Author: blogs2025

  • Legal Industry Risk Index: 2025

    Legal Industry Risk Index: 2025


    For the legal profession, 2024 marked a dramatic shift for lawyers, as legal professionals embraced transformation at an unprecedented pace across technology adoption, risk management, and business strategy.

    Our newly released 2025 Legal Industry Risk Index, based on a comprehensive survey of 245 full-time legal professionals across the United States, reveals an industry that has found its footing in our new AI and technology-driven landscape and is confidently charting a bold new course forward.

    The AI Revolution Finally Arrived

    Perhaps the most striking finding is the legal industry’s complete about-face on artificial intelligence. After years of cautious skepticism, AI adoption exploded from a mere 22% in 2024 to an impressive 80% in 2025. Legal professionals didn’t just dip their toes in the water—they dove headfirst into strategic AI applications.

    This isn’t just about basic content generation anymore. Today’s legal professionals are using AI to enhance professional services, automate client support interactions, and more. The profession has officially gotten its “AI sea legs,” with confidence levels rising dramatically as practical experience seemed to take slight precedence over theoretical concerns.

    Risk Priorities Get a Complete Makeover

    The shifting risk landscape tells an equally compelling story. For the first time, financial pressures—which dominated legal professionals’ concerns for the last two years—have been dethroned. Reputational challenges and employment-related claims now tie for the top internal risk, reflecting the complex realities of managing modern law firms in an increasingly polarized social and political environment.

    External threats have evolved too. While inflation concerns that once kept 52% of legal professionals awake at night have reduced to 28%, new challenges around disruptive technology adaptation and professional liability threats have taken center stage.

    The Great Insurance Awakening

    Perhaps most telling is how legal professionals are responding to these shifts. Rather than retreating into defensive positions, they’re proactively strengthening their safety nets while simultaneously becoming more willing to take calculated risks.

    The insurance landscape transformation is remarkable: 45% of legal professionals are upgrading their coverage—a staggering jump from just 14% who had such plans the previous year. This isn’t panic buying; it’s strategic preparation. An impressive 77% now express confidence that their current insurance policies cover their greatest business risks.

    Confidence Meets Calculated Risk-Taking

    This newfound insurance confidence appears to be enabling bolder business strategies. Legal professionals are increasingly viewing risk through an opportunistic lens, with 37% now seeing risk as a pathway to growth—more than double the 18% who held this view just one year prior.

    The data reveals a profession that has moved beyond uncertainty paralysis. Where 41% of respondents were “unsure” about their risk response approach after facing challenges in 2023, that figure plummeted to just 4% in 2024. Legal professionals know what they’re doing and why they’re doing it.

    What This Transformation Means

    The legal industry appears to have reached a critical inflection point where technological adoption, strategic risk management, and protective planning are working in concert rather than competing for attention.

    The legal professionals who are thriving aren’t avoiding change—they’re anticipating it, preparing for it, and positioning themselves to capitalize on the opportunities it creates.

    The Complete Picture

    While these headline findings paint a picture of an industry in confident transition, they represent just the surface of our comprehensive analysis. The full 2025 Legal Industry Risk Index dives deeper into the specific applications driving AI adoption success, the nuanced factors behind the reputational risk surge, and more.

    Ready to see how your firm compares to these industry-wide trends? Get the complete Legal Industry’s 2025 Risk Index to access all findings, detailed analysis, and strategic insights that can help position your practice for success in this rapidly evolving landscape.

  • ,000 Charity Donation Deduction in the 2025 Trump Tax Law

    $1,000 Charity Donation Deduction in the 2025 Trump Tax Law


    Many charities advertise that donations are tax-deductible, but most people don’t deduct donations on their taxes. That’s because over 80% of taxpayers use the standard deduction, and they don’t get to deduct donations to charities when they don’t itemize. People donate because they support the cause, whether they get a tax deduction or not.

    I’m in the 80%. I don’t track my donations because I know I won’t deduct them.

    This will change in 2026.

    New Deduction When You Don’t Itemize

    Some of you may recall that Congress allowed people who don’t itemize deductions to still deduct a small amount of their charitable donations during COVID. It was originally a one-off $300 deduction in 2020 (see CARES Act 2020 Charity Donation Deduction: $300 or $600 for Married?). Congress re-created it with some tweaks as another one-off for 2021 (see 2021 $300 Charity Deduction When You Don’t Itemize).

    The new 2025 Trump tax law resurrected the 2021 version and raised the allowed amount from $300 to $1,000 ($2,000 for married filing jointly). It’ll be ongoing this time, starting in 2026 (not 2025), with no preset end date.

    All the other terms from 2021 are carried over to this new iteration. This deduction is only for people who take the standard deduction. The donations must be in cash, not necessarily physical cash, but not in household items, cars, stocks, bonds, mutual funds, ETFs, or crypto. Checks, card payments, and bank debits are all OK. The donations must be made directly to charities, not to a donor-advised fund.

    There’s no income limit or phaseout. All other requirements about charity donations still apply, including getting a written acknowledgment with all the required elements.

    Some places reported that this deduction is “above the line.” It’s not true. This new deduction doesn’t lower your AGI. It doesn’t make it easier for you to qualify for other tax breaks. It doesn’t affect state taxes.

    Lower Deduction When You Itemize

    If you itemize deductions, this new $1,000/$2,000 deduction isn’t available to you. You’ll continue to include your charity donations as itemized deductions on Schedule A. However, the new 2025 Trump tax law adds a floor for your charitable contributions deduction at 0.5% of your AGI, also starting in 2026 (not 2025), with no preset end date.

    This floor is similar to how the medical expenses deduction has a floor at 7.5% of AGI. It reduces the amount you can deduct by 0.5% of your AGI. For example, suppose your AGI is $100,000. 0.5% of $100,000 is $500. After this change goes into effect in 2026, when your total donations to charities add up to $4,000, you can deduct only $3,500 as an itemized deduction.

    Accelerating your planned donations in future years to 2025 will avoid having your deduction reduced by 0.5% of AGI each year.

    QCD

    The new 2025 Trump tax law didn’t make any changes to Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs).

    If you’re over 70-1/2, QCDs out of a Traditional IRA continue to be the best way to donate to charities. QCDs count toward the RMD, but they don’t raise your AGI. You don’t have to itemize to make QCDs. Nor are you required to reduce the amount by 0.5% of AGI. The annual limit for QCDs is 100 times higher than this new $1,000/$2,000 deduction for people who don’t itemize. It’s too bad that only those 70-1/2 and older can do QCDs.

    The only thing is that QCDs can’t go to a donor-advised fund. If you ask the IRA custodian to make payments to the charities, they’ll show a total as QCDs on the year-end 1099 form. Do them early in the year before you take any other distributions out of the Traditional IRA, including Roth conversions. Make sure the charities cash the checks before December 31.

    You can also write checks from your IRA and send them to charities yourself, but your IRA custodian won’t know which checks you wrote are QCDs. They won’t be able to indicate them as such on the 1099 form. You’ll have to keep track of them yourself and report what amount from the total distributions on the 1099 form was QCD.

    Naturally, because QCDs are excluded from your income to begin with, you can’t deduct QCDs again either toward this new $1,000/$2,000 deduction when you don’t itemize or as a part of the itemized deductions.

    Say No To Management Fees

    If you are paying an advisor a percentage of your assets, you are paying 5-10x too much. Learn how to find an independent advisor, pay for advice, and only the advice.

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  • Good Week Of Riding – BionicOldGuy

    Good Week Of Riding – BionicOldGuy


    I had a fun week of riding this week. Tuesday I went “round The reservoirs” and out and back on Casa Loma road with my group, a favorite local ride. This was on my upright wearing my SI joint belt and my SI tolerated it fine. I’m still doing well standing for longer periods of time a couple of times a week on the upright. I’ve also been able to walk a lot farther without issues. I’m glad of that because visiting my brother in Phoenix, or other times while traveling, I like to walk a lot when biking is not as convenient of an option.

    My other rides and upper body workouts all went well, except Wednesday when I became a little too preoccupied about my heart rate during the ride. It turns out I’d accidentally taken an extra dose of metoprolol the night before which was keeping my heart rate lower than the range I shoot for. What I enjoy most is a nice brisk steady state ride, which usually works out to an average heart rate in the vicinity of 110 for me. I’ve decided to concentrate on doing a lot more of these and cut back to one hard ride a week. This is very similar to the base training technique of Dr. Phil Maffetone, also known as the “MAF method” (for Maximum Aerobic Function). If I followed this to the letter I should actually omit the one hard day, but I want to maintain the strength and speed I already have while “building the base” on the other days. I did a “MAF time trial” on Friday, which is seeing how fast you can go on a course while staying at your target maximum heart rate, 110 for me. I rode a local course of just under 7 miles, which took 31 minutes 45 seconds (no electric assist). The idea is to repeat this once a month and if my aerobic capacity has improved the time should keep going down. It will be interesting to see how this turns out, but I can tell so far this is a very enjoyable way to train.

    Heading Up Casa Loma on Tuesday’s ride
    Riding In San Martin yesterday, looking SouthWest. The fog is rolling in over the Gavilan mountains, our Natural Air Conditioner.



  • 7 Thoughtful Quotes From Malcolm-Jamal Warner

    7 Thoughtful Quotes From Malcolm-Jamal Warner


    7 Thoughtful Quotes From Malcolm-Jamal Warner

    He will be missed.


    We are still mourning the loss of Malcolm-Jamal Warner, who went above and beyond his well known character as Theo Huxtable. He was recognized as an artist involved in poetry and music while sharing insightful commentary on Black culture that carried significant emotional and intellectual value with his audience. Warner openly discussed topics such as legacy preservation, personal identity, and dealing with loss on various platforms. These reflections offer a peek into his commitment to living a life based on honesty and purpose.

    1.) “The hood side, ultimately historically, is what has always created American culture.”

    Warner delves into how “the hood” serves as the cornerstone of mainstream culture on his podcast, Not All Hood: Here and Now Archive

    2.) “Black survival in of itself is Black excellence.”

    Warner questions the notion that success is only linked to achievements and emphasizes the determination and courage needed to conquer and overcome obstacles. 

    3.) “I will be able to leave this earth knowing—and people knowing—that I was a good person…with all of the darkness in the world—it is possible to maintain your soul and be a good person.”

    Warner appeared on the Hot & Bothered podcast and shared the importance of integrity and the value of staying true to one’s principles and moral convictions in challenging situations.

    4.) “If you’ve ever seen someone take their final breath, there’s this peace that comes over them.”

    Warner reflects on the memories of his grandfather and how their shared experiences shaped him as a person and developed his beliefs and character. 

    5.) “I remember my mother said, ‘Mr. Cosby gave you immortality…but then…there’s another lane of legacy that I get to leave.’”

    He shows his respect for his character Theo Huxtable from The Cosby Show and emphasizes the impact the character had on 1980s culture while also recognizing the lasting influence of his personal growth and charitable work outside of television.

    Warner talks passionately of experiences across the spectrum of Blackness, pointing out the richness and diversity present in Black communities and emphasizing the importance of presenting the multitude of viewpoints that reflect the true complexity in Black communities.

    7.) “Sweetness doesn’t make you weak—it makes you strong.”

    Warner looks back on how being compassionate and vulnerable can be sources of strength. He shares stories about Ennis Cosby’s kindness, resilience, and influence.

    RELATED CONTENT: Malcolm-Jamal Warner’s ‘Not All Hood’ Podcast Launches ‘More Than A Month’ Black History Series



  • DIY Lymphatic Salve For Lymph Drainage

    DIY Lymphatic Salve For Lymph Drainage


    Why do I keep a trampoline in my bedroom? No, it’s not for late night acrobatics. I use a rebounder to help support my lymphatic system. This lymphatic salve is another way I like to give the underappreciated lymph system some love. 

    If you’re feeling puffy, run-down, or sluggish your lymphatic system might be to blame. When this important drainage system isn’t clearing like it should, you may notice swelling, fatigue, or even stubborn skin issues. The good news? A little natural support can help it flow better.

    What Is the Lymphatic System?

    The lymphatic system is your body’s built-in waste removal and immune defense network. It carries lymph, a fluid full of immune cells, through vessels and nodes. This fluid then filters toxins, waste, and pathogens along the way. Lymph nodes act like checkpoints, trapping anything harmful so your immune cells can fight it off.

    Unlike your heart, which pumps blood automatically, the lymphatic system doesn’t have its own pump. It relies on movement, breathing, and muscle contractions to keep things flowing. Too much sitting, dehydration, or illness can slow it down. This causes fluid buildup, swollen nodes, and a sluggish immune response. If your lymphatic system isn’t getting the support it needs you can feel “off” long before swollen glands show up. 

    Gentle movement, massage, and herbs that support the lymphatic system can make a big difference. 

    A Lymphatic Salve

    Massage is a great (and relaxing!) way to stimulate the lymphatic system, and you can boost the benefits with a massage oil. One study even looked at two groups, one had massages with a lymphatic essential oil blend, the other with plain oil. The essential oil group had higher levels of immune cells afterwards, suggesting more lymphatic benefits. 

    There are several different herbs out there that support the lymphatic system, but these are the ones I chose and why. 

    Red Clover

    Red clover is a classic lymphatic herb known for keeping fluids moving and discouraging stagnation. It’s known as an alterative, a plant that gradually restores balance by clearing waste. Traditionally, it’s been used for swollen lymph nodes, cystic breasts, and even fibroids. 

    It’s gentle enough for long-term use and makes a great everyday tonic when you need to keep things moving without overstimulating the system. Because it has a hormone balancing effect on the body, it’s not the right herb for everyone. You can read more about red clover and precautions here. 

    Calendula

    Calendula’s bright orange flowers aren’t just pretty, they’re powerful lymph movers and immune tonics. Traditionally used as a winter herb in Europe, calendula helps clear out old, stagnant lymph and supports the immune system.

    It’s also known as a gentle “blood cleanser,” helping decongest swollen nodes and carry toxins out of the body. Herbalist Matthew Wood notes that its ability to drain fluids from wounds hints at its strong connection to the lymphatic system. 

    Arnica

    Best known for bruises and sore muscles, arnica also benefits the lymphatic system. It boosts circulation of both blood and lymph, helping clear waste from injured tissues faster. This makes it especially helpful for swelling, bruising, or trauma where lymph flow might be compromised.

    Arnica is best used topically and only on unbroken skin. When used correctly though, it’s excellent for moving fluid while calming inflammation.

    Violet

    Violet is a gentle lymphatic alterative that’s really helpful for stuck lymph and inflamed tissues. Both the leaf and flower are used here. Herbalists use it for skin issues like eczema and acne, especially when these are linked to lymphatic stagnation.

    Studies back up its traditional use. Some research shows violet extracts can calm an overactive immune system, which may explain its benefits for inflammatory skin issues. Violet is also used for swollen lymph nodes, fatty cysts, fibroids, and in breast massage oils. This herb is considered a gentle lymphatic, so it’s not as stimulating as some herbs. 

    Castor Oil

    Castor oil has been a go-to for lymphatic support for generations. Warm packs placed over the abdomen or other congested areas can temporarily increase T-11 lymphocytes. These immune cells help fight viruses, bacteria, and abnormal cells.

    Traditionally, castor oil packs have been used to support the liver, reproductive organs, and lymphatic drainage. Its key compound, ricinoleic acid, stimulates lymphatic vessels and helps carry waste out of tissues. Castor oil on its own is very thick and sticky, but it blends in beautifully with this lymph salve. 

    Essential Oil Blend

    Essential oils don’t just smell nice, they can add some potent health benefits. One study used a massage oil blend of diluted lavender, cypress, and marjoram essential oils. The control group used a plain massage oil. While both groups felt less stressed, the essential oil group had more lymphocyte cells after their massage. Specifically they had higher levels of cells that fight infections and attack cancerous cells.  

    Altogether these ingredients blend together to create an effective lymphatic massage salve. Here’s how to make it!

    DIY Lymphatic Salve

    This easy salve recipe uses natural ingredients to support the lymphatic system. Use it along with a lymph massage!

    Prep Time10 minutes

    Active Time3 hours

    Cooling Time1 hour

    Total Time4 hours 10 minutes

    Author: Katie Wells

    Herbal Infused Oil Ingredients

    Instructions for Herbal Infused Oil

    • Add all of the herbal oil ingredients to the top of a double boiler and heat over low heat for 2-3 hours. The oil should be very warm and the water in the bottom pot should be simmering. You can also use a heat safe glass bowl on top of a pot.

    • Replace the water in the bottom pot as needed.

    • Once the oil has darkened and smells like herbs, strain the herbs out.

    • Use the herbal infused oil in the lymphatic salve recipe below and save any extra for later.

    Instructions For Lymphatic Salve

    • Add the infused oil, beeswax, and mango butter to the top of a double boiler. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, just until combined.

    • Once everything is melted, stir in the castor oil and essential oils.

    • Immediately pour into your containers and allow the salve to harden.

    • Use the salve over lymph nodes for a lymphatic massage.

    Mix and match the herbs used here with whatever lymphatic herbs you have on hand.

    How to Use Lymphatic Salve

    To use the salve, apply to the skin and use light, featherlike strokes to massage over lymphatic points. Here’s more info on the lymphatic system, including resources for lymphatic massage. There’s a certain process for lymphatic drainage so that it’s the most effective.

    Which Herbs to Choose

    You can use almost any blend of dried lymphatic herbs in this recipe that you prefer. Cleavers and chickweed are also both great options. However, they can be harder to find unless you forage them in the spring. Mullein is another good lymphatic herb that has an affinity for the lungs. 

    Be sure to use dried herbs since fresh ones can add moisture to the oil and cause it to mold. If you’ve gathered fresh herbs yourself, here’s how to dry them for salve.

    Pregnancy Safety Note

    It’s generally not recommended to detox during pregnancy because of the negative effects it can have on an unborn baby. This salve contains ingredients that are not pregnancy safe and shouldn’t be used during pregnancy. However, gentle movement and supporting natural lymphatic drainage can be helpful. Check with your midwife first before doing lymphatic drainage like massage or dry brushing. 

    Final Thoughts on Lymphatic Salve

    Our lymphatic systems work quietly behind the scenes, but they need a little help to do their job. Movement, hydration, and gentle massage are important, and lymphatic herbs can add extra support.

    I love using this salve after a warm shower or with light massage when I feel puffy or run-down. I’ll often dry brush in the mornings before getting in the shower to get things moving even more. A little lymph massage is a simple act of self-care that can have big benefits.

    How do you support your lymphatic system? Leave a comment and let us know!

  • Four key ways for insurers to build resilience in a shifting trade landscape | Insurance Blog

    Four key ways for insurers to build resilience in a shifting trade landscape | Insurance Blog


    In the context of fractious global trade dynamics, businesses have no choice but to adapt their strategies for planning, pricing and protection. The interconnected nature of the global economy means that instability in one sector often has ripple effects across others.  

    Insurers are no exception to this with recent trade developments having introduced a more volatile environment also impacting both the demand for and the cost of providing insurance. US inflation is set for a potential increase of 0.8-2.8% while we might face a potential decrease in global Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of 0.3-3.9%. In addition, resulting higher US Treasury Yields mean the risk for a liability-asset portfolio mismatch can intensify for life insurers and shrinking reinvestment yields pressurize earnings. According to our calculations, just US households face potential additional yearly costs of $4900. 

    Life and P&C segments are particularly affected, with likely reductions in demand due to lower disposable incomes and reduced consumer spending. As insurers navigate these challenges, they are also grappling with reduced risk pools and lower premium appetites. Additionally, higher claims severity is leading to increased indemnity costs, and the volatility of financial results is adding another layer of complexity.  

    However, while the rising risks of inflation, GDP decline, and market confidence erosion may lead to softer demand, higher cost of claims, and increased volatility in the long term, these challenges also present opportunities for innovation. But above all, boosting their overall resilience will be critical for insurance companies as they navigate a shifting economic landscape and markets in flux. 

    Resilience as a gateway to opportunity 

    Resilience can be defined as a company’s ability to withstand and adapt to uncertainty and volatility, and to emerge stronger by building the capabilities needed for long-term, profitable growth. As the meaning of the word evolves, too many companies might remain anchored to outdated playbooks. We are witnessing a fracturing as a result, with the divide between strong and weak organizations widening. Resilience actually delivers its greatest value in times of disruption, with our research showing that the most resilient organizations outperform their peers during high-stress periods with faster revenue growth and higher profit margins.  

    There are four key areas that insurance executives will need to focus on to become more resilient: 

    1. Operational resilience: Operational efficiency is impacted by increasing competition, rising operating costs, evolving customer expectations and buying patterns, as well as the changing nature of risk. To maintain a competitive edge and improve overall business health, insurers should consider long-term, structural cost reductions by equipping their organizations with future-ready technology and operations. Embracing human and machine collaboration – through the integration of automation, data and AI with human insight – can elevate business outcomes and employee performance. 

    Building operational resilience also requires reinforcing supply chain resilience by implementing strategic changes in sourcing, procurement and network strategy, followed by a focus on reinventing cost and productivity through spend optimization. To optimize costs, improve efficiency and expand market reach, insurers could consider adopting strategies that leverage resources, services and capabilities from various geographic locations. This includes utilizing Global Capability Centers (GCCs) to access specialized expertise and drive cost-effective operations. Additionally, exploring innovative distribution models can streamline how insurance products and services are delivered to customers. For example, embedded insurance integrating policy offerings directly from e-commerce or travel platforms enables customers to purchase coverage without visiting an insurer’s website. 

    2. Commercial resilience: Develop a pricing and commercial strategy that can help navigate trade uncertainties by addressing cost absorption, price adjustments and the commercial structures that can support these changes, while exploring growth and M&A opportunities in a slower economic environment. Insurers are being forced to make quick, strategic decisions about which costs to absorb and which to pass on to customers. This comes against a backdrop of already rising claims costs and premiums for many insurance customers, particularly in auto and home insurance. By moving beyond transactional interactions and one-size-fits-all solutions to understanding customer preferences and offering innovative, behavior-based products and services, insurers can create new opportunities for sustained, profitable growth. 

    3. Technology resilience: The strongest performing businesses in this area have a focus on cybersecurity, AI and data capabilities. Insurers can accelerate their AI efforts to drive enterprise productivity, which should be accompanied by implementing a system to deploy autonomous agents to monitor real-time data and identify potential risks. Insurers should also introduce stronger safeguards and secure processes to account for geopolitical risks and cyber threats. AI and data analytics can transform customer engagement by processing large volumes of data to identify patterns and trends in customer interactions. To realize the full potential of AI, insurers will need to build a secure digital core supported by a simplified cloud infrastructure and powered by a robust data and model ecosystem.  

    4. People resilience: Last, but certainly not least, is the talent component. Insurers can make all the technology investments they want but without employees to interpret, apply and scale these tools, they could find themselves at a competitive disadvantage. To build an agile workforce, insurance leaders should implement a talent and recruitment strategy that offers and prioritizes continuous growth and diverse career paths to attract and retain highly skilled talent. With the industry facing a retirement crisis, reinforcing an employee value proposition that moves away from the perception of ‘tenured’ positions and manual task-oriented stagnant jobs to one that emphasizes the purpose-driven nature of the industry becomes critical. They can lean on AI to identify skills gaps and encourage their workforce to upskill and improve their digital dexterity. For example, AI can help underwriters work more efficiently by reducing the time dedicated to routine activities. As AI redefines the historical apprenticeship-based career path, insurers will be prompted to adopt new talent sourcing strategies that tap into external expertise across the spectrum of domain knowledge.  

    Resilience will be the key differentiator of the future 

    In a world of uncertainty, adaptive resilience is the most valuable corporate asset. While many would liken resilience to a mattress, using it to soften the landing or cushion the blow, it should act more like a trampoline, absorbing the impact and propelling the company forward, creating new value. Resilience is the key differentiator in any future scenario. It should be built as a cohesive, company-wide strategy, not in isolated silos. Companies that adapt and enhance their responses to policy changes would be better equipped to handle uncertainty.  

    For those looking to implement transformation programs to build more resilient businesses, it might be worth having a look at our latest insurance thought leadership that analyzed a variety of change programs across the industry. One key observation is that transformation needs to be precisely defined, tightly aligned to business outcomes and supported by decisive action. Small gaps in clarity, consistency and execution—compounded over time—could lead to large gaps over time. I am interested in your views on this topic – feel free to contact me on Linked in 

     

  • Why Long Term SIP Is the Smartest Wealth Strategy

    Why Long Term SIP Is the Smartest Wealth Strategy


    Most people don’t lose money in the markets because of bad investments. They lose it because they couldn’t wait.

    It starts innocently—a few months of average returns, a friend boasting about a better-performing fund, a headline predicting a crash. Suddenly, you’re switching SIPs, pausing investments, chasing trends. And just like that, your wealth-building journey takes a backseat.

    But here’s the secret the market doesn’t shout about: stillness wins.

    The investors who do the best aren’t the ones who move the fastest. They’re the ones who barely move at all. They pick good funds, set up their SIPs, and let time do what it does best—compound quietly. If you’ve ever wondered what separates consistent wealth creators from the rest, it often comes down to one thing: the discipline to stay invested for the long haul.

    That’s the quiet strength of a long term SIP—and the edge most people overlook.

    The Restless Investor: A Common Story

    Let’s say you’re investing ₹10,000 every month into a diversified mutual fund through SIPs. You’ve been consistent for 18 months. But:

    • Your portfolio hasn’t delivered the returns you were hoping for.
    • You come across a blog about a tech fund that’s recently outperformed.
    • You feel like you’re missing out and decide to switch.
    • A few months later, another fund is in the spotlight—and you switch again.

    At each step, you believe you’re making smart, informed decisions. But in truth, something else is happening.

    You’re breaking the compounding cycle every time you switch.

    This stop-start investing, driven by short-term returns and market noise, is quietly eroding the wealth you could have built. And it’s more common than you think.

    Here’s what many investors get wrong:

    • They treat SIPs like quick fixes, not long-term strategies.
    • They judge performance over months instead of years.
    • They confuse activity with progress.

    But the market doesn’t reward the most active investor—it rewards the most patient one.

    Wealth isn’t built by chasing trends. It’s built by staying put.

    Time and consistency do the heavy lifting. Every time you interrupt that process, you’re resetting your growth. That’s why a long term SIP strategy isn’t just good advice—it’s the only way real wealth gets built.

    Why the Market Rewards Patience

    Markets go through cycles—ups and downs, booms and crashes. In the short term, returns can be erratic. But zoom out, and the story changes. Over a 10–15-year horizon, equity SIPs have consistently delivered strong returns, often beating most traditional investment instruments. This is the essence of the long term SIP advantage.

    Let’s understand why this works:

    • Rupee Cost Averaging: When markets dip, you buy more units for the same investment amount. When they rise, your earlier investments grow. This averaging effect compounds over time, smoothing out volatility.
    • Compounding: The real engine of wealth creation. A small, consistent investment today grows exponentially when allowed to compound uninterrupted.
    • Behavioural Benefit: SIPs automate discipline. When emotion is removed from the process, decisions are no longer swayed by headlines or fear.

    But for this to work, you need one thing above all: the ability to stay still when your instinct tells you to act.

    Impatience: The Silent Portfolio Killer

    Let’s call out the real threat to your investment journey.
    It’s not market crashes.
    It’s not even choosing the wrong fund.

    It’s impatience.

    Impatience shows up quietly but costs you more than you realize. It creeps in when results feel slow, when markets fall, or when someone else seems to be earning more.

    Here’s how it typically plays out:

    • Switching funds too often – chasing last year’s winners instead of staying invested in quality funds.
    • Pausing SIPs during market dips – reacting to short-term fear, which locks in temporary losses and disrupts compounding.
    • Booking profits too early – walking away just when your investments are about to enter the real wealth-building phase.

    These may seem like harmless moves—maybe even smart ones at the moment. But done repeatedly, they chip away at your returns.

    What could have been a ₹1 crore corpus over 20 years?
    Gets cut to ₹50–60 lakhs because of these small, frequent detours.

    The Case for Long Term SIP: Real Numbers, Real Rewards

    Let’s break it down with a simple example.

    Suppose you invest ₹10,000 every month into a good-quality mutual fund through SIPs. The fund gives you an average return of 12% annually—which is quite reasonable for a long-term equity fund in India.

    Now, here’s what happens over time:

    Investment Duration Total Invested Approx. Corpus at 12% Return
    5 years ₹6 lakhs ₹8.1 lakhs
    10 years ₹12 lakhs ₹23.2 lakhs
    15 years ₹18 lakhs ₹50.5 lakhs
    20 years ₹24 lakhs ₹98.4 lakhs

    Let’s break that down further:

    • In 5 years, your ₹6 lakh investment grows to around ₹8.1 lakhs. That’s a decent start, but it’s just the beginning.
    • By 10 years, your investment almost doubles to over ₹23 lakhs. You’ve now invested ₹12 lakhs and earned more than ₹11 lakhs in returns.
    • At 15 years, the growth starts to feel real—₹50+ lakhs from a total investment of ₹18 lakhs.
    • And in 20 years, ₹24 lakhs invested becomes close to ₹1 crore. That’s more than four times what you put in.

    That’s not luck. That’s compounding—and time—at work.

    Why does this happen?

    Because in SIPs, the money you earn also starts earning. And when you stay invested for the long term, the effect multiplies. The last 5 years of a 20-year SIP usually create more wealth than the first 10 years combined.

    This is why we always say:

    The secret to growing wealth isn’t timing the market—it’s giving your investments time in the market.

    But here’s the catch: this only works if you stay invested. If you stop your SIPs midway or keep switching funds every few months, you reset the clock—and break the compounding chain.

    So if you’re wondering how people build wealth from ordinary incomes, this is how.
    They commit to a simple plan. They stay consistent. And they let long term SIP investing do its quiet, powerful work in the background.

    Stillness Doesn’t Mean Inactivity

    Being patient with your investments doesn’t mean ignoring them. It simply means resisting the urge to act for the sake of acting. There’s a big difference between thoughtful discipline and emotional inactivity.

    Smart investors build a system that works in the background—quietly but effectively. They don’t chase the market every day, but they don’t go on autopilot either. Here’s what that looks like:

    • Link Your SIPs to Specific Goals
      Whether it’s your child’s higher education, your retirement, or buying a home, tying investments to clear goals brings focus.
      When you know what you’re investing for, it becomes easier to stay calm during short-term market dips.
    • Monitor, But Don’t Constantly Interfere
      Keep an eye on how your funds are performing, but avoid tweaking them every time the market moves.
      Changes should be driven by meaningful reasons—like a long-term underperformance, a fund manager change, or a shift in your risk profile—not by daily headlines.
    • Stay Clear, Stay Confident
      The more you understand your portfolio—what you’re invested in, why you chose it, and how it’s aligned with your needs—the less likely you are to panic.
      Confusion invites fear; clarity builds patience.
    • Think Beyond Just One Timeline
      If you’re investing for multiple life goals—your retirement, a child’s wedding, a parent’s healthcare—you naturally develop a broader perspective.
      Thinking across 5, 10, and 20-year horizons helps you move from reactive to strategic behaviour.

    In short, stillness doesn’t mean doing nothing. It means doing the right things—and giving them time to work.

    Stories from the Quiet Compounding Champions

    Not all successful investors started with large sums of money. In fact, many of the most consistent wealth builders began modestly—with monthly SIPs of ₹5,000 or ₹7,500. What set them apart wasn’t how much they invested—it was how long they stayed invested.

    They followed one simple rule:
    Keep going. No matter what.

    Through all kinds of market events, they stayed the course:

    • Bull runs that tempted them to cash out early
    • Market crashes that tested their patience
    • Pandemics and global events that shook investor confidence
    • Political and economic uncertainty that caused temporary volatility

    While others paused SIPs, switched funds, or exited out of fear or excitement—these investors did something rare: they did nothing. They let time and compounding do the heavy lifting.

    And what did they gain?

    • Strong, steadily growing portfolios
    • Clarity and confidence in their financial journey
    • Most importantly, peace of mind

    They weren’t chasing the next best thing. They were building something bigger—financial freedom. Their story is a reminder that you don’t need to be perfect. You just need to be consistent.

    Why Staying Invested Feels Hard (But Isn’t)

    We look for instant results — one-click checkouts, 10-minute deliveries, and next-day success stories. Naturally, our minds get wired to expect speed.

    Investing doesn’t work like that. It’s slow. It’s quiet. It’s often boring. And that’s exactly why it works.

    So how do you stay patient in a system that rewards those who wait?
    Here are three habits that help build your ‘patience muscle’:

    • Turn off the noise:
      Resist the urge to check your portfolio every day. Markets rise and fall — let them. Daily movement doesn’t define long-term value.
    • Trust your plan:
      If your financial plan was thoughtfully made, it doesn’t need constant fixing. Stick with it unless your goals or income change significantly.
    • Celebrate milestones, not market moves:
      Your SIP turning 3 years old is a real achievement. Focus on progress, not headlines. That’s where wealth quietly grows.

    During Market Crashes, Patience Pays the Most

    It might sound counterintuitive, but some of the best mutual fund returns are born during market crashes — or just after. The key? You need to stay invested to benefit from the bounce-back.

    When volatility strikes, investor behaviour typically falls into three categories:

    • Most panic and exit.
      Fear overrides strategy, and people pull out money at a loss.
    • Some stay put.
      They ride out the storm, trusting the long-term fundamentals.
    • A rare few increase their SIPs.
      They see falling prices as a buying opportunity — not a threat.

    Guess who ends up building the most wealth?
    Not the smartest or the luckiest, but the most patient.

    Volatility isn’t a flaw in the system — it’s built into the journey.
    The rewards aren’t just for those who endure it… but for those who understand it.

    Final Thoughts: Let Time Do the Heavy Lifting

    The most underrated financial skill isn’t stock picking. It’s not timing the market either.
    It’s patience.

    The quiet discipline to automate your SIP, define your goals, and then step back — letting months turn into years, and years into wealth.

    You don’t need to outguess the market every quarter.
    You need to be consistent.

    • Stick to your plan.
    • Ignore the noise.
    • Let time and compounding do what they do best.

    There’s quiet power in staying still.

    Because real wealth isn’t built overnight — it’s built over time, through consistency, conviction, and the courage to wait when others rush.

    Author Avatar Prashant Gaur



  • Back To Basics with Progressive Overloading.

    Back To Basics with Progressive Overloading.


    Back To Basics with Progressive Overloading.

    February 27, 2021 –

    There can be a ton of confusion in the Fitness Industry when it comes to social media on what is the best program to follow to build muscle, get stronger, & make progress? And I totally get why it’s overwhelming.

    Back To Basics with Progressive Overloading.

    With swipe workouts on every post and people doing single leg squats off of railings, it can be overwhelming to know where to look to find a program that works for you.

    If I recall back to my 20 year old self, who was just making a dent in the lifting world, I used an old school bodybuilding website with a known trainer and followed her plan to a T.

    We did ALL the basics. Pull, push, squat, hinge, & rotate.

    And guess what….I saw a change.

    IMG_4021

    I built muscle, got stronger, & was progressing in my lifts.

    How did I do this? Progressive overloading.

    I can’t stress this enough with my clients in and out of the gym. In order to see change we need to create an increased stimulus.

    Progressive overloading is when you gradually increase the weight, frequency, or number of repetitions in your strength training routine.

    For example, if you’ve been using the same 5lb dumbbells for your bicep curls and you wonder why you’re not seeing bicep gains, it could be that it’s time to PROGRESS to the next dumbbell up, change the reps, or slow down your tempo.

    If right now you’re working out from home, and you’ve only got 1 pair of dumbbells you can make those dumbbells work & FEEL heavier but upping your reps and/or SLOWING DOWN your tempo (think up 1-2 and then down 1-2-3).

    IMG_4164

    You can also work on cleaning up your form as an increased stimulus.

    For example, I worked with my friend Sam on how to truly brace my core during exercises. This not only made the exercise feel entirely different but also way more stable, which caused an increase stimulus to my body.

    Now, you can also progressive overload by increasing your work in less time.

    Although, last year, I was in such a go-go-go mindset, that I was doing too much without being smart about it.

    There’s a difference.

    IMG_4270

    It doesn’t mean you have to do 50 burpees in between your bicep curls in order to “do more work” but maybe you shorten your rest period in-between your sets of bicep curls to add an increased challenge & stimulus.

    See the difference?

    I put together some of my BACK TO BASICS with my friends at adidas for you all to save for your next workout! These are the movements that I’ve come back to over the last year and my body feels GOOD & STRONG to stick to the basics and use progressive overloading.

    Heels Elevated Goblet Squats

    HEGS

    With the HEGS you are using a plate to have your heels elevated.

    IMG_4281

    By doing this variation, you are taking out any ankle mobility and allowing the knees and hips to go through full range of motion.

    Which is very important when you’re trying to take the lower back out of the equation and focus on proper hip mobility and stability.

    1 Arm Row

    1AR

    Often times when people perform a “row” they are bringing their shoulder up towards their ear and allowing their trap muscle to takeover, instead of their lat muscle.

    Focus on a slight stretch at the bottom of the movement to “open up” the lat, initiate by driving the elbow back and bring that weight towards your hip, not your ribcage.

    1/2 Kneeling Overhead Press

    1AP

    Talk about shoulder STABILITY! The 1/2 kneeling overhead press (especially with a kettlebell) will really bring your core mechanics into this movement to support the press. Keep your rib cage down, shoulder away from your ear, & elbow a bit in front of you facing forward to drive up to the top position.

    Overhead Carries

    OHW

    Again we’re looking for core stabilization here, keeping the rib cage down, & breathing during each step. This also will help with stabilizing the shoulder & creating a more secure foundation. Having the weight on one side versus both sides helps load into a single side at a time. You’ll want to repeat on both sides just like the row and press above.

    I hope these guides help you go back to basics & realize that there is not need to constantly reinvent the wheel with basic strength and muscle building.

    Stick to the basics, focus on progressive overload, & embrace the strength within you to create that stable foundation.

    I’m also living for this GREEN OUTFIT and you can find all of the details and links below!

    IMG_4040

    I was so pumped the adidas came out with a more “seamless” collection.

    I went with a Medium in the bottoms as I found them to be a bit more compressive & Large in the bra.

    I like my tops to not dig in so going up a size always seems to be more comfortable. The back detail on this bra is also super cute and more of a “longline” option.

    IMG_4044

    outfit details

    So excited to announce that I am now an Ambassador for adidas so you will be seeing more content this whole year! Thank you adidas, you rock.

    Be true to you always,

    xo Kasey



  • The Playbook I Used to Launch a Thriving 8-Figure Business — and How You Can Too

    The Playbook I Used to Launch a Thriving 8-Figure Business — and How You Can Too


    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    When I decided to launch a cold plunge company in Italy, I didn’t have much to work with — no team, no warehouse and nowhere in my home to shoot product content. But I believed in the product and knew wellness was a booming category. I’d built companies before, including an e-bike brand that hit eight figures in sales. This time, I relied on a lean repeatable system — and it worked.

    Here’s the approach I used to get traction quickly without a massive ad budget or complicated launch strategy.

    Pick a product people are already curious about

    You don’t need to invent something new. In fact, it’s often better if you don’t. I saw cold plunges picking up steam with athletes, biohackers and wellness creators, but the category hadn’t gone fully mainstream yet. That meant there was room to stand out.

    I looked at search trends, scrolled through niche subreddits, followed what health influencers were posting and paid attention to what products were crossing demographic lines — things like collagen for men or hormone tracking for women. The goal is to find something visual, results-driven and culturally relevant that solves a real problem.

    Source simply, improve later

    Finding a supplier doesn’t need to be a bottleneck. I started with a Chinese manufacturer. The quality was solid but slow communication and long shipping times made me rethink things. Eventually, I moved production to Italy to improve logistics and offer better customer service.

    In the early stages, don’t obsess over perfecting every feature. Focus on sourcing a product that’s reliable and good enough to start selling. Keep order quantities low and build systems that let you test, learn and iterate.

    Use real people to build trust

    Instead of burning cash on ads right away, I turned to influencers. I sent cold plunge units to athletes and fitness creators I respected. Some posted quickly; others waited until they had personal results. That authenticity worked in our favor.

    Start with creators who already talk about your niche. It’s not about follower count — it’s about fit. Give them something worth sharing and let them speak in their own voice. One well-timed video or post can outperform a five-figure ad campaign.

    Related: Your Follower Count Is Irrelevant When It Comes to True Influence — These Are the Criteria That Really Matter

    Add credibility by aligning with experts

    In wellness, consumers are skeptical — and rightly so. That’s why I built an expert panel featuring doctors, physiotherapists and sports scientists who believe in the power of cold therapy. They contributed content and lent their names to the brand.

    You can replicate this by reaching out to professionals who already talk about the benefits of your product type. Offer to feature them, link to their work and collaborate on educational content. It’s a win-win: they get exposure and your brand earns instant trust and SEO value.

    Launch fast with a simple store

    When it came time to sell, I built a clean Shopify store with clear product descriptions, a few solid photos and no overthinking. The goal was to start taking orders and gather real feedback — not chase perfection.

    Over time, I added customer reviews, expert endorsements and better visuals. But I didn’t wait to launch. Starting fast, let me test pricing, messaging and demand in real-time.

    Final thoughts

    Launching a wellness brand doesn’t have to be complicated. You don’t need a groundbreaking product, a huge team or an investor-backed ad budget. What you do need is a product people care about, a smart sourcing plan, trust-building partnerships and a store that gets the job done.

    This playbook helped me grow one business to eight figures — and it’s now fueling the early success of another. Different product. Same system. Still works.

    Ready to break through your revenue ceiling? Join us at Level Up, a conference for ambitious business leaders to unlock new growth opportunities.

    When I decided to launch a cold plunge company in Italy, I didn’t have much to work with — no team, no warehouse and nowhere in my home to shoot product content. But I believed in the product and knew wellness was a booming category. I’d built companies before, including an e-bike brand that hit eight figures in sales. This time, I relied on a lean repeatable system — and it worked.

    Here’s the approach I used to get traction quickly without a massive ad budget or complicated launch strategy.

    Pick a product people are already curious about

    The rest of this article is locked.

    Join Entrepreneur+ today for access.

  • Curcumin and Piperine Together Improve Sepsis Outcomes

    Curcumin and Piperine Together Improve Sepsis Outcomes


    Sepsis is characterized by an overwhelming immune response to an infection, resulting in widespread inflammation, organ failure, and frequently, death. Each year in the United States alone, more than 1.7 million adults are diagnosed with sepsis, and approximately 350,000 of these cases are fatal, highlighting how urgent, life-saving treatments are needed.1

    Antibiotics and painkillers are usually administered to a patient once sepsis is confirmed. However, these come with side effects. To find effective solutions, doctors are turning to plant sources rich in anti-inflammatory compounds, namely curcumin. Research has shown that this molecule, found in turmeric, can turn the tide against sepsis. Furthermore, it actually works better when combined with piperine — the active ingredient in black pepper.

    Curcumin and Piperine Rapidly Reduce Sepsis-Related Inflammation

    A study published in Trials by Iranian researchers investigated how effectively curcumin, combined with piperine, reduces inflammation among critically ill patients diagnosed with sepsis. The team aimed to understand if daily supplementation using these two natural compounds would lead to measurable improvements in patients’ inflammatory markers and outcomes compared to a placebo group.2

    Participants included 66 adult sepsis patients in the intensive care unit (ICU). They were randomly assigned to two groups — the control population received standard care plus placebo tablets while the test group received standard care plus 500 milligrams (mg) of curcumin and 5 mg of piperine.

    Inflammation drastically reduced in the test group — After just seven days of treatment, significant differences emerged between the two groups. The patients who received curcumin and piperine experienced a remarkable 30.81% reduction in C-reactive protein (CRP), which is a biomarker that doctors use to gauge inflammation. In contrast, the placebo group’s CRP levels barely budged, dropping by only around 3.15%.

    Another critical inflammation marker substantially improved — The test group saw erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) levels decline by roughly 34.29% to 37.36% compared to an insignificant reduction of only 2.02% in those taking the placebo. For context, ESR typically reflects ongoing inflammation in the body, so a large reduction signals that the treatment effectively halted or reversed inflammatory processes fueling sepsis.

    Other crucial biomarkers also shifted positively — In the test group, levels of bilirubin (an indicator of liver function), hemoglobin (oxygen-carrying capacity of blood), hematocrit (the percentage of red blood cells in blood), and platelet counts all showed movement toward healthier ranges. Each of these improvements represents progress toward recovery, as sepsis frequently damages multiple organ systems simultaneously.

    Interestingly, despite these marked improvements, standard ICU severity scores like Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) — both used to evaluate sepsis progression and severity — did not show significant changes during the weeklong treatment window.

    In other words, while inflammation decreased dramatically, the overall picture didn’t shift as dramatically yet, signifying that extended treatment periods or combinations with other therapies might be needed for full recovery.

    The curcumin-piperine combination is safe to use — Safety is often a primary concern for ICU patients, whose bodies are already under intense stress. Importantly, no adverse effects or negative reactions were reported throughout the study duration, reinforcing curcumin and piperine’s safety profile even in critically ill, fragile individuals. For patients and their families, this provides valuable reassurance that incorporating these compounds into a treatment regimen is unlikely to cause harm.

    Inflammation is managed better — Curcumin acts by directly suppressing inflammatory signals, particularly by inhibiting NF-κB and Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) pathways. These are responsible for triggering excessive inflammatory responses that cause severe tissue damage seen in sepsis. When curcumin steps in, inflammation halts before it can wreak irreversible havoc on vital organs.

    Even Curcumin Alone Already Protects Against Sepsis

    While the combination of curcumin and piperine fights sepsis effectively, a meta-analysis published in BioMed Research International noted that curcumin alone protects you from sepsis. Researchers reviewed 12 studies using animal models, examining how effectively curcumin protects vital organs and increases survival rates after septic episodes.3

    All experiments created sepsis using methods that mimic dangerous infections common in human ICU patients. Researchers primarily focused on sepsis induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a toxic compound that triggers powerful inflammation, and cecal ligation and puncture (CLP), which simulates severe abdominal infections. By recreating these serious conditions, the researchers were able to clearly assess how well curcumin helped mitigate the damage.

    Curcumin dramatically boosted survival rates among treated animals — In some cases, rates jumped as high as 90%, compared to only 40% among animals who didn’t receive curcumin. Such a stark increase in survival underlines the compound’s extraordinary ability to combat sepsis-related damage.

    Improvements in organ function were observed across multiple studies — Animals receiving curcumin experienced significantly less damage to their lungs, kidneys, heart, and even brain. Lung protection was particularly notable, with treated animals showing markedly reduced fluid buildup (pulmonary edema), a common and deadly complication of severe sepsis. This means curcumin could help maintain clear breathing and effective oxygen exchange, directly impacting survival.

    Liver function showed remarkable improvement — In untreated septic animals, enzymes like aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT) — which doctors measure to evaluate liver health — typically soared. But in animals treated with curcumin, these enzyme levels stayed much closer to normal, indicating significantly less liver damage.

    Curcumin administration was a critical factor — Animals that received curcumin shortly after the onset of sepsis had the most significant improvements and highest survival rates. For example, one of the studies included in the analysis noted that sepsis-induced lung injury was reduced within 24 hours.

    Curcumin suppresses inflammatory cytokines — The researchers explain how curcumin works to impede the inflammatory process:4

    “[C]urcumin acts as an anti-inflammatory by inhibiting reactive oxygen species generation via inhibiting oxidative stress, regulating cytokine production as a result of which it blocks the oxidation process reducing inflammation, and reducing inflammatory cells infiltration at different organs and tissues.”

    The blood-brain barrier is repaired — The researchers noted that curcumin boosted blood-brain barrier integrity “by attenuating brain edema, decreasing apoptosis, and reducing mitochondrial dysfunction in septic mice.”

    Dosage influences outcomes — The researchers observed that administering higher doses resulted in better survival rates:5

    “Septic rats treated with curcumin showed increased survival rates, approximately 80% when treated with 50 mg/kg curcumin and 90% when treated with 200 mg/kg curcumin compared to septic untreated animals, which showed 40% of survival, suggesting that the survival rate may be related to the administered dose.

    Furthermore, animals treated with curcumin before LPS injection had reduced lethality, an improvement directly related to curcumin dosage.”

    Golden Milk — A Tasty Way to Get Both Curcumin and Piperine

    Piperine is the primary active component in black pepper. Now, you’re probably curious why it’s combined with curcumin — research has shown that that it helps increase curcumin’s bioavailability by a whopping 2,000%.6 That said, I recommend you drink golden milk, as it’s also filled with other health-boosting nutrients compared to just taking a curcumin/piperine supplement.

    Research confirms golden milk’s benefits In one study, adding black pepper to golden milk showed that curcumin, together with piperine, addressed the symptoms of metabolic syndrome in 117 study subjects who exhibited both oxidative stress and inflammation. Results showed that there’s a significant improvement in oxidative and inflammatory markers.7

    Curcumin and piperine are a potent combination — Research shows that piperine enhances the assorted benefits of curcumin, and even works synergistically to manage oxidative stress and inflammation.8

    Black pepper has its limitations — However, black pepper isn’t the only answer, as another study showed that piperine interacts with certain enzymes that metabolize drugs, leading to an increased risk for adverse health effects.9

    Another Lifesaving Protocol Against Sepsis

    Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that can affect anyone, so it’s important to arm yourself with the knowledge to combat it. That said, in addition to the curcumin/piperine combo, another lifesaving intervention is intravenous (IV) vitamin C with hydrocortisone and thiamine (vitamin B1).10

    An effective sepsis treatment protocol — It was developed by Dr. Paul Marik while working as a critical care doctor at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital in Norfolk, Virginia. Based on Marik’s experience, his protocol has reduce mortality by nearly fivefold.11

    Detractors are not successful — Expectedly, some people have tried to discredit Marik’s protocol, even if it has already saved lives. In March 2022, for example, an Australian Ph.D. candidate named Kyle Sheldrick contended that the success of Marik’s intervention was based on fraudulent data, which was published in the CHEST Journal. An investigation was launched, and the editors of the publication deemed that there were no methodological errors.12

    Marik’s protocol helped save lives — In Marik’s retrospective before-after clinical study,13,14 findings showed that patients who were given vitamin C, hydrocortisone, and thiamine for two days had reduced mortality from 40% to just 8.5%. Out of the 50 patients in the review, only four died, and those stemmed from underlying diseases, not sepsis.

    As for the specifics, Marik used 200 mg of thiamine every 12 hours, 1,500 mg of ascorbic acid every six hours, and 50 mg of hydrocortisone every six hours.15 This was so effective, Sentara Norfolk General Hospital subsequently made the protocol its standard of care for sepsis.

    Vitamin C and corticosteroids have a synergistic effect — This combination is what makes the protocol effective against sepsis. Even then, a high dose of IV vitamin C alone is already helpful in boosting the survival of sepsis patients and acute respiratory failure.16

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Curcumin, Piperine, and Sepsis

    Q: What is sepsis, and why is it so dangerous?

    A: Sepsis occurs when your body’s immune system responds too aggressively to an infection, causing widespread inflammation and potential organ failure. Over 1.7 million Americans get sepsis each year, and about 350,000 of those cases are fatal, making rapid treatment crucial.

    Q: How can curcumin and piperine help if I have sepsis?

    A: Research shows curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, significantly reduces inflammation markers associated with sepsis. When combined with piperine (from black pepper), curcumin becomes much more effective because piperine boosts its absorption, making it highly beneficial in rapidly reducing severe inflammation.

    Q: Are curcumin and piperine safe for critically ill patients?

    A: Yes. Clinical studies confirm that taking curcumin and piperine is safe, even for critically ill patients in intensive care. Patients experienced no adverse side effects during treatment.

    Q: Is curcumin effective even without piperine?

    A: Yes, even curcumin alone strongly protects against sepsis-related damage. Animal studies showed survival rates jumped from 40% up to 90% with curcumin treatment alone. Curcumin significantly protected vital organs such as the lungs, liver, kidneys, heart, and brain from severe inflammatory damage.

    Q: How else can I naturally fight sepsis and reduce inflammation?

    A: Besides curcumin and piperine, a proven lifesaving intervention for sepsis is intravenous (IV) vitamin C combined with hydrocortisone and thiamine (vitamin B1). Developed by Dr. Paul Marik, this vitamin protocol dramatically reduces sepsis mortality and is now used widely due to its effectiveness and safety.