The spice turmeric has been used in Indian cooking and traditional medicine for thousands of years. ¹

There is some evidence from epidemiological studies that populations that regularly consume turmeric have lower rates of Alzheimer’s as well as better-preserved cognition. ²

A large body of scientific evidence reveals that turmeric’s benefits are mainly attributable to the compound known as curcumin.

Research shows that curcumin helps prevent processes that drive aging and chronic disorders, including cell senescence and chronic inflammation. ^3-5

The overall effect may be to improve healthy longevity.

The Power of Curcumin

Curcumin is a yellowish pigment found in turmeric, a plant in the ginger family.

In studies, curcumin intake has been shown to extend lifespan of diverse species, from roundworms to mice.^6-11 In a study of fruit flies, for example, it increased the average lifespan by 26%.⁹

In addition, research suggests it can help in the management of many conditions including metabolic syndrome, elevated lipids, arthritis, and more.¹²

A number of studies have found that curcumin supplementation led to improvements in cognition and memory. ¹³

How does curcumin deliver its benefits? Science has identified several drivers of aging and chronic disease. Curcumin affects many of them^3-5 in ways that improve health.

Protecting Telomeres

Every strand of DNA in our body has protective end caps, called telomeres, that help maintain the stability and function of the genetic material.

As we age, these telomeres shorten. When they are too short, the cell becomes dysfunctional or die. Shortened telomeres limit regeneration and stem cell function.

Telomerase is an enzyme that builds up the length of existing telomeres.

Curcumin has been shown in preclinical studies to give a boost to this anti-aging enzyme. It can enhance the expression and activity of telomerase, increasing the health and life of cells. ^14,15

Support Brain Function

Research has identified specific brain benefits for curcumin.

In animal studies, curcumin has been shown to:^16-18

• Form new neurons in the hippocampus,
• Improve performance on memory tests,
• Reduce neuroinflammation, and
• Protect against memory loss.

But the benefits of curcumin go beyond just neuroprotection.

Fighting Glycation

Glycation occurs when sugars attach to proteins, fats, or nucleic acids, causing deleterious structural and functional changes. It is a major contributor to accelerated aging and many diseases of older age.^19,20

This process even occurs in people with normal blood glucose. In diabetics and prediabetics, glycation is accelerated, leading to faster aging and higher risk for chronic disorders.

Preclinical studies have shown that curcumin protects cells and tissues from the damage caused by glycation. ^21-25

One team of researchers has shown that, in cell culture models, curcumin can also block harmful effects when glycation has already occurred, preventing the inflammation and cellular dysfunction caused by advanced glycation end products.²⁵

Reducing Senescent Cells

As cells age, some become senescent. These cells are dysfunctional and emit protein degrading enzymes but refuse to die off to make room for healthy cells. Senescent cells also secrete inflammatory compounds that damage surrounding tissues.²⁶

Curcumin has demonstrated senolytic activity in preclinical studies,^27,28 which means it has the potential to reduce the number of senescent cells in tissues. In other similar models, it has also been shown to help favorably modulate the secretion of inflammatory compounds from these cells.⁴

Regulating Vital Proteins

Maladaptive activity of various essential structural and functional proteins in cells has been tied to accelerated aging, metabolic abnormalities, and chronic inflammation.^3-5

Curcumin modulates their activity in ways that reverse age-related changes and protect cells against age-related damage. It can:^3-5

• Inhibit nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kB), a protein complex associated with chronic inflammation,
• Reduce activity of mTOR, a protein linked to rapid aging and metabolic abnormalities that contribute to chronic disease,
• Boost activity of AMPK, an enzyme that supports healthy metabolism,
• Enhance function of sirtuins, proteins critical for maintaining health and longevity, and
• Support activity of Nrf2, a protein that regulates the body’s defenses against oxidative stress.

Other Anti-Aging Mechanisms

There are many more anti-aging actions of curcumin. Among other benefits, curcumin:

• Acts as a potent free-radical scavenger, helping to prevent the oxidative stress that accompanies most age-related chronic disease,²⁹
• Triggers production of the body’s own antioxidant enzymes, ^3-5
• Reduces chronic inflammation,³ another driver of aging and age-related disease,
• Supports healthy mitochondrial function,³⁰ and
• Activates autophagy, cellular “house-keeping,” to rejuvenate cells and keep them functioning optimally.³¹

These and other actions can help reduce risk for disease and prevent accelerated aging.

Summary

Curcumin is a potent anti-inflammatory compound.

Research over the last few decades reveals that curcumin favorably influences known contributors to aging and chronic disease.

In animal studies, curcumin extends lifespan while reducing risk for many age-related disorders.

If you have any questions on the scientific content of this article, please call a Life Extension Wellness Specialist at 1-866-864-3027.

References

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