Effect Of Turmeric Supplementation On Inflammation And Recovery

Overview

The supplementation industry has increased exponentially in recent years, with over half of adults reporting to consume supplements on a regular basis. Supplements are often marketed to achieve a outcomes, such as “immune support” or “pain releif”. However, the scientific evidence underpinning the majority of supplments on the market is sparse.

There is emerging evidence that curcumin can support aspects of health and recovery from exercise by reducing inflamation. Curcumin is found in high concentrations in turmeric root, making this an intriging dietary target to achieve these benefits. Recent work from our laboratory has shown that supplementing professional footballers with a turmeric-containing supplement can reduce a blood marker of inflamation and reduced perceptions of soreness (Clayton et al., 2023; Frontiers in Nutrition; https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2023.1175622), and combining turmeric with other active ingredients (such as vitmain D and vitamin) may reduce illness symptoms. This early evidence suggests that turmeric, possibly combined with other active ingredients, may be a effective way to reduce inflammation, accelerating recovery after exercise and reduce time lost due to injury and illness.

This project is an exciting collaboration between Nottingham Trent University and The Turmeric Co., which will study the effects of turmeric-containing supplements on inflammation and recovery. This PhD will aim to increase knowledge and understanding of turmeric as an aid to reduce inflammation and pain, as well as explore potential mechanisms of action. The PhD will also aim to investigate novel supplement formulations and explore their utility in a range of target populations.