Curcumin Supplements May Help Lower Triglycerides and LDL Cholesterol in People With Heart Disease

Coronary artery disease is a result of plaque buildup in the coronary arteries that leads to blockages. A recent study suggests that taking a daily supplement of curcumin may help lower blood levels of triglycerides and LDL cholesterol in people with coronary artery disease.

Participants in the study included 33 people with coronary artery disease, one of the most common types of heart disease. Over the course of two months, they were given either 500 mg of curcumin four times per day or a placebo, in addition to their regular treatments.

Lipid profile, blood glucose and high-sensitive C-reactive protein levels were measured at baseline and two months after treatment. The measurements showed that the curcumin group had significantly lower LDL and triglyceride levels when compared with their baseline values. They also had significantly lower VLDL levels when compared with the placebo.

No significant effects were noted for HDL cholesterol or C-reactive protein levels.

Researchers from the Tehran University of Medical Sciences conducted the study. It was published in the Spring 2015 issue of the Iranian Journal of Pharmaceutical Research.

Other recent studies have suggested curcumin  may also improve joint health, cognitive function, and boost immune and blood sugar health. For the most part, these benefits have been attributed to the anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin.