Can Turmeric Help With Weight Loss?

 

Some evidence suggests that the curcumin in turmeric may help promote weight loss. However, more research is necessary.

Turmeric is a popular spice that people have used for a long time in cooking and homeopathic remedies.

Although doctors do not usually recommend turmeric specifically for weight loss, several studies have shown that it and its compounds may help.

Keep reading to learn more about what researchers have to say about the potential

effects of turmeric on weight loss. This article also explains how to take turmeric, possible side effects, and more.

Can Turmeric Help A Person Lose Weight?

Several studies suggest that curcumin, a primary compound found in turmeric, may help with weight loss.

According to a 2023 review of studies, curcumin supplements help to reduce body mass index (BMI) and promote weight loss. The researchers recommended taking supplements and making lifestyle changes, such as increased exercise, may help aid weight loss.

A 2019 reviewTrusted Source of 18 articles found that evidence suggests that curcumin can help with a variety of weight-related aspects, including:

• overall weight reduction
• waist reduction
• reduced BMI
• reduced fat

It also may help with improving the metabolism of fats and sugars.

A 2022 studyTrusted Source noted that curcumin may help with numerous weight management aspects.

However, the study also cautions that more extensive human studies are still necessary to fully understand how curcumin may affect larger portions of the population. Potential issues include low absorption rates in the gut and possible interaction with other medications.

How to take turmeric for weight loss

While turmeric may help promote weight loss due to its curcumin content, the amount of curcumin found in certain turmeric-containing foods is unlikely to provide any additional weight loss benefit. A person will likely need the higher amounts found in supplements to see any effects.

A person considering supplements should discuss their use with a doctor, particularly if they have any allergies or are taking other medications. These may interact with turmeric supplements.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplementsTrusted Source or the supplement industry. A person should buy supplements from a reputable company. Some companies have higher review ratings, and some use independent testing companies to verify their product purity and safety.

If a person is unsure whether the supplements are from a reputable company, their doctor or pharmacist might be able to help.

When taking supplements, a person should follow the instructions from the manufacturer and their doctor’s recommendation.

Possible side effects of turmeric

Turmeric and curcumin are generally safe. However, some people may experience side effects.

According to the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in the United Kingdom, possible side effects of curcumin include:

• constipation
• diarrhea
• nausea
• vomiting
• yellow stool

A person taking curcumin supplements should consider stopping use if they develop unwanted side effects. They may also want to talk with a doctor if they become severe.

It is also important to not take too much curcumin to help reduce the likelihood of side effects. A person’s doctor can advise on how much curcumin they recommend based on their circumstances.

When to avoid turmeric

In addition to avoiding turmeric and curcumin if side effects occur, a person should avoid them if they have:

• bile duct obstruction
• bile duct inflammation
• gallstones
• liver disease

In some people, turmeric can lead to serious liver conditions, such as:

• hepatitis
• autoimmune hepatitis
• drug-induced liver injury

 

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