Be Careful! Turmeric Has Weird Side Effects! 

What are the side effects of turmeric? Actually, a few people have reported iron deficiency and stomach upset. In addition, high doses of turmeric have been observed to cause:

• Issues During Pregnancy

When consumed orally in medicinal amounts during pregnancy, turmeric might trigger a menstrual period or even stimulate the uterus. This can put the pregnancy at risk (71).

• Causes Stomach Upset

When taken in large amounts, turmeric can upset the digestive health. In certain cases, it can stimulate the stomach to produce more gastric acid, leading to discomfort.

• Kidney Stones

In susceptible individuals, there is an increased risk of kidney stones. Hence, people suffering from kidney stones must consult their doctor before using turmeric (72).

• Increased Risk Of Bleeding

Turmeric might slow blood clotting, and this can increase the risk of bleeding in individuals with bleeding disorders. Also, stop using turmeric at least 2 weeks before surgery. 

• Might Make Blood Sugar Too Low

It can make blood sugar too low in people who are already taking blood sugar or diabetes medications.

• Infertility In Men

It might lower testosterone levels and decrease sperm movement if it is consumed orally by men. Hence, the spice must be used with caution in people trying to have a baby.

• Iron Deficiency

Excess amounts of turmeric might prevent the absorption of iron. Individuals with iron deficiency must use turmeric with caution.

And talking about turmeric dosage, this is how it goes:

– Dried root, 2 to 2.5 grams per day

– Turmeric powder, 1,200 to 1,800 milligrams per day

– Turmeric tea, ½ ounce of the turmeric root in 4 ½ ounces of boiling water (to be taken twice daily)

– Water-based extract, 30 to 90 drops of aqueous turmeric extract per day

All fine. But we have been lately hearing about turmeric supplements. What’s with them?

What Are Turmeric Supplements?

Capsules containing turmeric powder – that’s all they are. But their reliability is questionable. This is because the dosage of turmeric varies from person to person (depending on their health conditions). But a turmeric curcumin supplement has a fixed dosage – something that cannot be altered (unlike in the case of turmeric powder).

Also, certain supplements of turmeric might interact with medications that you already might be taking (73). Consult your doctor in this regard.