Turmeric is a ‘powerhouse’ spice due to its anti-inflammatory properties and its active compound, curcumin, which has anti-diabetic properties, according to a health expert
A health expert says diabetics could benefit from a kitchen spice that can help lower blood sugar levels. Turmeric is often praised for its anti-inflammatory qualities as it contains curcumin, an active ingredient praised for its health benefits.
“Curcumin has anti-diabetic properties and effects similar to Metformin,” says Dr Eric Berg, a best-selling author with titles such as The Healthy Keto and Get Healthy First.. This health guru is a staunch advocate for the ketogenic diet and intermittent fasting.
Metformin is a medication that aids in lowering blood sugar by limiting glucose production in the liver and boosting the body’s response to insulin – the essential hormone in regulating blood glucose levels. It also helps the body to utilise glucose more efficiently across different tissues, including muscles.
Mirroring these effects, curcumin can diminish glucose production in the liver by inhibiting hepatic gluconeogenesis – the process by which the liver makes glucose out of non-carbohydrate substrates. Furthermore, curcumin has been noted to enhance insulin sensitivity, thereby improving the cells’ ability to react to insulin and use glucose in a more effective manner.
Turmeric and curcumin, while closely related, are not the same thing. Turmeric is a spice derived from a plant and is commonly used in supplements, while curcumin is a compound found within turmeric, specifically a type of curcuminoid, reports Surrey Live.
It’s curcumin that gives turmeric its distinctive yellow colour. Both turmeric and curcumin are frequently used as spices in curry powders, mustards, and various other dishes.
What is type 2 diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes is a long-term condition where the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or the insulin it does produce doesn’t work effectively, leading to high blood sugar levels. This state, often referred to as insulin resistance, can result in complications such as heart disease, kidney problems, and nerve damage.
Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, is crucial for allowing glucose from food to enter cells for energy. When the body fails to produce sufficient insulin or cells become resistant to it, glucose builds up in the bloodstream.
Over time, elevated blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves, causing serious health issues.
The exact causes of type 2 diabetes aren’t fully understood, but it’s often associated with factors like being overweight or obese and having a family history of the disease, according to Diabetes UK. Common symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, and tiredness.
Diagnosis of diabetes is typically made through blood tests, such as measuring fasting blood glucose levels or the HbA1c test. Managing the condition often involves lifestyle changes, including alterations in diet and exercise, and sometimes medication, which may include insulin.
Why is curcumin beneficial for blood sugar levels?
Diabetes is often associated with persistent inflammation and oxidative stress. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of curcumin can help tackle these issues.
It has the potential to enhance the activity of antioxidant enzymes, further easing oxidative stress in diabetes models.
Curcumin could potentially improve insulin sensitivity by increasing the production of proteins that aid glucose absorption into cells. Moreover, it might help reduce insulin resistance, a key feature of type 2 diabetes.
It can also enhance beta cell function, which is vital for insulin production. Curcumin’s glucose-lowering effects are believed to be linked to its ability to:.
Boost the expression of glucose transporter proteins (GLUT4, GLUT2, GLUT3).
Activate AMPK, an enzyme involved in glucose metabolism. Lower inflammation, which can lead to insulin resistance.
Curcumin is the most extensively researched curcuminoid. It may also assist in improving blood pressure, protecting your heart, and reducing your risk of heart disease.
What do the studies say?
A study by the National Institutes of Health indicates that curcumin might assist in controlling established diabetes by decreasing blood sugar levels and bettering metabolic profiles. Further research points to curcumin’s ability to boost insulin sensitivity, making body cells more responsive to insulin, thus aiding in blood sugar regulation.
Some studies even propose that curcumin could help prevent or delay type 2 diabetes onset.
Findings from a 2019 study concluded: “The combination of metformin with curcumin decreased dyslipidemia and TBARS levels in diabetic rats… These findings indicated that curcumin combined with metformin… might be a promising strategy for combating diabetic complications, mainly the cardiovascular events.”
Another recent study from December 2024 reported: “The combination of metformin and curcumin demonstrates superior efficacy in improving lipid profiles [and] glucose metabolism.”
Regarding the joint use of Metformin and curcumin, studies imply that “curcumin exerts synergistic anti-inflammation with metformin with no potential adverse effects”.
Research shared in Pharmacia claims: “Curcumin is comparable to metformin.”
This conclusion stems from research targeting the treatment of PCOS in rats with curcumin. Additionally, a study examining the relationship between gut microbiota and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) revealed that “both curcumin and metformin have a therapeutic effect against NAFLD and play a role in modulating the gut microbiota.”
The spice has been studied for its potential to prevent and tackle certain cancers, with few side effects reported from using products that contain curcumin.
Can curcumin lower cholesterol as well?
When it comes to cholesterol, Dr Berg points out that the spice may play a role in maintaining healthy levels. He explains: “Research has shown that curcumin has benefits similar to statins and can help reduce LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.”
Some scientific evidence suggests that curcumin can positively affect glucose tolerance and lipid profiles.
Notably, a 2019 study demonstrated that curcumin enhanced insulin sensitivity and improved lipid profiles in rat models of type 2 diabetes.
What should you consider before curcumin?
Studies have indicated that in animals, curcumin can significantly drop blood sugar levels and bolster insulin sensitivity. Moreover, some human research hints at the possibility of curcumin supplements aiding blood sugar control, particularly for individuals with prediabetes or diabetes.
Although animal studies show encouraging results, more comprehensive research on humans is vital to grasp the full spectrum of curcumin’s impact on diabetes management.
If you are treating your blood sugar with medication prescribed by your doctor, make sure you stick to the provided guidelines unless directed otherwise. And remember, if you’re thinking about supplementing with curcumin, discussing it with your GP first is crucial.
It’s crucial to be aware that curcumin supplements can interfere with specific medications, including blood thinners, and should be discussed with a healthcare professional before use. While generally safe, high doses of curcumin can cause minor digestive issues in some individuals.
