Abundant living with John Arts Abundant Health

Curcumin extracted from turmeric is possibly the most studied natural compound. There are research papers covering everything from its anti-antioxidant capacity, to it helping cancer defences, protecting brain cells against age-related problems, neurodegenerative problems and many more.  However, most research is focussed on its anti-inflammatory capacity.

Almost every chronic disease either causes or results in inflammation. While the inflammatory process is essential for healing, it can cause new problems or worsen existing problems.

Just think about this for a moment. Heart disease is inflammation of blood vessels leading to plaques. Inflammation is part of how cancer cells spread. All autoimmune disease is inflammatory. Neurodegenerative diseases including dementia-related conditions are inflammatory. All respiratory and allergic conditions are inflammatory. Most skin problems are caused or worsened by inflammation and osteoarthritis is, of course, inflammatory.

This is why most medical treatments for these conditions centre around reducing inflammation with everything from humble aspirin through to powerful steroids. Part of the problem is some people cannot tolerate medications, or they cannot use them long term; or in some cases increase they risk of other health problems.

For example I have a client who had battled tennis elbow for some time. While medications provided temporary relief he decided to add my curcumin and potent oligomeric proanthocyanidins – known as OPC – alongside Omega 3 fish oil  and an anti-inflammatory diet. After a  few months he reported his elbow was much better.

This should not surprise as multiple studies and research show curcumin helps to normalise several inflammatory processes, especially inflammatory cytokine and prostaglandin production. Curcumin acts as an immune system conductor restoring natural immune balance.

John Arts (B.Soc.Sci, Dip Tch, Adv.Dip.Nut.Med) is a nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health Ltd. For questions or advice, contact John on 0800 423559 or email: john@abundant.co.nz Join his newsletter at: www.abundant.co.nz