Negative Side Effects of Turmeric
Essential Turmeric Information
Turmeric has been used for a long time in Ayurvedic medicine. There are different medicinal properties of turmeric and several health benefits as well. It is a perennial shrub that grows in India and other places in Asia where there is tropical weather. Aside from the use of turmeric in medicine, it is also a popular spice that is used in several Indian dishes.
Turmeric offers a lot of health benefits; however, there is always the presence of a risk for turmeric side effects especially when it is taken the wrong way. The health benefits of turmeric can be attributable to its curcumin content.
Curcumin is responsible for the therapeutic effects, pungent flavor, and yellow color of turmeric. Among the benefits of turmeric include anti-inflammatory effects, antioxidant ability, protection against heart attacks and strokes by reducing blood clot formation, liver protection, and aids in fat digestion by promoting the flow of bile.
Turmeric has numerous benefits to the health. However, there are side effects of turmeric you need to be aware of as these can be harmful to the health. Here are five turmeric side effects and how to effectively avoid them.
Side Effects of Turmeric
1. Stomach Upset
Due to its spicy nature, taking turmeric for a long period of time can cause gastric upset. To help avoid this side effect, a supplement that makes use of an enteric coating is recommended so that the nutrients are absorbed in the small intestine while keeping the stomach free from any distress.
2. Utrine Stimulation
Turmeric is a uterine stimulant, which can encourage menstrual flow. Pregnant women and lactating mothers need to be careful when taking turmeric to avoid any harm to the baby.
3. Decreased Absorption
Turmeric has a tendency to not absorbed well when taken orally. However, this can easily be remedied by taking a multivitamin supplement that contains piperine as one of its active ingredients. Piperine will help promote absorption of turmeric so that you can get all the health benefits.
4. Bleeding
Since turmeric inhibits platelet aggregation to decrease blood clot formation, it can also lead to bleeding. It is important to take the right amount of turmeric to avoid turmeric side effects.
Choose a supplement that is of pharmaceutical grade, contains natural nutrients that work in synergy with one another, meets manufacturing standards, and one that contains standardized extracts of turmeric to ensure that you get the right amount, not too little and not too much.
It is also important to avoid turmeric if you are currently taking anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications.
5. Decreased Chemotherapy Effects
Studies have shown that turmeric may have an effect of chemotherapy, so it is best to avoid using turmeric supplements or taking turmeric in your diet while on chemotherapy treatment.
One of the best ways to avoid these side effects and take advantage of the health benefits of turmeric is to use a cutting-edge multivitamin brand that is completely natural and free from chemicals.
Final Suggestion
Talk with your doctor about any pre-existing health problems you may have before taking turmeric. Do not take turmeric if you have a personal history of gallstones, bile duct obstruction or gastrointestinal disorders. Improper use of turmeric by people with such health concerns may increase the severity of their symptoms. Women who are pregnant or nursing should also avoid treatment with turmeric in organic form or in capsules.