Randomization, blinding and intervention
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BLIND
Eligible participants were randomly divided into either placebo or treatment (CUR) groups. While the CUR consisted of 500 mg curcuminoids +5 mg piperine (95%); C3 Complex (Sami Labs Ltd.), the placebo capsules contained inert filler (500 mg lactose powder) plus 5 mg piperine (Bioperine®, Sami Labs Ltd.). Bioperine® as bioactive alkaloid is purified extract obtained from With the intent of ensuring the triple‐blind design, CUR and placebo capsules were matched in shape, size and color, and the color of placebo (microcrystalline cellulose) was matched to that of CUR powder. The CUR and placebo powders (labeled as “code A" or “code B") were dispensed in identical blinded bottles. The Pharmacy Department of the Birjand University of Medical Science performed the randomization and blinding. The eligible volunteers were randomly assigned to one of the two arms “code A or B”. Next, a statistician provided a randomized list employing NCSS (statistical software) via the simple block randomization method based on CONSORT guidelines. The eligible study participants were assigned to one of the two groups “code A or B”, regarding to the randomized list. Participants with an even number on the registration list were enrolled to the CUR group; the remaining participants were put into the placebo group. Coding keys were sent to study's principle investigator through mail after the end of study and final analysis. Thus, neither the participants, nor the principal investigator and data analyst had been aware of the group allocation of the participants and had been blind to the capsule ingredients until the trial and data investigation were accomplished. With the aim of improving CUR's oral bioavailability and facilitating its absorption through intestines, piperine, a major bio‐active component of pepper was used in addition to CUR (Shoba et al., 