Turmeric for Weight Loss

Turmeric is a common spice derived from the roots of the Curcuma longa plant. This staple of Ayurvedic medicine has long been prized for its anti-inflammatory properties, as well as its ability to soothe an upset stomach. Only recently, however, has turmeric begun to make waves as a weight loss aid. From increasing insulin sensitivity to reducing the growth of fat cells, recent studies demonstrate the effectiveness of turmeric for weight loss.

What is Curcumin? 

Curcumin is the powerful antioxidant component which makes turmeric so popular. Renown for its ability to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, curcumin is actually part of a class of naturally-occurring chemical compounds called curcuminoids which produce a bright yellow pigment within the root of the turmeric plant. It is also the active component responsible for turmeric’s weight loss benefits.

How Does Curcumin Help with Weight Loss?

The primary weight loss benefits of turmeric curcumin range from hormonal support to inflammation reduction to changes in lipid metabolism and the growth rate of fat cells. While investigation into the ways turmeric curcumin impacts weight loss and metabolism are still ongoing, mounting scientific evidence indicates that turmeric curcumin may become a safe, all-natural ally in the fight against obesity. 

Scientific evidence for the power of turmeric curcumin has been particularly strong for individuals with metabolic syndrome, a cluster of risk factors for heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues. 

Turmeric for Inflammation

Not only does the curcumin in turmeric assist in the absorption of harmful free radicals that can damage cell membranes; it also helps reduce the levels of two enzymes known to cause inflammation. 

Turmeric for High Blood Sugar and Insulin Sensitivity

Several studies have demonstrated that curcumin is a promising therapeutic option for several metabolic disorders including type-2 diabetes.       

Additionally, curcumin has been shown to lower blood glucose levels and increase levels of adiponectin, a signaling protein that helps control inflammation throughout the body. Adiponectin is a hormone secreted by fat cells which helps regulate the metabolism of glucose. It is also involved in insulin sensitivity: as adiponectin levels rise, so does sensitivity to insulin.

At the same time, however, adiponectin tends to be lower in obese individuals, as well as those with certain metabolic disorders and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. With curcumin, individuals with lower adiponectin can raise their insulin sensitivity, thus lowering the inflammation that comes from high blood sugar levels.  

Turmeric for Weight Management 

Weight loss can stall for many reasons: stress, age, illness. Even when you’re following a healthy diet and exercise plan, it can be difficult to shift unwanted inches.

One of the major benefits of turmeric and curcumin is that it enhances metabolic performance. Not only does curcumin help reign in metabolism-busting inflammation, it has been shown to support metabolic performance in individuals with some metabolic disorders.    

But turmeric can help with more than just weight loss; it can also help you maintain a healthy weight. Weight regain after dieting is extremely common and depends on a variety of factors, including age, health status, and ability to maintain regular diet and exercise.

In a 2017 study involving rats, the effects of curcumin on weight and adipose tissue growth after the cessation of calorie restriction found that curcumin not only limits the growth of fat cells but helps protect against weight regain.  

Turmeric Side Effects and Safety 

Turmeric supplementation is generally regarded as safe for most individuals. However, it can cause side effects in high doses or for individuals with some medical conditions. 

• Upset stomach
• Diarrhea
• Rashes
• Headaches
• Bloating
• Flatulence
• Acid reflux
• Nausea

Avoid supplementing turmeric if you suffer from any of the following, as it could result in severe reaction:

• Bleeding disorders
• Diabetes
• Iron deficiency
• Kidney stones

The impacts of turmeric on pregnant or breastfeeding women have yet to be thoroughly documented. 

Turmeric Supplements for Weight Loss

The best way to supplement turmeric is through the use of fermented turmeric powder. Fermented turmeric powder not only heightens the absorption of the curcumin within the plant, but it increases some of its impacts upon the body. 

Our favorite turmeric supplement for weight loss is Dr. Eric Snow’s Turmeric Power. Packed full of high-quality, organic fermented turmeric and ginger for added potency, Dr. Eric Snow’s offers all of the power with none of the filler.