Spice that has ‘similar effects to Metformin’ helps lower blood sugar

Health specialists have identified a common kitchen spice that could have blood sugar-lowering effects comparable to medications frequently prescribed to individuals with or at risk of type 2 diabetes. Dubbed a ‘powerhouse’ in the spice world, turmeric is celebrated not only for its anti-inflammatory attributes but also for its active ingredient, curcumin.

“Curcumin has anti-diabetic properties and effects similar to Metformin,” states Dr Eric Berg, DC, an expert in ketogenic dieting, low-carb techniques, and intermittent fasting. The well-regarded health educator leads Dr Berg Nutritionals and is the author behind The Healthy Keto and Get Healthy First.

Like Metformin, which acts by reducing glucose production in the liver and increasing the body’s sensitivity to insulin—the essential hormone managing blood sugar levels—curcumin can also mitigate blood sugar spikes. It helps the body utilise glucose more effectively, benefiting not just the liver but muscles, too.

Much like Metformin, curcumin works by inhibiting hepatic gluconeogenesis, the process where the liver creates glucose from non-carbohydrate sources. It also boosts insulin sensitivity, enabling cells to react more adequately to insulin and to use glucose in a more efficient manner.

Turmeric and curcumin, while closely related, are not the same. Turmeric is a spice derived from a plant and is commonly used in supplements, reports Surrey Live. Curcumin, on the other hand, is a compound found in turmeric, specifically a type of curcuminoid, which gives turmeric its distinctive yellow colour. Both turmeric and curcumin are frequently used as spices in curry powders, mustards, and various other foods.

What is type 2 diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition characterised by the body’s inability to produce enough insulin or its ineffectiveness in using the insulin it does produce, leading to high blood sugar levels. This state, often referred to as insulin resistance, can result in complications such as heart disease, kidney problems, and nerve damage.

Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, is crucial for allowing glucose from food to enter cells for energy. When the body either doesn’t produce sufficient insulin or the cells resist its effects, glucose builds up in the bloodstream. Over time, this high blood sugar can damage blood vessels and nerves, causing serious health issues.

The exact causes of type 2 diabetes are not fully understood, but it is often associated with factors such as being overweight or obese and having a family history of the disease, according to Diabetes UK. Common symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue.

Diagnosis of diabetes is typically made through blood tests, such as measuring fasting blood glucose levels or the HbA1c test. Management of the condition often necessitates lifestyle modifications, including alterations in diet and exercise, and sometimes medication, which may include insulin.

Why is curcumin beneficial for blood sugar levels?

Diabetes is often associated with persistent inflammation and oxidative stress. Curcumin’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can help tackle these issues. It has the potential to enhance the activity of antioxidant enzymes, further mitigating oxidative stress in diabetes models.

Curcumin could potentially improve insulin sensitivity by increasing the production of proteins that enable glucose absorption into cells. It may help reduce insulin resistance, a key feature of type 2 diabetes.

It can also enhance beta cell function, which is vital for insulin production. The glucose-lowering effects of curcumin are believed to be linked to its ability to:

• Boost the expression of glucose transporter proteins (GLUT4, GLUT2, GLUT3).
• Activate AMPK, an enzyme involved in glucose metabolism.
• Diminish inflammation, which can lead to insulin resistance.

Curcumin is the most extensively researched curcuminoid. It may also aid in improving blood pressure, safeguarding your heart, and reducing your risk of heart disease.

What do studies reveal?

Curcumin, the active component in turmeric, might just be a diabetic’s best friend according to recent findings from the National Institutes of Health. The study has shown that curcumin can lower blood sugar levels and enhance metabolic health, potentially offering a powerful tool in managing diabetes.

Further research supports this claim by suggesting that curcumin can boost insulin sensitivity, aiding in the more effective regulation of blood sugar. Recent studies have uncovered even more benefits, positing that curcumin could possibly prevent or delay the onslaught of type 2 diabetes, a condition plaguing millions globally.

Intriguing results were published in 2019, which revealed: “The combination of metformin with curcumin decreased dyslipidemia and TBARS levels in diabetic rats… These findings indicated that curcumin combined with metformin… might be a promising strategy for combating diabetic complications, mainly the cardiovascular events.”

Insights from a December 2024 study further bolster curcumin’s status: “The combination of metformin and curcumin demonstrates superior efficacy in improving lipid profiles [and] glucose metabolism.”

When it comes to jointly using Metformin and curcumin, the consensus indicates a positive interaction. Researchers found that “curcumin exerts synergistic anti-inflammation with metformin with no potential adverse effects“. Research featured in Pharmacia echoed similar sentiments, declaring: “Curcumin is comparable to metformin.”

This conclusion springs from a research focus on curcumin’s effectiveness in treating PCOS in rat models. Another noteworthy investigation which examined the connection between gut microbiota and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) discovered that “both curcumin and metformin have a therapeutic effect against NAFLD and play a role in modulating the gut microbiota.”

Curcumin, the active ingredient found in turmeric, has gained attention not just as a culinary staple but also for its potential health benefits. It has been the subject of research looking into its ability to prevent and treat certain types of cancer possibly.

Is curcumin good for cholesterol, too?

What’s more, it may also be beneficial for cholesterol management. Dr Berg highlighted the spice’s cholesterol-stabilising properties, stating: “Research has shown that curcumin has benefits similar to statins and can help reduce LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.”

Curcumin has the potential to improve glucose tolerance and lipid profiles. In research conducted in 2019, curcumin was found to enhance insulin sensitivity and better lipid profiles in rat models of type 2 diabetes.

Are there any important considerations?

Animal research suggests that curcumin might significantly lower blood sugar levels and increase insulin sensitivity. Human studies have pointed towards its possible role in improving blood sugar regulation, particularly in those at risk or having prediabetes or diabetes. Although findings from animal tests look positive, more human-centered research is necessary to fully grasp curcumin’s impact on diabetes.

For anyone managing their blood sugar through prescribed medication, adhering strictly to medical guidance is imperative. And should you be considering incorporating curcumin supplements into your regimen, consulting with your GP beforehand is essential.

It’s crucial to be aware that curcumin supplements can interfere with certain medications, including blood thinners, and should therefore be discussed with a healthcare professional prior to use. Additionally, while curcumin is generally safe, consuming it in large quantities may cause minor digestive issues for some individuals. For more information on this, refer to the NHS website.

When selecting supplements, ensure they come from trusted sources and have third-party certifications. Remember that curcumin’s effects can differ among individuals, so it’s crucial to keep an eye on your blood sugar levels and modify your treatment plan accordingly.