Black pepper is used in just about every corner of the world to spice up meals, but did you know it might also be a great way to support overall wellness? Black pepper contains piperine, which is a compound that not only gives the spice its unique flavor, but it’s also thought to have some health benefits. Let’s take a look at what piperine is and what health benefits are associated with it. 

What is Bioperine? 

BioPerine® is an extract that derives from piperine. What makes BioPerine special is that it contains about 95% of piperine and enhances bioavailability of certain nutrients by increasing thermogenesis. Thermogenesis then allows for an increase in absorption of those nutrients. 

Due to its characteristic ability to support a greater absorption of certain nutrients, it’s found in many supplements today to help enhance their absorption. 

Benefits of BioPerine

BioPerine is designed to help increase absorption of key vitamins and nutrients, which means the potential benefits are plentiful. 

The first benefit linked to BioPerine is its improved absorption. A study published in the National Institutes of Health states that BioPerine “stimulates thermogenic action in the epithelial cells of the small intestine.” This means that thermogenesis stimulates the digestive system to work a little more when consuming food in order to better absorb nutrients. 

BioPerine may be beneficial for people who suffer from malnutrition or who have conditions that reduce the body’s ability to properly absorb nutrients from their food. As always, consult your doctor prior to starting any new supplements. 

The second benefit linked to BioPerine is that it may help lessen inflammation. If you suffer from inflammation for a prolonged period of time, it can have an adverse effect on your health.

According to a study published in the European Journal of Pharmacology, piperine may help decrease lymphocyte communication inside the immune system, which slows them down. This could be the reason why it’s thought to help decrease inflammation.

Should You Take BioPerine? 

BioPerine and piperine are not generally considered harmful. However, it may increase the absorption of pharmaceutical drugs, which could alter their effectiveness. The best thing to do before starting any dietary supplement is evaluating your overall health with the help of a doctor and figuring out what works best for you. Always ask how supplements may interact with your medications. 

Whatever your health and wellness needs may be, we at KAL Vitamins work hard to create supplements that may support your lifestyle needs. Going strong for 90 years, KAL started on the principle of helping others feel their best. That’s been our goal these past 90 years and will continue to be the driving force behind our work: supporting you in life's journey so you can feel your best, at every stage of your life.