Curcumin extract improves beta cell functions in obese patients with type 2 diabetes: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract Background Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic condition characterized by insulin resistance and impaired insulin production, leading to elevated blood glucose levels. Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound from Curcuma longa, has shown potential in improving insulin sensitivity and reducing blood glucose levels, which may help mitigate type 2 diabetes progression. Objective To assess the efficacy of improving type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Study design This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial included subjects (n = 272) with criteria for type 2 diabetes. Methods All subjects were randomly assigned to receive curcumin (1500 mg/day) or placebo with blind labels for 12 months. To assess the improvement of T2DM after curcumin treatments body weight and body mass index, fasting plasma glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin A1c, β-cell function (homeostasis model assessment [HOMA-β]), insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), insulin, adiponectin, and leptin were monitored at the baseline and at 3-, 6-, 9-, and 12-month visits during the course of intervention. Results After 12 months of treatment, the curcumin-treated group showed a significant decrease in fasting blood glucose (115.49 vs.130.71; P