Turmeric Benefits For Diabetes?

If you thinking is turmeric good for diabetes? Yes, turmeric is a versatile spice that lends a customary yellow tinge to Asian food preparations, turmeric (or Haldi) is a spice readily available in Indian households. Made from the ground root of the turmeric plant, it is also used in its freshly-extracted, raw form in India. Eastern and alternative medicines have long hailed turmeric for its healing properties – from applying on wounds to consuming with milk for its recuperative and immunity-building properties. It is used to aid liver and digestive functions and to ease pain, including aches caused by arthritis. 

Turmeric, which has recently gained popularity worldwide, contains over 100 chemical compounds. Often called the ‘golden spice,’ turmeric has a miracle compound called curcumin that is its key to fighting disease. Curcumin is what imparts turmeric its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Another quality of turmeric is its ability to fight against diabetes. Research has shown that turmeric helps reduce blood sugar levels. However, one should not go overboard, as turmeric can bring blood sugar levels down to unsafe levels. A dosage as little as 300 mg of curcumin has been shown to help manage blood sugar levels. Ideally, one should take between 150 mg and 250 mg of curcumins each day. Black pepper extract helps enhance absorption of the same. Turmeric and ground black pepper are the key ingredients that make turmeric milk good for diabetes.

General Benefits of Turmeric

Studies have indicated that turmeric could also help prevent cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Its antioxidant properties help fight infection and inflammation, so it is given to people recovering from injuries, cold and respiratory tract infections. Several studies have proven turmeric to help treat diabetes, heart disease, depression, allergies, multiple sclerosis, and even Alzheimer’s disease. Curcumin’s antioxidant properties aid the body’s fight against free radicals caused by exposure to pollution, pesticides, unhealthy food, smoking and drinking. 

Doctors and nutritionists are frequently asked, “Can a diabetic patient drink turmeric milk at night?” The answer is an obvious ‘yes.’ To avoid causing a spike in blood sugar levels, don’t add sugar and use low-fat milk. Combine turmeric and diabetes medication prescribed by your doctor. Do not completely replace it with turmeric. Include vegetables and fibre in your diet, exercise regularly and quit smoking and drinking to switch to a healthy way of life. Also know about best medicine for diabetes in India.

Benefits of Turmeric in Diabetes

Aptly named the ‘miracle spice,’ turmeric boasts many health benefits, including those for diabetics. Its component curcumin decreases blood glucose levels with regular consumption and prevents diabetes-related complications. Turmeric increases insulin sensitivity; it can play an important role in stabilising blood sugar levels.

Adding turmeric to your daily diet can also help manage weight. The component curcumin helps prevent fat tissue growth in vital organs. With fewer fatty deposits in the body’s blood vessels, you can avoid diabetes-related complications caused by obesity. 

Turmeric is beneficial for individuals with impaired glucose tolerance or pre-diabetes. It stabilises blood sugar levels and prevents progression to the next stage. 

Individuals who consumed turmeric over long periods reported fewer symptoms of complications like fatty liver disease or damage to the retina. 

Turmeric decreases the body’s triglycerides, balances cholesterol levels and boosts heart health.

Turmeric protects the kidneys and helps heal wounds faster.

If you wonder whether there is anything common between turmeric side effects, diabetes and curcumin toxicity, be assured that the extract consumed in recommended doses is good for your health. Turmeric is safe for consumption, and only large doses of curcumin (over 4 grams per day) will cause unpleasant side effects. It is best to consult a doctor before starting any turmeric supplements. Start in small doses to ensure it does not trigger any allergies. Know about Indian breakfast for diabetes .

How does Turmeric help in Blood Sugar Management?

The role of turmeric in blood sugar management heavily draws from curcumin. The lifestyle disease itself is linked to inflammation and oxidative stress, which causes insulin resistance. This alters insulin secretion, leading to uncontrolled blood sugar levels. 

Turmeric helps reduce sugar with its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties by boosting insulin production in the body. Studies on turmeric and insulin resistance indicate that curcumin can help lower HbA1C, representing a three-month blood sugar average, apart from lowering fasting blood sugar, insulin sensitivity and preventing weight gain. Since the spice is low-carb, adding it directly to food also does not affect blood sugar levels.

Different Ways to consume Turmeric

Considering the number of health benefits this spice offers, it is good to consume turmeric for insulin resistance. While the spice is used in small quantities in food preparations, you can also find its extract in over-the-counter supplements. You can spice up your dietary menu by adding this golden spice to beverages and dishes. Try out the following combinations for a healthy-haldi fix:

• A golden combo: Touted as an immunity-boosting drink, turmeric milk has recently gone global with all its golden benefits. Turmeric milk, or Haldi doodh, has been a bedtime drink for generations in India. Simply add turmeric, boil milk and let it simmer for some time. Have it warm in the morning or at bedtime. 
• Pepper your drink: Adding powdered black pepper to turmeric milk aids the absorption of curcumin in the body. Just boil milk, add turmeric and add black pepper once it has cooled. The combination of piperine, the phytochemical in black pepper, and curcumin prevent damage to blood vessels.
• Spice up your golden milk: Add a pinch of cinnamon to turmeric milk and consume it in the morning. Both spices are known to lower insulin and triglycerides, making it a power-packed combo.
• Root extract: Stock up on turmeric root extract, which is the easiest way to consume your recommended curcumin doses. It helps reduce insulin resistance that causes uncontrolled blood sugar levels.
• Turmeric tea: Daily sipping on turmeric tea, or turmeric latte, can lower inflammation and boost immunity. Add two teaspoons of freshly-grated turmeric to a cup of hot water. Top it up with half a lemon and crushed black pepper. You can add grated ginger and cinnamon powder for some extra health benefits.
• Brew some golden coconut milk: This drink combines coconut milk, ginger, turmeric and black pepper (optional). Heat the coconut milk for 2-3 minutes, whisking constantly, then add the spices. Do not boil the milk. Consume immediately.

Bottomline

Various studies have established the link between turmeric and insulin resistance. The curcumin present in the spice helps stabilise blood sugar levels by aiding insulin production, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. If you have asked yourself the question: is haldi good for diabetes, the answer is in the affirmative. Include turmeric root extract or try one of the recipes mentioned above to manage your blood sugar levels. Also know about fasting blood sugar level.

FAQ

Does turmeric lower blood sugar?

Although it has been suggested that turmeric may lower blood sugar levels, additional studies are required to determine the efficiency and safety of turmeric in the treatment of diabetes. Before using turmeric or any other substance to control blood sugar, speak with a medical expert.

How quickly does turmeric lower blood sugar?

The rate at which turmeric may lower blood sugar levels is not well understood because it varies depending on a number of variables, including dosage, personal response, and general health. The precise timing of turmeric's impact on blood sugar levels requires more investigation. Before using turmeric or any other substance to control blood sugar, speak with a medical expert.

Is turmeric good for diabetes type 2?

Due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities, turmeric has been researched for its potential benefits in treating type 2 diabetes, but further research is required to determine its efficacy and safety. For individualised guidance on the use of turmeric or any other supplements for managing diabetes, speak with a competent healthcare expert.

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