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    Turmeric Curcumin for Prediabetes

    Turmeric is famous as a treatment for many ailments. It has been used since ancient times and has become more popular these days. Turmeric is made up of two bioactive components. These include volatile oil and curcuminoids. Curcuminoids further comprise of monodemethoxycurcumin, curcumin and bisdemethoxycurcumin. The three are natural antioxidants and are responsible for the yellow color of turmeric. As you can see, turmeric is full of antioxidants that are good for the body.

    A study published in the journal of Diabetes Association showed that curcumin extract was 100% efficient in preventing prediabetic patients from progressing to diabetes type 2. The 237 individuals who took part in the study each received three curcumin capsules twice per day or placebo capsules. The turmeric capsules contained 240 milligrams curcuminoids. At the end of the study, 16% of those on placebo developed diabetes. There was no case of diabetes among those who received curcumin tablets. This is a very promising result for those who are living with diabetes.

    Diabetes is a metabolic condition where the blood sugar levels in the body remain higher than normal. In prediabetes, the blood sugar level is high but lower than what is experienced in diabetes. Prediabetic patients are at a high risk of progressing into diabetes. However, several measures can be taken to prevent this. This includes a regular intake of turmeric capsules.

    According to experts, curcumin prevents progression of prediabetes by maintaining a healthy beta cell function. Beta cells are the cells involved in the production of insulin in the pancreas. Insulin is the hormone that is responsible for blood sugar regulation in the body. Curcumin improves the function of these cells and protects them from damage.

    One of the health benefits of curcumin is that it aids in weight loss. A high BMI is a risk factor for diabetes. Prediabetic patients are advised to maintain an optimal body weight so as to avoid progressing into Type 2 diabetes. Curcumin accelerates weight loss thus reducing the risk of progression. However, patients should not rely on turmeric alone to lose weight. A good diet and regular exercise is essential too. So remember to combine all of these factors to make sure that you maintain your good health.

    Curcumin also aids in management of prediabetes complications. It is likely for a prediabetic patient to develop symptoms like those seen in diabetics. Some of the complications include inflammation, oxidative stress, neuropathy, cardio vascular health problems and hypertension among many others. Curcumin helps in prevention and management of these complications. It is better to start early before things become more complicated as a result of the progression into diabetes.

    Studies also show that curcumin reduces insulin resistance that comes as a result of high glucose levels. With increased insulin production, reduced insulin resistance, managed complications and an optimal weight, prediabetes can reduce chances of progression and lead a healthier life. However, the use of turmeric curcumin for prediabetes is only supplementary. Medical care and other management techniques should be considered as well.

    Maggie Martin
    Maggie Martin
    Maggie Martin is completing her PhD in Cell Biology, works as a lab tech for Mybiosource and contributes content on Biotech, Life Sciences, and Viral Outbreaks. Follow on Twitter @MaggieBiosource

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