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Curcumin (turmeric) for reducing inflammation
Since PMR is a disease featuring elevated inflammation levels in the body, it seems logical to search for ways to reduce those levels. Prednisone, of course, is the main prescription drug used to curb inflammation, but diet and some supplements can also be helpful. I have had two bouts of PMR and am currently in remission, but I continue to follow a diet featuring fruits, vegetables and any other anti-inflammatory foods of which I am aware. In addition to diet, one dietary supplement appears to stand out for fighting inflammation and that is curcumin, also known as turmeric. I began taking 1,000 mg. daily of this supplement while my PMR was active and have continued to do so since I achieved remission. I believe it has been helpful both in reducing inflammation and keeping it down. Here is a link to an NIH discussion on the effects of curcumin on inflammation. I hope this is helpful and wish everyone a speedy and long-lasting remission. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8572027/
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I agree that turmeric is a good choice. But tried it and found that it irritated my stomach. I have been using MSM which is known to be anti-inflamatory (down regulates IL6) instead without a problem. Research indicates that we release cytokines about 4:30 in the morning so it makes sense that the earlier you take it, the better.
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1 ReactionHere's a link to a Mayo Clinic statement on the benefits and potential side effects of using turmeric that may be of interest:
https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-q-and-a-turmerics-anti-inflammatory-properties-may-relieve-arthritis-pain/
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3 ReactionsWhat is MSM?
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1 ReactionMSM is an anti-arthritis suppliment that is used for all mammals and is GRAS. (Generally regarded as safe.) It stands for Methylsulfonylmethane and provides a sulfer source for your body. (Which is in pretty much every cell of your body.) It has been tested for use up to 4 grams at once. I take 3 grs every day without problems. I have used it for my dogs and horses for years with good results. Often using it to overcome lameness problems in my horses. There a lot of good, scientific articles about its anti-inflamatory effects out there. I take the same one I give my animals but they make it for people, too.
It's a supplement purported to reduce inflammation. It's available from companies who sell vitamins and other dietary supplements. I also tried it when my PMR was active, but couldn't notice any benefits. Here's a link to a WEB MD article about MSM:
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/msm-methylsulfonylmethane-uses-and-risks
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2 ReactionsCurcumin is supposed to be good for reducing inflammation and hopefully joint pain. How do you find curcumin(turmeric extract) works for you or doesn’t work? thank you for your response!!!
Hi Linda,
I moved your question about curcumin to this existing discussion where you can read the previous tips and resouces from PMR members and connect with them here:
- Curcumin (turmeric) for reducing inflammation: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/curcumin-turmeric-for-reducing-inflammation/
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1 ReactionThank you very much Colleen! The information that I read was extremely helpful to me!!!
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