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/
Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) Support Group.
I found some turmeric chews at Walgreens. I don't really know if they help but they make me feel like I am doing something and they taste good. I too have put turmeric and black pepper in my oatmeal for years.
Turmeric is high in oxalates and can cause calcium oxalate crystals in the kidneys and joints in some people. For that reason I avoid turmeric and eat only low oxalate foods. When I first got PMR I found out about Oxalate Arthritis and changed my diet in case that's what I had. Oxalates combine with calcium and stop its absorption into bones too.
This is interesting. I had a bout of kidney stones in my 50's (I'm now in my 70's), but have since focused on more hydration and have never had another. I've taken turmeric for over 10 years without any ill effects and it may have helped me recover from PMR, since I had such a mild case, it was hard to diagnose.