Curcumin Can Counteract Cholesterol

Metabolic Syndrome is a name for the various risk factors that are associated with the onset of type 2 diabetes or cardiovascular disease.  People with large waistlines, hypertension, high blood sugar and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels, are most at risk for developing these diseases.

Turmeric’s active ingredient curcumin, which gives curry its yellow color, has displayed anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities.  In a study performed by scientists at the Chung Shan Medical University, 65 men and women with Metabolic Syndrome were divided into two groups, whereby half the participants received 630mg of curcumin 3 times per day and the control group received a placebo for 12 weeks.  The results showed an increase in high-density lipoprotein (good) cholesterol levels from 31 to 43 mg/dL, a decrease in low-density lipoprotein (bad) cholesterol levels from 121 to 107 mg/dL and an overall decline in triglyceride levels by an average 65 mg/dL.

A daily dose of curcumin is therefore beneficial in helping with cholesterol issues, especially in people with Metabolic Syndrome.