How Turmeric Supports Weight Loss

Published July 07, 2015

A healthy weight loss program only works to produce sustaining results when exercise is combined with the right dietary approaches. While other components play a role, such as proper sleep and sunlight exposure, incorporating certain foods in your daily meals could really give your weight loss efforts a substantial boost. Turmeric is one of those foods. The active compound in turmeric–curcumin–could in fact halt the infiltration of fat tissue throughout the body by inhibiting angiogenesis. Could turmeric be the missing piece in helping you get the body you want?

Turmeric: The Magic Component for Weight Loss

Managing weight is a constant issue for many people, and years of research has been searching to find answers to the centuries-long quest for lasting weight loss. A study performed at Tufts University was curious to see whether turmeric–an ancient spice that contains numerous benefits–could produce favorable changes in body mass index. ^[1] A 12-week study in mice compared the effects of turmeric on a high-fat diet, administering a very small amount of curcumin daily of about 1.5 to 1.75 milligrams.

In comparison to the non-supplemented group of mice, those that were receiving turmeric gained less weight and body fat throughout the duration of the study. The mice taking curcumin during the 12 week period also had less blood vessel growth present in fat tissue, and blood sugar, cholesterol, liver fat, and triglycerides were remarkably lower. While the study didn't show if turmeric as used in cuisine could initiate an impact, it does show that turmeric extract may be a beneficial supplement when attempting to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.

How Does Turmeric Work for Weight Loss?

The exact mechanisms behind turmeric's weight loss capabilities is still unclear; however, there is some evidence cluing us into its basic effects. For one, turmeric is one of the most powerful spices for reducing irritation in the body, and this irritation is one of the leading factors behind obesity and every other debilitating disease. Turmeric also rates high on the ORAC antioxidant scale. ^[2] Antioxidants are not only helpful for protecting DNA and cells from oxidative damage, they're also extremely useful for reducing fat accumulation.

Do you use turmeric regularly? Please let us know if it's been helping you!

-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM

References:

USDA/Agricultural Research Service. Compound In Turmeric Spice May Stall Spread Of Fat Tissue. ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 25 May 2009.
Sahdeo Prasad and Bharat B. Aggarwal. Turmeric, the Golden Spice. Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects. 2nd edition.

The post How Turmeric Supports Weight Loss appeared first on Dr. Group's Natural Health & Organic Living Blog.

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