by Turmeric is one of the most valued spices for its potential to reduce the risk of diabetes. Although it has other medicinal applications, its popularity is associated with glycemic control and the prevention of associated complications.
In particular, it has been determined that curcumin, its main active compound, is beneficial in reducing insulin resistance, as well as improving metabolic health. Similarly, it fights inflammation, oxidative stress and other factors that compromise the well-being of people at risk of diabetes.
A review shared on Current Topics in Medicinal Chemistry concluded that “curcumin has antidiabetic effects, while acting as an antioxidant, neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory”.
Turmeric, a spice to prevent diabetes
Turmeric is popularly known as “the golden spice”. This is popular in Ayurvedic medicine, since since ancient times it has been considered a basic element in the preparation of remedies to reduce ailments, prevent chronic diseases and increase energy levels.
As far as diabetes is concerned, there are several investigations that evaluate its effectiveness. A review of studies shared in the journal Nutrients made interesting finds. Specifically, he determined that numerous investigations in vitro and live have provided strong evidence for the antidiabetic efficacy of curcumin.
According to the data supplied, “This polyphenol has therapeutic potential to prevent diabetes and reduce its complications.” Its mechanism of action is also believed to be the modulation of several signaling molecules linked to inflammation.
Turmeric, metabolic syndrome and diabetes prevention
Turmeric’s benefits in preventing diabetes are largely due to its ability to combat metabolic syndrome. This problem brings together a series of altered chemical processes, among which insulin resistance, high glucose levels, lipid disorders and obesity stand out.
A study shared through International Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism found that curcumin has antihyperglycemic and insulin-sensitizing effects, which allows to reduce the resistance to the hormone and the complications associated with it.
Similarly, a systematic review published in Longhua Chinese Medicine determined that turmeric has the potential to control risk factors linked to metabolic syndrome. This encompasses blood sugar levels, cholesterol, triglycerides, inflammation, and body mass index.
This is supported by a review of studies shared in Frontiers in Endocrinologywhich concluded that curcumin is a natural, safe and inexpensive antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory. Its effect is attributed to its ability to suppress oxidative stress and the inflammatory process.
Exactly, the researchers found that it lowers fasting blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin, body mass index, serum C-reactive protein, total cholesterol, and triglycerides in patients with diabetes mellitus type 2.
The spice prevents complications associated with diabetes
In addition to reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes, turmeric also benefits patients who already have this disease. Given its properties, it can minimize the risk of associated complications, such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, diabetic neuropathy, and nephropathy, among others.
An investigation shared through Pharmacy Practice reported that curcumin extract also It has therapeutic potential against non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. However, it is not a substitute for medical treatment or lifestyle changes.
Recent studies done on animals and published in Biomed Research International, talk about the potential of curcumin to combat diabetic nephropathy. In particular, an antifibrotic effect is attributed to it, which shows promise against this complication of diabetes.
Although the evidence is limited and human studies are lacking, curcumin is believed to have potential against erectile dysfunction that occurs due to diabetes.
