Just Ask Terry

Terry is happy to provide his opinion on diet and nutrition, supplements and lifestyle choices. This information is for educational purposes only. It is not meant to replace the advice of your physician and is not to be considered medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Should you have any concerns please contact your physician directly.

Q. Hi Terry, “What is the difference between turmeric and curcumin? I was wondering if I would get the same health benefits by just putting turmeric on my food as I would from taking a supplement.” — Robert R. Oklahoma City, OK

A. Dear Robert, Turmeric refers to the spice that is made from the root of the turmeric plant. It contains several active compounds, including curcumin, which is the compound that has been shown to have the greatest benefits for health. However, generally turmeric contains less than 5% curcumin, which is the most medicinal compound. While adding turmeric to your food is certainly a great idea, it may well be too weak and too poorly absorbed to be used as a natural medicine. It you are trying to address a specific health concern (pain, Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, etc.) I recommend looking for curcumin as a supplement instead of turmeric. And because curcumin is also poorly absorbed, look for a formula that contains standardized amounts of micronized curcumin with essential turmeric oil, as this special form has been shown to be absorbed up to 10 times better than taking regular curcumin products. However, if you still want to put some extra turmeric spice on your food, go right ahead and enjoy! It is good for you!

Healthy regards!

Terry . . . Naturally