
Is it Safe to Take Turmeric with Diabetes Medicines?
Is it Safe to Take Turmeric with Diabetes Medicines?
YES, turmeric in the diet is perfectly safe to consume along with diabetes medications. However, turmeric supplements should be taken with care and at a gap of about 3-4 hours with diabetes medicines.
Curcumin, an active ingredient of turmeric assists in treatment, management and prevention of diabetes.
Studies have shown that curcumin, when taken with diabetes drugs has no adverse interactions. On the contrary, it gives better results and can inhibit the side effects of these medicines.
Care should be taken when taking turmeric with the medicines, as high dosage could lower blood glucose and result in hypoglycemia.
Let us take a look at what scientists have to say about these effects.
Curcumin found in turmeric can lower blood glucose levels and insulin resistance. It can also enhance the functioning of pancreatic cells which produce insulin. [ 1 ] [ 2 ]
The working mechanism of turmeric and anti-diabetic medicines is quite similar.
Curcuminoids and metformin, both target the AMP-activated protein kinase pathway which results in lowered blood glucose levels. [ 3 ] [ 4 ]
Curcumin improves insulin sensitivity and lipid parameters by inhibiting Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-) and reducing plasma free fatty acids. The drug rosiglitazone works in the same manner [ 5 ]
It assists in regulation of lipid levels, blood pressure and body weight, which decreases the risk of developing diabetes. [ 6 ] [ 7 ] [ 8 ]
Turmeric is also beneficial in the prevention and treatment of several other health complications which o
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