Study Shows Higher Bioavailability of a Novel Form of Curcumin-Impregnated Fiber

Enhanced bioavailability was found in CurQfen-a novel form of curcumin, in which the curcumin is impregnated into a non-digestible soluble dietary fiber obtained from the common spice fenugreek. CurQfen’s enhanced bioavailability was presented in a study published in the January 2012 issue of the Journal of Functional Foods, according to the ingredient’s supplier Bioactives American Corp. (Highland Park, NJ).

Bioactives American said that the study showed enhanced bioavailability 15.8 times higher in humans. Traditionally, curcumin is an ingredient known for poor intestinal absorption in humans, passing through the gastrointestinal tract undigested due to hydrophobicity and insolubility at acidic pH.

“The compound, called BR213 curcumagalactomannoside, dispersions enhanced the bioavailability of curcumin 20 times (250 mg/kg dosage) in animals, and 15.8 times (1500 mg, equivalent of 600 mg curcumin) in humans,” the company said in a press release.

According to Bioactives CEO Mohamed Rafi, the novel fiber protects the curcumin against rapid enzyme degradation. “[The] curcumin-impregnated soluble fiber microgranules shows amorphous character and better hydrophobic-hydrophilic balance for swelling and slow release of stable-colloidal curcumin for improved absorption,” the company stated in its press release.

Bioactives currently markets patent-pending CurQfen, thanks to a trademark partnership with AKAY India.