VitaHealth Turmercumin Capsule

VitaHealth Turmercumin Capsule is a turmeric herbal supplement from VitaHealth, a Malaysian supplement brand. Each vegetable capsule provides 450mg of turmeric (Curcuma longa root), made up of 275mg of turmeric extract standardised to 95% curcuminoids and 175mg of turmeric root powder. Combining a standardised extract with whole-root powder gives a defined amount of curcuminoids alongside the other natural constituents of the turmeric root.

Curcuminoids, of which curcumin is the best known, are the yellow polyphenol compounds that give turmeric its colour and are the most studied constituents of the root. Turmeric has a long history of use in Asian cooking and traditional practice, and curcumin is being researched for its antioxidant properties, although evidence from human studies is still developing and results vary between products. Curcumin on its own is poorly absorbed from the gut; this formula does not contain black pepper extract (piperine), so it is a turmeric-only product.

The capsules are made with a vegetable capsule shell, and VitaHealth lists the product as Halal and suitable for vegans. The manufacturer’s directions are one capsule twice daily after meals for adults, and the product is available in packs of 60 vegetable capsules. It may suit adults who wish to add a standardised turmeric supplement to a balanced diet, but it is not a substitute for medical treatment, and anyone taking regular medicines should speak to a doctor or pharmacist first.

Swallow one capsule whole with a glass of water after a meal, twice daily, or as recommended by your doctor or pharmacist. Taking the capsule after food may help reduce stomach discomfort. Do not take more than the recommended amount, and read the product label before use.

Adults: 1 capsule twice daily after meals (2 capsules a day, providing 900mg of turmeric in total), or as recommended by a doctor or pharmacist.

This product is intended for adults. Do not exceed the recommended daily intake. If you miss a dose, simply take the next capsule at the usual time; do not double up to make up for a missed capsule.

Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep the container tightly closed after each use and keep out of reach of children. Please also follow any storage instructions printed on the product label.

• Common: Mild stomach upset, nausea or indigestion.
• Common: Acid reflux, bloating, diarrhoea or constipation.
• Uncommon: Yellow staining of the stools is harmless and relates to the natural colour of turmeric.
• Serious (rare): Liver injury has been reported with some turmeric and curcumin supplements — stop taking the product and seek medical advice if you notice unusual tiredness, loss of appetite, dark urine, or yellowing of the skin or eyes.
• Serious (rare): Allergic reactions such as rash, itching, swelling of the face or difficulty breathing — stop use and seek urgent medical attention.

• Known allergy or hypersensitivity to turmeric, curcumin or other plants of the ginger family.
• Gallstones or bile duct obstruction — turmeric may stimulate bile flow, so do not use unless advised by a doctor.
• Existing liver disease or a history of liver injury from herbal supplements, unless approved by a doctor.
• Pregnancy — turmeric in supplement amounts (beyond normal food use) is not recommended during pregnancy.
• Children, as the product is intended for adults.

• Anticoagulants and antiplatelet medicines (e.g. warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel): curcumin may increase the risk of bruising or bleeding — speak to your doctor before use, and stop at least 2 weeks before planned surgery unless advised otherwise.
• Diabetes medicines (e.g. metformin, sulfonylureas, insulin): turmeric may lower blood glucose and add to the effect of these medicines — monitor blood sugar and consult your doctor.
• Medicines that reduce stomach acid or affect the liver: discuss with a pharmacist, as curcumin may affect how some medicines are processed by the liver.
• Iron supplements: turmeric may reduce iron absorption; people with low iron levels should space doses apart and seek advice.
• Other turmeric or curcumin products: avoid taking several turmeric-containing supplements at the same time to prevent excessive intake.

• Take the capsules after meals to help reduce the chance of stomach upset.
• Spread the two daily capsules across the day, for example after breakfast and after dinner.
• Check the labels of your other supplements to avoid doubling up on turmeric or curcumin.
• Tell your doctor or dentist that you take turmeric before any surgery or dental procedure.
• If you have diabetes or take blood thinners, speak to your doctor or pharmacist before starting.
• Stop and seek medical advice if you develop yellowing of the eyes or skin, or dark urine.

Precautions: Turmeric is generally well tolerated at the recommended amounts, but natural products can still cause side effects and interactions. Use with caution if you have diabetes, a bleeding disorder, stomach ulcers or acid reflux, gallbladder problems or liver disease. Information on safety during breastfeeding is limited, so breastfeeding mothers should consult a doctor first. Stop taking the product at least 2 weeks before planned surgery unless your doctor advises otherwise.

When to See a Doctor or Pharmacist: Speak to a doctor or pharmacist before use if you take blood thinners, diabetes medicines or several other medicines, or if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding. Stop taking the capsules and see a doctor promptly if you notice signs of liver problems (unusual tiredness, nausea, loss of appetite, dark urine, yellowing of the skin or eyes), unusual bruising or bleeding, or signs of an allergic reaction.