric is best for inflammation? ›Best Turmeric Supplement for Inflammation: Swolverine Turmeric. Best Turmeric for Mental Clarity: KOS A Whole Latte Gold. Best Turmeric and Ginger Supplement: Zhou Turmeric with Ginger. Best Turmeric Supplement with Black Pepper: Swanson Turmeric with Black Pepper.
How quickly can turmeric reduce inflammation? ›And a recent analysis of research published in the Journal of Medicinal Food on turmeric extracts concluded that eight to 12 weeks of treatment with standardized turmeric extracts can reduce pain due to arthritis, compared with placebo.
Is it good to take turmeric everyday? ›When taken by mouth: Turmeric is likely safe when used short-term. Turmeric products that provide up to 8 grams of curcumin daily seem to be safe when used for up to 2 months, Also, taking up to 3 grams of turmeric daily seems to be safe when used for up to 3 months. Turmeric usually doesn't cause serious side effects.
What are the problems with taking turmeric? ›Turmeric in food is considered safe. However, taking large amounts of turmeric and curcumin in supplement form for long periods of time may cause stomach upset and, in extreme cases, ulcers. People who have gallstones or obstruction of the bile passages should talk to their doctor before taking turmeric.
How do I choose the right turmeric supplement? ›
A turmeric supplement should include a high concentration of curcumin plus an ingredient to help enhance its absorption by the body. A 2019 research paper suggests that taking curcumin with piperine, a compound found in black pepper, can help the body absorb more curcumin.
Does turmeric work for joint pain? ›Turmeric's main active component — curcumin — is what gives the spice its yellow color. Curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties, making it a potential treatment for a number of health conditions, including reduced pain and increased ease of movement in people with osteoarthritis.
Is there any evidence that turmeric helps arthritis? ›In recent years, turmeric has been said to be a viable treatment for arthritis, with studies finding that the substance (which is most commonly used in cooking), has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.
What is the Indian golden herb for joint pain? ›Turmeric. A golden spice that's long been used to lend color and flavor to foods, turmeric also has been used in ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for a variety of conditions, including arthritis and musculoskeletal disorders.
Can turmeric burn belly fat? ›Seema Singh, chief clinical nutritionist & HOD, Fortis Hospital, Vasant Kunj, told indianexpress.com, “Besides reducing inflammation associated with obesity, consumption of turmeric increases the metabolic rate which helps burn calories faster in the body. Turmeric water or turmeric tea can help you reduce belly fat.
When should you not take turmeric supplements? ›High doses of turmeric could have a blood-thinning effect; if taken on top of prescribed anticoagulants, this could increase the risk of dangerous bleeding. People with liver or bile duct problems should not take turmeric supplements, as they can increase bile production. Cooking with turmeric shouldn't cause problems.
Does turmeric interact with any medications? ›Taking turmeric supplements may put you at a higher risk of getting kidney stones. Don't take turmeric supplements if: You're taking aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil , Motrin ), or Acetaminophen (Tylenol ). Turmeric may lessen the effects of these medications.
What is the best joint supplement for seniors? ›Fish oil, SAM-e and curcumin are among the supplements with the best evidence to support them. The research on glucosamine and chondroitin, some of the most popular supplements for osteoarthritis, is mixed, but they may help with OA pain and stiffness.
How can I naturally lubricate my joints? ›Your joints' lubricating fluid allows your joints to move with more ease and less stress. To activate those juices, start your exercise routine with a gentle 5-10-minute warm-up and gradually increase your effort. Another good way to self-lube is drinking more water. Stretch regularly.
What supplements help stiff joints? ›Glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3, and green tea are just a few of them. Glucosamine helps keep the cartilage in joints healthy and may have an anti-inflammatory effect. Natural glucosamine levels drop as people age. Chondroitin is often used with glucosamine as an osteoarthritis treatment.
Is it better to take turmeric capsules or powder? ›
With turmeric powder, you are going to have to consume more of it in order to get the same amount of curcumin. This means that if you are looking for purely health benefits, it is best to simply take the supplements. They are far more concentrated, and get you the curcumin you need without the bloat.
What are the 10 serious side effects of turmeric? ›- Turmeric May Worsen Acid Reflux. ...
- It May Cause Stomach Upset and Indigestion. ...
- May Increase the Risk of Kidney Stones. ...
- May Lower Blood Sugar Levels. ...
- May Cause Liver Damage In High Amounts. ...
- May Interfere With Medications that Slow Blood Clotting. ...
- High Blood Pressure. ...
- Increased Risk of Bleeding.
Unfortunately, turmeric doesn't offer a quick fix, so you'll need to take it daily to notice results. If you were wondering how long it takes turmeric to work, this can vary from person to person. However, you should usually expect to start noticing improvements in around 4-8 weeks when taken daily.
Is 1000 mg of turmeric too much? ›Research indicates that turmeric doses of 500–10,000 mg per day may be effective. However, high doses are not recommended long-term.
Do turmeric pills work? ›The Science Behind Turmeric and Turmeric Extracts
Multiple studies have shown that taking higher doses of curcumin in supplement form — around 1,000 milligrams (mg) per day — had similar pain relief effects to taking a prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).
“Like other colorful plant-based foods, turmeric is rich in phytonutrients that may protect the body by neutralizing free radicals (pollution, sunlight) and shielding the cells from damage.” Diets rich in plant-based foods are associated with prevention of medical conditions such as cancer and heart disease.
Do doctors recommend turmeric? ›In fact, there is not enough reliable evidence in humans to recommend turmeric or curcumin for any condition, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Turmeric became a nutritional golden child partly because of its promise in laboratory studies — cellular and animal.
What is the best way to take turmeric for inflammation? ›The most effective way to take turmeric is with a liquid, such as in liquid shot form or even blended within a drink or smoothie.
Does turmeric raise blood pressure? ›Turmeric can also lower blood sugar and may enhance the effects of antidiabetic drugs or insulin ( 10 ). Since turmeric can lower blood pressure, it may have additive effects with antihypertensive drugs ( 10 ).
Is turmeric side effects liver? ›Turmeric and curcumin have been associated with a low rate of transient serum enzyme elevations during therapy and while having a long history of safety, turmeric products have recently been implicated in over a dozen instances of clinically apparent acute liver injury.
Can you take turmeric with high blood pressure? ›
With several prescribed medications available to keep blood pressure in control, we recommend including a sprightly cup of turmeric tea in your diet as one of the many ways to lower blood pressure naturally.
Is Qunol turmeric better than regular turmeric? ›Why Qunol is Better. Qunol's Extra Strength Turmeric Curcumin Complex has water dispersion technology which delivers superior absorption compared to regular1 turmeric. Regular turmeric is standardized unformulated curcumin extract. May help reduce temporary inflammation associated with physical overexertion.
How long should I take turmeric for inflammation? ›Turmeric products that provide up to 8 grams of curcumin daily seem to be safe when used for up to 2 months, Also, taking up to 3 grams of turmeric daily seems to be safe when used for up to 3 months. Turmeric usually doesn't cause serious side effects.
How long does it take for turmeric to build up in your system? ›So, how long does it take turmeric to work? Depending on your body mass and condition, it will usually take around 4-8 weeks for you to start noticing improvements to your body and mind.
Is turmeric good for bone joints? ›Besides diet and physical activity, recent studies confirm the positive effects of turmeric for bones and joints. This powerful spice has also shown positive results for bone healing and protection from disorders and formation of new bones.
What medication should be avoided with turmeric? ›Don't take turmeric supplements if:
You're taking aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil , Motrin ), or Acetaminophen (Tylenol ). Turmeric may lessen the effects of these medications.
High doses of turmeric could have a blood-thinning effect; if taken on top of prescribed anticoagulants, this could increase the risk of dangerous bleeding. People with liver or bile duct problems should not take turmeric supplements, as they can increase bile production.
What are the negative effects of turmeric? ›Turmeric in food is considered safe. However, taking large amounts of turmeric and curcumin in supplement form for long periods of time may cause stomach upset and, in extreme cases, ulcers. People who have gallstones or obstruction of the bile passages should talk to their doctor before taking turmeric.
Is it OK to take turmeric with other vitamins? ›Avoid using turmeric together with other herbal/health supplements that can also affect blood-clotting.
How do I know turmeric is working? ›Unfortunately, turmeric doesn't offer a quick fix, so you'll need to take it daily to notice results. If you were wondering how long it takes turmeric to work, this can vary from person to person. However, you should usually expect to start noticing improvements in around 4-8 weeks when taken daily.
How do you use turmeric for arthritis? ›
- Boil 2 cups of water with 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
- Let it simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Add lemon, honey, or milk to taste.
In two recent studies Turmeric was found to be more effective than Ibuprofen for post surgical pain and swelling and delayed muscle soreness, both were dosed between 1,500-5,000 mg per day. How Does Turmeric Work? Turmeric inhibits a protein and enzyme in the body that promote inflammation.