Turmeric May Help Improve Oxygen Levels and Blood Flow in the Brain

The brain needs a constant supply of oxygen. Aging tends to reduce cerebral oxygenation and cerebral blood flow. According to a new study, supplementation with turmeric may help improve oxygenation and blood flow in the brains of mature adults.

Participants in the study included 12 adults with an average age of 70. They were given 10 grams of turmeric root extract or a placebo prior to completing an exercise intervention. Participants switched interventions after a one-week washout period. The researchers measured heart rate and blood pressure before supplementation and 2 hours after. Cerebral oxygenation and blood volume were evaluated during the exercise intervention.

The researchers found that changes in cerebral oxygenation were 42% higher after turmeric supplementation compared to placebo. Changes in blood volume were 54% higher after turmeric supplementation. No significant differences were seen for blood pressure or heart rate.

The study was conducted by researchers from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro. It was published online ahead of print on September 22, 2021 in the International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition.

A previous study found that ketones may help improve blood flow in the brains of obese people.