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Is Turmeric Good For Diabetes? Learn More In 2024
Updated on
- Written by Mitchelle Morgan, Health Writer
Medically reviewed by
Kathy Shattler, MS, RDN
Being a person with diabetes has particular challenges, including watching what you eat. Additionally, being cautious about the condiments you use to prepare your meals and beverages is always best. So, is turmeric good for diabetes?
This article will answer this question and look into the potential benefits of turmeric in managing diabetes and its related complications.
Here we’ll uncover the scientific evidence, clinical trials, and practical ways to incorporate turmeric supplements into a diabetes-friendly healthy diet.
Is Turmeric Good For Diabetes?
Yes, turmeric shows promising benefits for people with diabetes. It may help regulate blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and manage diabetes-related complications. The active compound in turmeric, curcumin, possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can combat chronic inflammation and oxidative stress.
While research is ongoing, preliminary studies suggest that turmeric may positively impact insulin secretion and beta cell function. Incorporating turmeric into a balanced diet or considering turmeric supplements under medical supervision may offer potential benefits if you have diabetes.
However, you must consult a doctor or specialist before making significant changes to your diabetes treatment.
Turmeric And Diabetes
Turmeric,[1] a spice derived from the Curcuma longa plant, is a long-time traditional Chinese medicine.
Curcumin is valued for its warming properties and ability to invigorate blood circulation. Historically, it was used to discourage any blood stagnation in body systems.
For those who have never used it, turmeric is a brilliant yellow spice frequently used mainly for food preparation. But it’s also used in making turmeric supplements.
Recent scientific studies on animal and human trials have examined the potential benefits of turmeric for people with diabetes. This research shed light on its role in blood sugar regulation and diabetes management, and here are some findings.
Blood Sugar Regulation
The turmeric plant may help lower blood sugar levels, making it beneficial if you live with diabetes. Curcumin, the main active compound in turmeric, can improve insulin resistance[2] and glucose metabolism.[3] Animal studies show it may also support the function of beta cells[4] in the pancreas, which are responsible for insulin secretion.
Anti-inflammatory And Antioxidant Effects
Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress play a significant role in the development and progression of diabetes and its complications. Turmeric curcumin possesses potent anti-inflammatory[2] and antioxidant properties,[5] which can help reduce inflammation and protect against cellular damage caused by free radicals. It contains various types of vitamins, such as C and B6. These two are among the many vitamins in diabetes-friendly supplements that minimize inflammation and oxidative stress.
Diabetes-Related Complications
Diabetes can lead to complications such as kidney dysfunctions,[6] heart disease,[7] and fatty liver disease.[8] Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects may contribute to preventing or managing these complications by reducing inflammation,[9] improving lipid profile,[10] and supporting liver health.[11] It has also been shown to reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome.[12]
Several clinical trials have explored the effects of turmeric and curcumin on diabetes. While the results are promising, more research is needed to establish the optimal dosage, duration, and long-term effects of turmeric supplementation for people with diabetes.
Benefits Of Turmeric For Diabetes
Now that you know the link between turmeric and diabetes, your body gains these advantages of turmeric:
Improves Glucose Metabolism
Curcumin in turmeric may help regulate blood sugar levels by improving glucose metabolism. This potentially leads to reduced fasting blood glucose levels.[13] Reducing fasting glucose is beneficial because it helps maintain stable blood sugar levels and improves glycemic control. It also reduces the risk of diabetes complications.
Protects Against Inflammation
Turmeric’s powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties can reduce chronic inflammation and oxidative stress. These two are critical in diabetes development, complications, and other chronic diseases. This property might also extend its benefits to gestational diabetes[14] and pregnant women with diabetes;[14] however, a specialist with a certification in diabetes education should ideally help you approach this treatment.
Insulin Production And Beta Cell Function
Research suggests that curcumin can improve the function of beta cells in the pancreas. These cells are responsible for the regulation of insulin.[15]
Improved Insulin Sensitivity
Turmeric may enhance insulin sensitivity, allowing cells to respond better to insulin. This facilitates glucose uptake and utilization and potentially reduces[16] insulin resistance.
Weight Management
Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for diabetes management. Turmeric may aid in weight management.[2] Curcumin may work in this situation by improving fat metabolism and decreasing inflammation[17] in adipose tissue. This way, it may be instrumental in preventing weight gain.
Heart Health
Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can positively affect heart health.[18] It may help reduce the risk of heart disease, which is two to four times higher[19] if you have diabetes.
Immune System Support
Turmeric’s immune-modulating properties[20] may support the immune system. As a person with diabetes, your immune system is already compromised by the condition, so a boost does you good.
How To Use Turmeric For Diabetes
You can easily incorporate turmeric into your healthy foods for diabetes. Here are some practical ways to use turmeric for its health benefits.
Turmeric Powder
Add turmeric powder to your cooking, such as curries, rice, stir-fries, and soups, to infuse dishes with its vibrant color and health benefits. The color also adds some vibrance to your food.
Turmeric Supplements
Consider using over-the-counter supplements from the turmeric root extract under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Look for standardized curcumin supplements with a reliable brand.
Turmeric Milk
Prepare turmeric milk by combining a teaspoon of turmeric powder with warm milk and adding a pinch of black pepper for enhanced absorption. You may also use coconut milk and drink this beverage before bedtime.
Turmeric Tea
Brew a soothing cup of turmeric tea by steeping turmeric powder or freshly grated turmeric in hot water. Add lemon, cinnamon powder, or honey for additional flavor.
Turmeric In Smoothies
You can consume turmeric by blending turmeric powder or fresh turmeric root into your favorite smoothies for a nutritious boost.
Turmeric Golden Paste
Make a golden turmeric paste by mixing turmeric powder, black pepper, and healthy coconut or olive oil. Use it as a base for various recipes or as a daily supplement.
How Much Turmeric Should A Diabetes Take Daily?
While it is unclear how quickly turmeric lower blood sugar, how much turmeric a person with diabetes should take daily varies. Nonetheless, you should start with a conservative dosage and gradually increase it if your body tolerates it well.
Registered Dietitians can provide personalized guidance and monitor any potential interactions or side effects of supplements. Your health team can help ensure turmeric is safe and effective in your diabetes meal plan.
Side Effects And Warnings
- Allergies: You may experience allergic reactions to turmeric. It may also cause contact dermatitis[21] on the touch.
- Gastrointestinal Issues: High doses of turmeric may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, including bloating, gas, and diarrhea.
- Blood Thinning: Turmeric possesses natural blood-thinning properties.[22] So please take caution if you take turmeric with anticoagulant medications or have a bleeding disorder.[23] Always consult a doctor before using turmeric alongside prescription medications such as blood thinners.
- Gallbladder Issues: Turmeric can stimulate bile production,[24] potentially causing issues for people with gallstones[25] or gallbladder disease.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Limited research is available on the safety of turmeric during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It’s best to avoid turmeric in high doses or consult your doctor if you have gestational diabetes.
- Iron Absorption: Turmeric may inhibit iron absorption,[26] so you should monitor your intake if you have an iron deficiency.
- Kidney Stones: Turmeric contains oxalates,[27] possibly contributing to kidney stone formation if you are susceptible.
- Quality and Purity: Ensure the turmeric or curcumin supplement is high quality and free from contaminants or additives.
Finally, consult with your registered dietitian or doctor on protein powders, supplements, or medication for proper guidance.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, can diabetes take turmeric? Yes, they can!
Taking turmeric holds promise as a natural adjunct therapy if you have diabetes. Its potential benefits include blood sugar regulation, anti-inflammatory effects and antioxidant abilities. It may also improve insulin sensitivity and prevent diabetes-related complications like heart disease.
Turmeric is a special spice that you can incorporate into daily routines in various forms. You can use turmeric powder and its extracts in foods for diabetes, supplements, turmeric milk, or tea.
As diabetes research on turmeric’s effects continues to evolve, staying informed and following a registered dietitian’s guidance is crucial. By combining the benefits of turmeric with a well-rounded diabetes management plan, you can potentially achieve better diabetes control.
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Health Canal avoids using tertiary references. We have strict sourcing guidelines and rely on peer-reviewed studies, academic researches from medical associations and institutions. To ensure the accuracy of articles in Health Canal, you can read more about the editorial process here
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Written by:
Mitchelle Morgan, Health Writer
Medically reviewed by:
Medically reviewed by:
