The dose–response effects of hydrolyzed curcumin on recovery, inflammation, and oxidative stress following exercise‐induced muscle damage in males

This study investigated the effects of two dosages (750 mg and 1500 mg) of hydrolyzed curcumin on physiological recovery following exercise‐induced muscle damage (EIMD). In a randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind design, 34 recreationally active males (27 ± 6 years; 180 ± 7.3 cm; 82 ± 11.3 kg) were assigned to three groups: PLA (2 × 750‐mg/day placebo), LOW (1 × 750‐mg/day curcumin + 1 × 750‐mg/day placebo), and HIGH (2 × 750‐mg/day curcumin). Supplements were delivered in 15 mL gel sachets over 7 days, starting 48 h before EIMD. The EIMD protocol involved 8 sets of 10 repetitions at 110% of one‐repetition maximum on the leg press, with 5‐s eccentric phases and assisted concentric phases, targeting the quadriceps. Recovery was assessed pre, post, 24, 48, and 72 h post‐EIMD via the Free Oxygen Radical Test (FORT), creatine kinase (CK), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), isokinetic peak power, and a muscle endurance test (sustained isometric contraction at 50% peak torque). The HIGH group showed significantly greater reductions in pain, CK, FORT, and IL‐6 ( p < 0.05), but slower muscle endurance recovery at 24 h compared to LOW. Findings suggest a dose–response effect, with higher curcumin doses improving biochemical recovery but potentially impairing performance recovery.