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So you’re wanting to boost your health with supplements.
The great news is there are plenty of awesome supplements that’ll fit the bill.
2 solid options that you might be aware of are Turmeric and Moringa. I’m here to help you decide which one is best for you.
In my super duper Supplement Comparison Series, I take two supplements and break them down based on cost, benefits, drawbacks and more. Hopefully, by the end of this post, you’ll have a better idea of which one to take.
In this piece, we’ll take a look at Turmeric vs Moringa.
Let’s get to it.
What is Turmeric?
Turmeric, aka the golden spice is a tall plant that mainly grows in Asia.
It’s one of the most powerful, mood boosting, anti-inflammatory ingredients that most people should be using.
The turmeric you see in the supermarket is made from the roots of the plant, and it’s this form that’s used to make curry powder.
What is Moringa?
Moringa (Moringa Oleifera) is an ancient tree native to India, Pakistan and Nepal that also grows in the tropics.
Now what’s unusual about Moringa is that pretty much the whole plant is used for health promoting properties.
In other words, the roots, seeds, leaves, stalk, bark, etc. are all used to improve people’s health.
Why is this unusual?
Well, normally only one or two parts of a plant are used for health purposes.
(The root of Maca for example.)
Moringa is sometimes referred to as the miracle tree thanks to its awesome medicinal properties.
Benefits
Benefits of Turmeric
Turmeric may improve cognitive function
Recent research has shown that neurons can multiply and increase in numbers in certain parts of the brain.
A major component to this interesting phenomenon is a hormone called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF).
Interestingly, a component found in Turmeric called Curcumin has been shown to increase levels of BDNF in the brain, which may improve mental function. (Source)
Turmeric may reduce inflammation
Inflammation comes in 2 forms:
- Acute
- Chronic
Acute inflammation is short-term inflammation that happens after an injury.
It’s a way of signalling to your body that something needs healed.
Chronic inflammation is long-term inflammation that builds up over time from living an unhealthy lifestyle.
This is the type of inflammation you want to avoid like the plague, as the following conditions have been linked to chronic inflammation:
- Stroke
- Cancer
- Alzheimer’s
- Heart Disease
Turmeric is rich in many anti-inflammatory compounds, including Curcumin. (Source)
In fact, research suggests its anti-inflammatory effects are like that of an anti-inflammatory drug.
(Related reading: 3 Best Fish Oil Supplements For Inflammation)
Turmeric may help lower oxidative stress
Excess free radicals can lead to oxidative stress, which is thought to play a key role in aging and many serious diseases.
Antioxidants are great at reducing oxidative stress as they help neutralise free radicals.
Thanks to its chemical structure, Curcumin acts as a potent antioxidant which may help protect your body from free radicals.
But what’s even more impressive is that Curcumin improves your body’s own antioxidant capabilities. (Source)
Benefits of Moringa
Moringa may lower blood sugar levels
High blood sugar levels are dangerous to your body.
So to combat this, your body pumps out a ton of insulin which can lead to sudden drop in blood sugar.
This can make you feel tired, irritable and lethargic.
The best way to avoid feeling like this is to keep your blood sugar levels stable.
According to research, Moringa may help lower blood sugar levels.
In one study, subjects who took 7g of daily Moringa for 3 months had their fasting blood sugar levels lowered by 13.5%.
Moringa is rich in antioxidants
Like Turmeric, Moringa has an impressive antioxidant profile, meaning it may help reduce oxidative stress.
The following antioxidants are found within Moringa:
- Vitamin C
- Quercetin
- Beta-Carotene
- Chlorogenic Acid
Interestingly, Moringa can boost antioxidant levels in your blood too. (Source)
Moringa may help lower inflammation
Another similarity Moringa has with Turmeric is its anti-inflammatory properties.
Moringa is rich in compounds called isothiocyanates which are believed to be powerful anti-inflammatories.
Moringa may help lower Cholesterol
One of the risk factors of cardiovascular disease (CVD) is high cholesterol levels.
So by lowering your cholesterol levels, you should be at less risk of developing CVD.
According to research, Moringa may be effective at lowering cholesterol levels.
Cost
Turmeric Cost
Turmeric is normally sold in capsules.
For a mid-range supplement, you can expect to pay around $20 for 120 capsules.
Moringa Cost
Moringa is usually sold in capsules or as a powder.
Some typical prices for these are:
- Powder: $20 for 1 lb
- Capsules: $10 for 100
Side Effects
Turmeric Side Effects
Most healthy adults tolerate Turmeric supplements with minimal fuss.
But some folks may experience nausea, dizziness or upset stomach.
Moringa Side Effects
Like Turmeric, most people can supplement with Moringa with very few problems.
But those taking blood sugar lowering medications should discuss with a doctor before using Moringa.
Recommendations
My Turmeric Recommendation: Nature’s Nutrition Turmeric
Overview
High-strength? Yep.
Fair-priced? You betcha.
Highly-absorbable? Mhmm.
Nature’s Nutrition Turmeric ticks all the boxes.
What I like about it
A key feature of this supplement is that the Turmeric’s mixed with Bioperine.
Interestingly, Turmeric mixed with Bioperine is believed to be absorbed 2000x better than standard Turmeric!
(Bioperine is a special type of Black Pepper extract by the way.)
Another awesome feature is that extra Curcumin has been added to the Turmeric.
As covered earlier, Curcumin is responsible for many of the health benefits that Turmeric has to offer.
Also, a quick glance at the reviews tells you that this is an epic Turmeric supplement that’s used and loved by many people just like you.
Potential Drawbacks
Some users have reported feelings of warmness after taking these capsules.
Check price and read more reviews of Nature’s Nutrition Turmeric on Amazon.
My Moringa Recommendation: Organic Spice Resource Moringa Leaf Powder
Overview
An epic Moringa supplement in powdered form.
An ideal choice if you like the freedom to choose how much Moringa you want to take.
What I like about it
I love that this supplement is pure Moringa powder.
That’s right…
No junk fillers or preservatives you need to be cautious of.
Just 100% Moringa goodness.
And even better, the Moringa used is organic meaning it was made how nature intended without the use of nasty chemicals.
Also, the fact that it’s a powder means you can chop and change the dosage to meet your individual needs.
This is handy as some of you will see better results from a lower dosage, while other will do better with a higher dosage.
Potential Drawbacks
As it’s powdered, you have to actually taste the Moringa which may put some of you off.
But this isn’t a deal breaker by any means.
You can always just mix it with your favorite juice if you dislike the taste.
Check price and read more reviews of Organic Spice Resource Moringa Leaf Powder on Amazon.
Turmeric vs Moringa: The Verdict
Well, I hope this Turmeric vs Moringa breakdown has helped you decide which of the 2 supplements you’re going to take!
These are both great supplements and either would be a good choice.
But if you’re still undecided, then here’s how I’d make my recommendation:
You might prefer Turmeric if:
- You want to improve your cognition
You might prefer Moringa if:
- You want to lower your cholesterol levels
- You want to lower your blood sugar levels
Hope this helped!
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