There are dozens of different botanical dietary supplements and turmeric is among the three most popular ones.
Curcumin, the main ingredient of turmeric, is frequently used in many different dishes because it makes the food tastier and gives it specific yellow color. In addition, the chances of any side effects caused by this ingredient are minimal.
However, even natural products can lead to certain problems in some people. Not all natural ingredients are safe and non-toxic.
For instance, both cyanide and strychnine are completely natural. As we have mentioned, turmeric typically doesn’t lead to some major side effects, but it can lead to nausea, stomach upset, diarrhea or dizziness in some people.
If you make a combination of large amount of curcumin and black pepper, you will actually take an amount equal to 29 cups of turmeric on a daily basis. Such quantity will probably lead to hypertension and it can also result in DNA damage in vitro.
Stop Using Turmeric if You Belong to These 6 Types of People
Now let’s see which categories of people should stop using turmeric.
1. Pregnant women or breastfeeding moms
Putting a small amount of turmeric to your meals is a better option than consumption of turmeric supplements especially when women are pregnant. During this period of time and when women are breastfeeding, turmeric consumption is perfectly safe when taken orally in quantities that are typically found in some foods. It is potentially dangerous to take medicinal amounts of turmeric in this period. If you don’t stick to these recommendations you can experience stimulation of the uterus and changes in the menstrual period.
Additionally, turmeric has the ability to reduce testosterone levels and sperm mobility when men take it orally. The final result is reduced fertility. So, in case you are trying to conceive a baby, consume turmeric moderately or avoid it.
2. People suffering from Gallstones
A review published not while ago claims that turmeric can intensify gallbladder pain in people suffering from this condition. Those who are dealing with bile duct blockage or gallstones should stay away from turmeric.
On the other hand, curcumin keeps the liver safe and protects the body from gallstones because it acts as a cholecystokinetic agent. In other words, it supports the work of gallbladder with the help of the bile.
3. People suffering from Biliary Tract Obstruction
People dealing with biliary tract obstruction must be cautious when it comes to curcumin consumption. However, all other people should know that curcumin supports the gallbladder to be emptied to the maximum which ultimately means lower chances of developing gallstones and cancer.
4. People suffering from Kidney Stones
The chances of developing kidney stones are increased if you consume large quantities of turmeric. This spice is packed with soluble oxalates, substances that can attach to calcium and result in insoluble calcium oxalate. This compound is the direct cause of more than 70% of kidney stones.
In case you are prone to developing kidney stones, you should definitely use only small quantities of turmeric. You should also take not more than 40 mg of dietary oxalate per day. This amount equals one teaspoon of turmeric which is enough to spice up your meals.
5. Diabetics
Diabetics who take curcumin are at risk of lowering blood sugar. This group of people must use curcumin carefully because it can break the balance of blood sugar levels.
6. People preparing for surgery
Taking turmeric might lead to reduced blood clotting and excessive bleeding while the surgery is conducted or after that. Those preparing for surgery should avoid consumption of turmeric about 15 days before the surgery.
Via Web MD