Evaluation of the effects of curcumin in patients with metabolic syndrome

Curcumin is a yellow pigment derived from rhizomes of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) and can affect multiple components metabolic syndrome (MetS). In the current study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of curcumin on several CVD risk factors, including indices of depression and anxiety in individuals with MetS. This randomized clinical trial was undertaken in the Nutrition Clinic of the Ghaem Hospital. One hundred and twenty subjects (18–65 years old) were randomly assigned to one of three treatment groups: a group receiving phospholipidated curcumin (PC) capsules (1 g/day) for 6 weeks )n = 40), a group receiving unformulated curcumin (UC) capsules (1 g/day) for 6 weeks (n = 40), and a control group who received a placebo capsule (n = 40). Socio-demographic status of all participants was documented using a self-administered questionnaire. Blood samples were collected after a 12-h fasting. All biochemical factors and anthropometric indices were measured in all patients at baseline and after 6 weeks intervention. Complete blood count (CBC), serum levels of FBG, lipid profile, apolipoproteins, and hs-CRP were assessed. Physical activity level was measured using a standard questionnaire. At the beginning and end of study, Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) were completed by all volunteers. According to the self-reported adverse effects, one subject in the PC-treated group reported hypersensitivity. Also, there were reports of cold sore (n = 1) and nausea (n = 1) in the UC group. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software. A total of 109 subjects completed the study. There were no significant differences between the three study groups for any of the variables at baseline, nor after the 6 weeks intervention, including anthropometric indices, serum biochemical factors, systolic and diastolic blood pressures, and CBC. However, subjects with severe anxiety appeared to be significantly improved by treatment with the PC and UC compared with the placebo group (p = 0.01). Curcumin supplementation did not improve any of the cardiovascular risk factors associated with MetS.