There are many so called “magical” supplements out there that promise to treat or to prevent a wide variety of diseases. But most of them are only backed up by personal opinions or companies trying to sell their supplements. One of the most researched products of the last decade and one that is well documented is curcumin. This is the main compound found in turmeric, the orange spice that gives curry its colour. It has been used for thousands of years in the Indian and Chinese traditional medicine, and scientists are now able to confirm its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In this article we will find some of its uses and benefits and also learn how long it takes for turmeric to work for weight loss?
Turmeric and Weight Loss
People are always looking for the quickest and easiest method of losing weight fast. But unfortunately, there are no shortcuts to burning fat and keeping it off for good. The best and most efficient methods are: a healthy diet with a caloric deficit, and physical activity.
However, there are certain supplements that can aid the weight loss process. They do not have any effect on their own, but they do complement and support the body’s natural ability to burn fat. Turmeric is definitely one of those supplements thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and the effects it has on blood sugar.
A study analyzed the effects of taking curcumin on 44 overweight people that had a metabolic syndrome. The results of the study were that:
- weight loss was enhanced from 1.88% to 4.91%
- the reduction of body fat went from 0.7% to 8.43%
- waistline reduction increased from 2.36% to 4.14%
- hip circumference reduction increased from 0.74% to 2.51%
- BMI reduction increased from 2.10% to 6.43%
This is just one example, but there are plenty of other studies that supported these claims. Curcumin interacts directly with the fat tissue and reduces chronic inflammation. It also induces adiponectin expression, which regulates levels of blood sugar and breaks down the fatty acids.
Make sure to always combine curcumin with black pepper extract (piperine) for improved absorption. For example, you can use our powerful turmeric capsules that already have piperine included. The black pepper extract itself also has weight-loss benefits.
Turmeric Dosage For Weight Loss
The usual accepted dosage of curcumin for most health problems is between 500 and 2,000 mg per day, broken down in 2 or 3 doses. Curcumin has been shown to be safe and tolerable at even much higher dosages, but that’s not necessary unless prescribed by a doctor.
The number of capsules to take each day or the amount of turmeric powder to use really depends on the amount of curcumin each product contains. For even better results, you can also drink turmeric tea throughout the day or sprinkle some powder in your food.
How Long Does It Take For Turmeric To Work For Weight Loss?
Just like with all the other health issues that can be treated or prevented with turmeric, the results associated with long term use. The minimum amount of time to take it would be 4 weeks, but ideally, 8 to 12 weeks.
Even if you wanted to lose weight without any added supplements, you still would have to be in a caloric deficit for 1 to 3 months (or much more depending on how much weight you want to lose). So it’s obvious that you need to take turmeric for just as long. Taking huge dosages on the short term will not speed up the weight loss process. So just be patient and think on the long term.
Curcumin is known to have low bioavailability and to degraded and eliminated quickly by the body. It is reported to have a half-life of 6-7 hours when taken as a turmeric extract, so that’s why it is best to take 2 or 3 dosages throughout the day instead of a single large one.
Turmeric Side Effects
Results may depend on age, activity levels, weight, other medication, the severity of the disease (or obesity) and the quality of the supplement. Turmeric supplements should be avoided by children and pregnant women, and there is not enough data regarding the safety of this product for breastfeeding women. If you have gallbladder problems, diabetes, certain cancers or other diseases, it’s better to consult with your doctor before starting any treatment with curcumin. Please note that turmeric products can interfere with some medication.
Side effects have been noted by few people. These side effects included easy bruising or bleeding (turmeric is a blood thinner), low levels of blood sugar, reduced iron absorption, increased risk of kidney stones or gallbladder disease, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation or allergy. If any of these symptoms occur, consult with your doctor immediately.
This article has highlighted some of the fabulous benefits of curcumin, and how long it takes for turmeric to work for weight loss. Make sure to stick to the treatment and then let us know your results in the comments area below. For a wide variety of turmeric products, you can check out this page.
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