Can Bromelain and Curcumin be taken at the same time?
Find out if bromelain and curcumin can be taken at the same time, or if they are best taken separately.
Bromelain with curcumin
Short answer: Useful in the same plan
While not found to provide additional benefits when taken at the exact same time, research has shown that bromelain pairs well with curcumin.
Also taken with curcumin, for synergy and increased absorption
Bromelain is known to significantly improve the bioavailability and absorption of curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric. Curcumin by itself is notoriously hard to absorb, and is often paired with piperine (found in black pepper) for the same reason.
However, not only does bromelain improve curcumin's bioavailability, but they both share potent anti-inflammatory properties, and have been shown to work together to reduce pain and swelling, and are studied for their effect on inflammation.
Also taken with bromelain, for inflammation and infections
It has been found that bromelain, an enzyme found in pineapple, substantially increases the bioavailability of curcumin when both are taken together.
Furthermore, one recent study actually found that there is a possible synergistic effect when bromelain is paired with curcumin, in this case looking at respiratory infections such as COVID-19, and another study looked at the same combination in osteoarthritis, with inflammation, pain and disease progression all among the measures.
Timing is everything
Many supplements are dependent on being taken at the right time, or with the right meal, for proper absorption. For example, fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamin D should be taken together with a high-fat meal. Stimulating supplements, such as rhodiola or ginseng, should avoid being taken too late in the day.
The perfect match
Some supplements are known to complement each other when taken together, either because one helps the other to be absorbed, or because their effects compliment each other. Well known combos include vitamin D3, vitamin K2 and magnesium, or quercetin and bromelain, but there are many others.
Incompatibilities
Likewise, some supplements can compete for absorption or react negatively if taken together. For example, calcium and magnesium compete for absorption, so they are best taken several hours apart, and fiber-heavy supplements such as psyllium husk should be taken by themselves, separate from all other supplements.
Potential additions
The Vitamin Plan will automatically detect if there is a recurring theme in the supplements that you are taking, and suggest a focused addition or two for that theme. For example, if your plan seems to be mostly centered around joint health, it may suggest adding glucosamine or collagen if you didn’t add them yet.
Remember
A balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle always come first, and supplements are meant to be just that: supplementary. While every effort has been made to ensure that the data on this page is accurate, said accuracy can never be guaranteed. The information provided is not medical advice, it is not intended to cover all possible interactions or adverse effects, and neither is it a substitute for the expertise of professional healthcare practitioners. You are always encouraged to do your own research, and to consult with your trusted doctor or pharmacist before taking any supplements.
