The effects of curcumin supplementation on physiological and biochemical markers of type 2 diabetes in healthy volunteers: A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

Abstract

Background - Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition in which cells have reduced insulin signalling, leading to hyperglycemia and long-term global and systemic complications. Disease pathogenesis is associated with obesity-related inflammation and oxidative stress. Curcumin is a highly potent pleiotropic molecule which has demonstrated a host of anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and glucose-lowering activities, indicating its potential as a valuable alternative to conventional treatment of type 2 diabetes. Extensive research has indicated the efficacy of curcumin and its analogs at a range of doses, however the optimum dose and duration is yet to be established. Aims & Objectives - To investigate the effect of curcumin supplementation on typical physiological and biochemical markers of type 2 diabetes, in a cohort of healthy volunteers. Methods - Fourteen healthy volunteers, aged 18 - 45 years, with a BMI of between 18.5 to 29.9kg/m2 participated in a randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial. Participants were supplemented with either 1.9g of curcumin (n=7) or placebo (n=7) daily for 7 days. Dietary intake was assessed pre- and mid-intervention. Physical activity levels were assessed at baseline only. Blood pressure, blood glucose concentration, total cholesterol, pulse wave velocity and augmentation index were assessed at baseline and post-intervention, and a comparison made between intervention and control groups. Results - The study found that curcumin supplementation at a dose of 1.9g per day over seven days induced a statistically significant decrease (p=0.02) in glucose area under the curve. No statistically significant changes in blood pressure, pulse wave velocity or augmentation index were observed. Results for cholesterol were inconclusive due to technical error. Conclusion - Curcumin supplementation at a dose of 1.9g/day for 7 days has shown a reduction in glucose AUC measurements, indicating that administration at this dose may enhance glucose disposal. Keywords: Curcumin, type 2 diabetes mellitus, hyperglycaemia, arterial stiffness Inflammation