Black pepper extract (piperine)

Tier 3 — weak evidence · Bioavailability · Absorption enhancer

Dramatically increases the absorption of many supplements including curcumin (by 2,000 percent), CoQ10, resveratrol, and beta-carotene. Works by inhibiting liver and gut enzymes that normally break down these compounds. Already included in many curcumin products as BioPerine. Warning: the same mechanism that boosts supplement absorption also increases absorption of prescription medications, which can cause overdose effects.

Dose: 5–20 mg/day piperine (BioPerine); WARNING: increases absorption of many medications — check interactions