Should I be taking turmeric supplements?

These conditions may cause you to lose too much water or salt and may lead to low blood pressure. Blood tests may be needed to check for unwanted effects. Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use. There is a considerable body of knowledge, supported by rigorous experimental data, that natural polyphenols, including curcumin, can be an effective and safer alternative for managing obesity. However, it is important to consult with a health care provider before taking any supplement. No, taking turmeric will not make you lose weight on its own. There’s no specific dosage of turmeric if you’ll use it for weight loss. Drink turmeric tea regularly to start losing weight and achieve a leaner weight. There are many options on how you can use turmeric for weight loss. It’s likely that curcumin is so helpful for weight loss because of its anti-inflammatory properties. After 30 days, participants reported significant weight loss, as well as reductions in waist and hip circumference and body mass index (BMI). Human studies show more positive signs that using turmeric for weight loss could be worth it. In the early 2000s, researchers began looking into the health effects of curcumin, starting with animal studies, says Naomi Parrella, MD, FAAFP, Dipl. This habit may help kickstart digestion and prepare your body for the day , which is also the best time to take turmeric powder. It won’t cause weight loss on its own, but can support your goals as part of a healthy lifestyle. Sustainable weight loss is about more than just supplements. Curcumin can interact with certain medicines, so it’s best to check with a doctor if you’re on prescriptions. This helps your body adapt and ensures you don’t shock your digestive system. Think of turmeric as an Ancient Spice, Modern Solution for a Healthier Body. Adding turmeric into your lifestyle is simple, but the way you use it—how much, when, and in what form—can determine how effective it is. If you do total-body workouts, that's two sessions per week. For strength exercises, aim to work all your major muscle groups twice to three times each week, leaving 48 hours between each workout for recovery. Isotonic exercises require you to bear weight throughout a range of motion. Strength training also helps prevent falls, keep bones strong, lower blood sugar levels, and improve balance. Curcumin has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which play a significant role in promoting weight loss. Turmeric contains a powerful compound called curcumin, which is responsible for its vibrant yellow color and most of its health benefits. In recent years, turmeric has gained popularity for its potential to aid in weight loss.

Improves Flexibility & Mobility

When you are taking this medicine, it is especially important that your healthcare professional know if you are taking any of the medicines listed below. Weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before taking this medication while breastfeeding. There are no adequate studies in women for determining infant risk when using this medication during breastfeeding. Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of lisinopril in the elderly. In essence, even the best multivitamins for men cannot replace a balanced and nutrient-rich diet. ON THE HUNT for a great multivitamin to support your overall health and immunity? If you need help managing your weight, you might be able to refer yourself directly to services that can help you, without seeing a GP.
  • The positive effects of yerba maté (Ilex paraguariensis) in obesity.
  • A moderate amount of alcohol (1 or 2 drinks in a day) now and then is unlikely to be an issue.
  • A warm cup of turmeric milk (golden milk) is a classic bedtime remedy.
  • In the context of such an oxidative stress challenge, previous investigators have demonstrated significant antioxidant effects of spices and fruit polyphenols 93,94.
  • Additionally, curcumin helps to improve insulin sensitivity, reducing the risk of developing insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes, both of which are linked to weight gain.The recommended daily dose of turmeric for weight loss is approximately 1-2 teaspoons per day.
  • Some people may experience fatigue, headaches, or digestive issues during a natural cleanse, especially if they are not used to eating certain foods or taking supplements.
  • Curcumin is a polyphenolic compound that represents the most important curcuminoid isolated from the rhizome of the plants .
The term metabolism refers to all physiological processes involved in converting food into energy. For thousands of years, turmeric has been used as a spice, dye, and natural remedy in traditional Ayurvedic and Chinese medicinal practices. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Consult with a healthcare professional to determine the optimal timing for your individual needs. “A cause and effect relationship has not been established between the consumption of curcumin and maintenance of joint function.” Surprisingly, it was also more effective than curcumin and diclofenac together. Some scientists are investigating whether curcumin might have the potential to help with rheumatoid arthritis. After 3 months, their self-reported symptoms had improved by an average of 58%, and they could walk four times farther in a treadmill test. Some scientists are looking at curcumin as a potential treatment. Effect of Morning vs Evening Turmeric Consumption on Urine Oxidative Stress Biomarkers in Obese, Middle-Aged Adults: A Feasibility Study

Understanding Turmeric’s Active Compound: Curcumin

Most researchers use turmeric extracts or isolated curcumin to test its effects on health. It’s estimated that people in India get approximately 2,000 to 2,500 mg of tumeric and 60 to 100 mg of curcumin per day from their diet.2 The main one, curcumin, is considered turmeric’s “active ingredient” and has been linked to health benefits. Turmeric — the bright yellow spice used in many Asian and Middle Eastern dishes — has been credited with some impressive health benefits, such as weight loss and arthritis pain relief. Goodarzi R, Sabzian K, Shishehbor F, Mansoori A. Does turmeric/curcumin supplementation improve serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease?
  • The recommended daily dose of turmeric for weight loss varies depending on several factors, such as individual tolerance, health conditions, and desired benefits.
  • Nevertheless, when curcumin was administered to HFD-fed C57BL/6 mice for 12 weeks, it attenuated the HFD-induced increase in FGF21 in the liver and blood plasma.
  • Human studies show modest impacts on markers like BMI only when combined with diet and exercise—never alone.
  • Any perceived “boost” likely stems from reduced inflammation-related fatigue, making movement feel easier—not from burning more calories at rest.
  • Here’s a look at the uses and benefits of turmeric, effective doses, and safety concerns.
  • A simple, soothing turmeric drink to help with weight loss, inflammation, and detoxification.
  • Many people combine berberine with supplements like alpha-lipoic acid, chromium, or cinnamon, which also support blood sugar regulation and metabolic health.
  • Additionally, turmeric might interact with antidepressants by affecting serotonin and dopamine levels, impacting mood regulation.
Turmeric contains a powerful compound called curcumin, which has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help aid in weight loss.Curcumin in turmeric helps to reduce inflammation in the body, which is a major contributor to obesity and weight gain. With patience, persistence, and a pinch of turmeric, you can achieve your weight loss goals and maintain a healthy, vibrant body.Turmeric, a spice commonly found in Indian and Middle Eastern cooking, is a natural anti-inflammatory agent that has been used for centuries to promote overall health and wellness. When we eat processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats, our body responds with inflammation, which can lead to insulin resistance, metabolic slowdown, and weight gain. Supplements, on the other hand, offer a concentrated dose of curcumin that can be more effective for weight loss. By combining turmeric with a healthy lifestyle, you can unlock its full potential and achieve a slimmer, healthier you. Turmeric, particularly its active compound curcumin, has been shown to have a profound impact on weight loss. One review of small studies found that curcumin reduces body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference in people with metabolic syndrome. But the studies used different types of supplements and different doses, and it’s not clear which type or dosing is best. It found that turmeric supplements and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) were similarly effective. A review of small studies found that large-dose turmeric supplements taken over 6 weeks or more may reduce the impact of oxidative stress. If you want to get the therapeutic benefits in turmeric, you’ll likely need to take it in supplemental form instead of eating it as a spice or as a fresh root.
  • Black pepper and turmeric can have a powerful impact on inflammation.
  • Another study out of Milan looked at the effects of curcumin in people with metabolic syndrome and found that it helped increase weight loss, reduce body fat and decrease body mass index in participants.
  • If you can't set aside that much time, try several short sessions of activity throughout the day.
  • A recent study even found that adherence to a Mediterranean diet may vastly improve both mental and cognitive health.
  • This information may not fit your specific health circumstances.
  • It’s always a good idea to talk with a healthcare professional before taking any new supplements.
  • Increased glucagon-like peptide-1 secretion may be involved in antidiabetic effects of ginsenosides.
  • Therefore, it is strongly advised that if you opt for a recipe made with turmeric, you add black pepper to optimize the effects of turmeric.

Milk Thistle & Turmeric: A Powerful Combo for Health

With patience, persistence, and a little bit of turmeric, you can unlock a healthier, happier you. Consult with a healthcare professional before taking turmeric if you’re taking any medications. As a precaution, consult with a healthcare professional before taking turmeric if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. Additionally, turmeric has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, which can help the body to more efficiently use glucose for energy rather than storing it as fat. Chronic inflammation can also disrupt the body’s natural hunger and fullness hormones, leading to overeating and weight gain. Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties are thought to be one of the primary mechanisms by which it aids in weight loss. Additionally, curcumin has been shown to increase the body’s thermogenic capacity, helping to burn fat more efficiently and increase metabolism.
Morning Boost:
You can buy turmeric powder with other spices at most grocery stores. Supplements are a popular alternative and provide more accurate amounts of curcumin. That's because your body can't absorb or use it well. Turmeric, a vibrant yellow spice derived from the Curcuma longa plant, is primarily known for its active compound, curcumin. Fresh turmeric is considered more aromatic, with a more subtle taste than powdered turmeric. Yes, it is advisable to consume turmeric at night as it improves sleep in many ways. Also, there are many turmerics and black pepper recipe ideas, as well as detailed instructions on how to make turmeric and black pepper capsules. Take time to fully enjoy your food in the morning, emphasizing slower bites. "A small, protein/fat/fiber packed breakfast will help preserve muscle mass, prevent overeating for the day, and fuels your day. Examples include eggs, sugar-free yogurt, or a protein shake," Dr. Gendreau shares. Lately, more and more people are turning to prescription weight-loss drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro to curb their appetite and lose a significant amount of weight. Eliquis starts working within a few hours, and takes about 2 to 3 days to leave your body once you stop taking it.
How to use turmeric for weight loss
Sustainable weight loss requires addressing the underlying biological factors that contribute to weight gain—such as metabolic health, hormone regulation, and appetite control. If you’re considering supplements, consult a healthcare provider first to ensure they’re safe and appropriate for you. Turmeric or curcumin supplements are available in capsule or tablet form. Cooking with turmeric is an easy way to enjoy its flavor and potential health benefits.
May Help Prevent and Manage Type 2 Diabetes
Lipid metabolism is a multi-step process involving the synthesis, storage and degradation of fatty acids, triglycerides and cholesterol. Unfortunately, it is still unknown whether curcumin intervention also represses adipogenesis in vivo. Tian et al. found that curcumin treatment attenuated miR-17-5p expression and stimulated Tcf7l2 expression in the 3T3-L1 cell model . It’s always best to talk with your health care provider before taking a turmeric supplement for these health concerns as well as any of the other health concerns mentioned or not mentioned above. So how much turmeric do you need to take to utilize the benefits of turmeric and curcumin? Curcumin is turmeric’s active compound, and research shows that this one of the main reasons why turmeric can have such incredible positive effects on health. When choosing a turmeric supplement, you’ll likely see a lot of mention of a curcuminoid called curcumin. Your optimal turmeric supplements dosage depends on a number of factors, including why you choose to take turmeric in the first place. Studies have used a range of 500 mg to 2,000 mg of curcumin per day. And keep in mind there’s not much FDA oversight on supplements. When side effects do occur, it’s usually a result of taking very high doses. Turmeric can interact with certain supplements, such as blood thinners, and reduce their effectiveness. These side effects are usually mild and temporary and can be reduced by taking turmeric with food or ginger. Look for supplements that contain a high percentage of curcuminoids, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for dosage. It’s also important to note that the quality of turmeric supplements can affect the dosage. While some people may start to see results in as little as two weeks, others may need to use turmeric for several months before noticing an effect. Turmeric has been known to aid in weight loss, but how long does it take for it to help? Studies have shown that taking turmeric can help reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and even boost your metabolism. Taking Turmeric for Weight Loss has become an increasingly popular weight loss strategy due to its many beneficial properties. Additionally, if you experience any side effects while taking turmeric, stop taking it immediately and speak to your doctor. Does Turmeric Help You Lose Weight? MD Answers In another small study, scientists recruited healthy people aged 45–74. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of curcumin may help improve factors linked to heart health. The researchers were interested in the effects of pure curcumin, so they didn’t include studies that added piperine to increase absorption. A study showed that curcumin can prevent fat deposits in the liver and the production of fetuin-A (1). The bioactive compounds present in turmeric provide several medicinal benefits. Turmeric is one of the natural ingredients that can help you shed unwanted pounds while keeping your body in optimal health. Our expert-led medical clinics specialize in providing innovative regenerative therapies for individuals struggling with health concerns, inflammation, peripheral neuropathy, arthritis, and chronic pain. The Fat Factor: Your Absorption Lifeline Healthy arteries ensure consistent blood flow that delivers essential nutrients, hormones, and other substances to your muscles, brain, and other organs. However, in some cases inflammation can become chronic due to stress, illness, or lifestyle factors. It’s usually a short-lived essential response that helps your body fight illness and heal from injury. Inflammation occurs when your body senses an irritant — such as a virus, a splinter, or an open wound — and defends itself by ramping up its immune system. However, this doesn’t seem to happen for everyone, and it’s not clear what makes it more likely to be effective. For those who like their caffeine with a wellness twist, this option gives a little kick while incorporating the benefits of turmeric. It’s essentially your usual black coffee blended with turmeric, cinnamon, and sometimes MCT oil. Don’t miss our detox soup recipes for weight loss—they pair perfectly with your golden cup. Ideally, keep cooking times short and as well as including in a curry why not enjoy in a golden latte, soup, marinade or sauce? Further studies are needed to confirm these results and assess longer-term data. The small trial found that patients had similar improvements in their digestive symptoms, whether they were taking tablets containing curcumin or omeprazole – or a combination of both. A recent study looked at the effectiveness of curcumin compared to omeprazole, a drug used to reduce excess stomach acid and treat indigestion.
  • For people who are obese, the disruption in hormones causes adipose tissue dysfunction, which then causes more low-grade inflammation.
  • Fan, C., Wo, X., Qian, Y., Yin, J., and Gao, L. Effect of curcumin on the expression of LDL receptor in mouse macrophages.
  • Weight Loss Teachers offer vital information & knowledge to accelerate your weight loss journey.
  • Turmeric’s active compound, curcumin, is responsible for its impressive health benefits.
  • The core confusion mixes absorption science with weight loss results.
  • Even though turmeric is natural, our bodies can benefit from periodic breaks.
  • Listen to this – turmeric can help stabilize blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity.
  • They also noticed lower cholesterol and fatty liver levels in the subjects.
However, keep in mind that depending on individual predispositions and sensitivity, some people may feel discomfort or stomach upset. Usually, the body gets into a fasted state 8 to 12 hours after you have had your last meal. However, there is some data online that points out taking high doses of turmeric can lead to very high levels of heart rhythm and palpitations. The core confusion mixes absorption science with weight loss results. You may notice reduced bloating or improved digestion within a few weeks, but measurable changes in weight are typically seen after 2-3 months of consistent use as part of a holistic diet and exercise plan. Powder can be easily incorporated into foods (like golden milk, soups, or smoothies) with fats, which aids absorption. In this article, you will learn to use turmeric to its full potential and how it makes a fantastic spice for weight loss. Several studies have also noted that the super-component we hardly know about is the active compound called curcumin found in turmeric. Because of turmeric’s potential to fight obesity and reduce inflammation, the bulge can be reduced healthily. It has been claimed that turmeric can aid in weight loss. And lots of things can cause it — from autoimmune diseases to stress and diet. But long-term (chronic) inflammation can cause problems. So, what’s turmeric good for? Wang, Y., Lu, Z., Wu, H., and Lv, F. Study on the antibiotic activity of microcapsule curcumin against foodborne pathogens. And Jang, Y. P. Direct analysis of curcumin in turmeric by DART-MS. Wichitnithad, W., Jongaroonngamsang, N., Pummangura, S., and Rojsitthisak, P. A simple isocratic HPLC method for the simultaneous determination of curcuminoids in commercial turmeric extracts. Li, Y. C., Wang, F. M., Pan, Y., Qiang, L. Q., Cheng, G., Zhang, W. Y., and Kong, L. D. Antidepressant-like effects of curcumin on serotonergic receptor-coupled AC-cAMP pathway in chronic unpredictable mild stress of rats. Mental health EMR systems streamline patient care and improve data management. Ellie Mental Health is a widely discussed topic in mental health care. Stay informed and make choices that align with your health goals. Although curcumin, the ingredient in turmeric, is widely acknowledged to be safe, you should still talk to a doctor if you have any questions. Be aware that there is insufficient information on these supplements’ safety for pregnant or nursing women. Both turmeric and curcumin are generally regarded as safe. So make sure you get your turmeric tea fix now if you haven’t already. Add some cinnamon powder or a piece of cinnamon stick to your cup of turmeric tea. Ulcerative colitis and inflammatory bowel disease These can increase absorption by 2000% compared to plain curcumin. It's what researchers extract and concentrate for studies. Curcumin is the main bioactive compound within turmeric. You're not going to wake up with a raging metabolism because you took turmeric. There's also emerging research on how curcumin affects gut microbiota. It also doesn’t have significant energy-boosting capabilities, unlike black tea, for example. What experts recommend is to take curcumin three or more hours after or before eating. What we need is to find a way to help our body absorb as much of it as possible. By applying this tip, you will multiply by twenty the penetration of curcumin in the blood. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions of curcuminoids should not be overlooked either. In obese or overweight people, the risk of diabetes is more frequent and high. The inflammatory action of these adipokines leads to the production of oxidative stress in cases of obesity or excessive fat deposits. Inflammation is generally caused by obesity or excessive fat deposits in the body. However, nature has provided us with a potent ally in the fight against excess weight – turmeric. Most of these doses involve turmeric extracts with high curcumin concentration. Additionally, turmeric’s antioxidant properties may offer neuroprotective effects, potentially benefiting conditions like depression and stress. Recent studies have also explored turmeric’s role in cancer prevention. Turmeric has been the subject of numerous clinical trials, revealing potential benefits for chronic diseases and mental health. Keep in mind that all herbal supplements should be used with caution. High doses of turmeric and curcumin are not recommended long-term since research confirming their safety is lacking. Nonetheless, turmeric may still have benefits when used as a spice. In other words, turmeric spices contain around 3% curcumin, compared to 95% in extracts. Evidence from randomized controlled trials supports many suggested benefits of turmeric — the gold standard of research.
  • For anyone looking to reap its benefits daily in a targeted (and thus, reliable) dose, that’s squarely turmeric supplement territory.
  • From my experience, it’s a gentle habit that supports better digestion over time—not a quick fix, but a meaningful shift.
  • The truth is that there isn’t a “best” time to drink turmeric tea for weight loss, because losing weight is a holistic process involving a healthy diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep.
  • The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions of curcuminoids should not be overlooked either.
  • Turmeric shows success in reducing inflammation in people with a variety of inflammatory conditions.
  • This isn't to dismiss turmeric—it's about using it wisely.
  • Turmeric can help with weight loss thanks to curcumin, its active ingredient, which reduces inflammation—a key player in obesity.
Taking fish oil along with medications that also slow blood clotting might increase the risk of bruising and bleeding. Swordfish, ahi and bigeye tuna, marlin, shark, tilefish, king mackerel and other fatty fish all contain high levels of contaminants. Anchovies are a purer source of omega 3s compared to larger species of fatty fish which contain higher levels of pollutants and toxins. However, it has been shown that a greater ratio of EPA to DHA seems to address inflammatory risk factors more effectively. Pairing turmeric with black pepper or fats like coconut oil can improve absorption, making your meals not only tastier but also more nutritious. Additionally, golden milk, which combines turmeric with milk and spices, is an increasingly popular drink that allows you to enjoy its flavor and health properties. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have underlying health conditions, discussing turmeric’s use with your doctor is especially important to ensure safety and effectiveness. In rare cases, very high doses of turmeric may have adverse effects, such as increased risk of bleeding or liver issues. Thus, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen. Additionally, curcumin has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, boost metabolism, and suppress appetite. This can help maintain its effectiveness and minimize potential side effects. To avoid developing tolerance, consider cycling turmeric intake every 2-3 months. Piperine, a compound found in black pepper, enhances curcumin’s bioavailability by up to 2,000%.
  • Just be sure to label and date the containers so you can easily keep track of how long the tea has been stored.
  • “What adiponectin does is it improves insulin sensitivity and it also decreases inflammation.” (Increased insulin sensitivity and decreased inflammation levels are thought to help with weight loss.)
  • Prioritizing a healthy eating regimen, rich in whole foods, remains paramount in ensuring your body gets all the nutrients it needs to thrive.
  • You can add black pepper to your turmeric-spiced meals or supplements to maximize their effectiveness.
  • Mix turmeric powder with lemon juice, water, and a touch of sweetener for a vibrant, healthful drink.
  • This is consistent with prior, smaller studies showing improvements in liver function and fat metabolism.
Can I take turmeric on an empty stomach?
Turmeric may also help regulate appetite hormones, which can reduce cravings and lead to a decrease in calorie intake, essential for weight loss. A healthier metabolism can lead to more efficient calorie burning and weight management. Curcumin may support metabolic health by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing fat accumulation. Put simply, obesity causes imbalanced hormones, which can increase your appetite, make it harder to metabolize nutrients properly, and cause more inflammation. That puts people at higher risk for chronic diseases, including cardiometabolic disease. Leptin is responsible for regulating your appetite and fat storage, while adiponectin protects against insulin resistance and manages glucose metabolism. When someone is obese, they have increased levels of inflammatory cytokines and decreased levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines. Chronic inflammation is a major contributor to weight gain and obesity, as it can disrupt the delicate balance of hormones and metabolic processes. The active compound in turmeric, curcumin, can help increase the production of adiponectin. Whether you’re struggling to shed those stubborn pounds or simply looking to support your overall health, turmeric could be the natural ally you’ve been searching for.
  • According to Ireson et al. , curcumin undergoes extensive metabolic conjugation and reduction in the gastrointestinal tract, and there is a more considerable metabolism in human intestinal tissue than in rat intestinal tissue.
  • Moon, D. O., Kim, M. O., Lee, H. J., Choi, Y. H., Park, Y. M., Heo, M. S., and Kim, G. Y. Curcumin attenuates ovalbumin-induced airway inflammation by regulating nitric oxide.
  • Based on studies, turmeric and curcumin might also help treat upset stomach, diabetes, depression, HIV, uveitis, and viral infections.
  • For supplements, 500–1,500mg of a piperine-enhanced formula split into two doses.
  • Antioxidant availability of turmeric in relation to its medicinal and culinary uses.
  • However, some people may experience side effects, especially when taking high doses or taking it for an extended period.
  • Ellie Mental Health is a widely discussed topic in mental health care.
  • Research suggests that curcumin can enhance thermogenesis, a process that involves the conversion of calories into heat energy.
For better gut absorption, it’s best to cook turmeric with fat, like coconut oil or full-fat dairy. But turmeric extracts contain concentrated curcumin — sometimes as high as 95%. Only around 3% of the weight of pure turmeric powder is curcumin. So it’s important to choose supplements that are certified by third-party organizations. Make sure to give them a full list of medications and supplements you take so they can help you decide whether turmeric is safe for you. Known for its active compound curcumin, turmeric is celebrated not just for culinary uses but also for its medicinal properties. If you are taking herbs as a supplement, adhere to the recommended dosages to avoid any unnecessary effects. What you eat significantly impacts how much weight you lose or gain, but you may not know that many herbs and spices may help with your weight loss journey. High doses may be warranted for specific health conditions, but it’s important to approach increased consumption cautiously.