Effects of Curcumin/Turmeric Supplementation on Lipid Profile in Subjects With Prediabetes and Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Publisher Pubmed



Bahari H ; Malekahmadi M ; Shahraki Jazinaki M ; Asadi Z ; Soltaninejad K ; Golafrouz H
Source: Lipids Published:2026

Abstract

Dyslipidemia is a key comorbidity in prediabetes and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Curcumin, from turmeric, may improve lipid levels, but evidence is inconsistent. This meta-analysis evaluates its efficacy on lipid profiles in this population. We searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus until August 2025 for RCTs on curcumin/turmeric in adults with prediabetes/T2DM. Data on lipids (triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL-C, HDL-C) were pooled using a random-effects model, expressed as weighted mean differences (WMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Twenty-seven RCTs (31 arms) were included. Curcumin/turmeric supplementation significantly reduced triglycerides (WMD: −13.73 mg/dL; 95% CI: −19.49, −7.96), total cholesterol (WMD: −5.24 mg/dL; 95% CI: −9.42, −1.07), and LDL-C (WMD: −5.72 mg/dL; 95% CI: −8.62, −2.82) and increased HDL-C (WMD: 2.14 mg/dL; 95% CI: 1.08, 3.20). Effects on apolipoproteins were non-significant. Significant heterogeneity was observed (I2 > 80%). Subgroup analyses indicated greater benefits in diabetic patients, those with higher baseline lipids, and with specific formulations. The certainty of evidence (GRADE) was low for all outcomes. Curcumin/turmeric supplementation yields modest improvements in the lipid profile of individuals with prediabetes and diabetes. However, significant heterogeneity and low certainty of evidence limit the robustness and clinical applicability of these findings. Therefore, the results should be interpreted with caution. Future trials should prioritize enhanced formulations and longer durations. © 2026 AOCS.