I am almost certain that there have been more studies carried out on turmeric’s anti-cancer properties than any other natural ingredient, ever! Specifically, it is the active compound curcumin found in turmeric that produces its well documented benefits. Sadly, curcumin it has poor bioavailability, meaning the body struggles to absorb and utilise it effectively.
To enhance absorption, people commonly combine turmeric or with black pepper and even add a third ingredient - raw coconut oil (virgin, cold-pressed) and this trio is famously known as Golden Paste.
While Golden Paste has been a staple in many natural households for years, there something healthier, better and safer than black pepper, and that is, the superior… lecithin. Lecithin is a natural fat found in foods like eggs, soy, and sunflower seeds. It plays a key role in brain function, digestion, liver and skin health!"
Additionally, many of you will have seen the incredible benefits of Turmeric, Lecithin and Raw Coconut Oil, mixed and applied topically to produce SuperHeal. The recipe is and will always be free on the Augustine Approved website on the SuperHeal product page.
SO why is Lecithin is a Better Activator of Turmeric Than Black Pepper?
Here’s why:
1. Lecithin Improves Fat-Soluble Absorption
- Curcumin is fat-soluble, meaning it needs fats to be absorbed properly.
- Lecithin contains phospholipids, which help emulsify curcumin, making it easier for the body to absorb through the digestive system.
- This mimics how liposomal supplements work, encapsulating curcumin in fat molecules for better uptake.
2. Black Pepper Has Side Effects
- Piperine in black pepper enhances absorption by inhibiting liver enzymes, which can interfere with the metabolism of other medications.
- Some dogs and humans experience digestive irritation or allergic reactions to black pepper.
- Lecithin, on the other hand, is gentler on the stomach and liver while still boosting absorption. In fact, it is particularly healthy for the liver.
3. Lecithin Supports Brain & Liver Health
- Lecithin contains choline, which supports brain function, liver health, and fat metabolism, which is an added bonus alongside turmeric’s anti-inflammatory effects.
- Black pepper on the other hand, does not offer these extra health benefits.
4. Lecithin Works Naturally With the Body
- The body naturally uses phospholipids (like those in lecithin) to transport nutrients across cell membranes.
- This mimics the body’s own mechanisms, making curcumin more bioavailable without disrupting digestion or liver function.
Lecithin Wins!
While black pepper can boost turmeric absorption, lecithin is a safer, more efficient, and health-boosting alternative—especially for dogs! It enhances bioavailability naturally, it supports brain and liver function, and is gentler on digestion.
Now as you know, there’s quality and then there’s quality, and if you’ve followed me for a while you’ll know that I don’t mess around when it comes to the health of my dogs. I scoured the earth to find the very best of each ingredient, and you will always find the very best turmeric and lecithin (sunflower) in Augustine’s SuperBoost… but did you know, that when you feed Augustine’s SuperBoost to your dog mixed well into food with raw coconut oil, you are in fact feeding the highest grade Golden Paste possible!