Investigation of the effects of solid lipid curcumin on cognition and mood in a healthy older population

Research Gist

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial examined how curcumin affects thinking and mood in 60 healthy adults aged 60 to 85. Because ordinary curcumin is poorly absorbed, the study used a solid lipid formulation designed for better bioavailability, providing roughly 80 mg of curcumin per day. The researchers looked at both a single dose and four weeks of daily use. One hour after a single dose, the curcumin group showed better sustained attention and working memory than the placebo group. After four weeks, working memory remained improved, fatigue after a demanding mental task was lower, and mood held up better under stress. Safety blood tests confirmed the formulation was well tolerated. The authors described this as the first study of curcumin's effects on cognition in a healthy older population.