This may sound unbelievable. Of course, how can turmeric have side effects? Anything else in this world, but turmeric?  Turmeric. It does have side effects.

Let’s take a look at what are the side effects of turmeric?

Increased Risk Of Bleeding

Taking turmeric has been found to slow blood clotting. This can eventually increase the risk of bruising and bleeding in people who are suffering from bleeding disorders. Turmeric might also interact with certain medications and cause excessive bleeding.

Prevention Method

Stomach Issues And GERD

Turmeric hasn’t been found to cause any kind of stomach issues or other gastrointestinal reactions when consumed as a part of a cooked curry. But in the case of turmeric intake for chronic conditions like arthritis or aching joints, it may lead to gastrintestinal issues.

High doses of turmeric for extended periods of time has also been found to cause gastrointestinal problems.

Also, if you are currently suffering from dyspepsia or hyperacidity, it’s better you totally avoid turmeric usage.

Even turmeric supplements might cause issues of the stomach. Especially in adults who consume more than the recommended dosage (400 mg to 3 g) of the supplements for prolonged periods of time. Turmeric can also cause heartburn and indigestion.

Prevention Method

Ensure you take turmeric only within the recommended dosage.

 Raise Gallbladder Contractions

Turmeric contains significant amounts of oxalate, which is a chemical that can increase the risk of gallstones. In one study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, turmeric had significantly increased the levels of oxalate in urine as compared to placebo.

Turmeric supplements of 20 – 40 mg were also reported to increase gallbladder contractions.

Prevention Method

Stop taking turmeric if you have any type of gallbladder issues or if you are on medication for the same.

Lower Blood Pressure

Well, this could sound like a benefit. But lowering blood pressure way too much can cause complications.

High doses of turmeric can lower blood pressure, and hence individuals on blood pressure medications must exercise caution while consuming turmeric.

Prevention Method

Avoid turmeric if you are already on blood pressure medication.

Risk Of Kidney Stones

Too much of turmeric might increase the risk of kidney stones. This is because of the presence of oxalates in turmeric. The oxalates can bind to calcium to form insoluble calcium oxalate, which is primarily responsible for kidney stones. Hence, if you have a tendency to form kidney stones, turmeric is a strict NO for you.

In one study, turmeric ingestion had lead to a higher urinary oxalate excretion when compared to cinnamon, thereby substantiating the fact that it can cause kidney stones.

Prevention Method

Avoid turmeric if you are have any kind of kidney issues, especially kidney stones.

Pregnant And Breastfeeding Women

According to The University of Maryland Medical Center, turmeric is safe for pregnant women only when it is used as a spice in food dishes. Turmeric supplements must be avoided during pregnancy. And in case you are allergic to turmeric, it is best to avoid it during pregnancy.

Most importantly, there is not enough information available on turmeric side effects on pregnant and breastfeeding women. And since they are crucial periods in any woman’s life, it is best to keep turmeric away temporarily.

Turmeric has been rarely studied in breastfeeding women, and it is quite unknown if its active compounds would pass through breast milk. The resultant effects on breastfed infants are also unknown.

Prevention Method

As there is insufficient information in this regard, avoiding turmeric completely during pregnancy and breastfeeding will be ideal

Diarrhea And Nausea

Diarrhea and nausea are two of the common symptoms associated with turmeric supplementation. This is because curcumin in turmeric has a tendency to irritate the gastrointestinal tract.

As per certain clinical studies, individuals that supplemented with 3.6 to 8 grams of curcumin per day for 4 months experienced mild nausea (3.6 to 8 grams of curcumin per day is a relatively high dose). Even low doses of curcumin can provoke nausea in certain individuals.

Prevention Method

Take turmeric within limit. If you observe any symptoms, stop the intake and consult your doctor immediately.

Cause Allergic Reactions

Curcumin can be a contact allergen. Certain individuals have reported contact dermatitis and urticaria due to contact with turmeric. Since turmeric belongs to the ginger family, one is more likely to be allergic to it if (s)he is allergic to ginger. You can also be allergic to turmeric if you are allergic to yellow food colouring.

Turmeric can also cause skin outbreaks like rashes and shortness of breath. Reactions can occur from both skin contact and ingestion.

Prevention Method

If you have an allergy for yellow food colouring, it’s best to stay away from turmeric.

Cause Iron Deficiency

As per studies, compounds in turmeric were found to bind to iron. This could decrease the body’s ability to absorb iron from food, thereby leading to iron deficiency.

Prevention Method

If you are already deficient in iron, avoid turmeric and consult your doctor regarding its usage. Check your iron levels in your blood before regularly including turmeric in your diet.

Risky During Surgery

This has again to do with turmeric’s tendency to inhibit the blood-clotting process. Patients who are considering surgery must refrain from consuming turmeric one to two weeks before surgery.

Prevention Method

If you are considering surgery, you must refrain from consuming turmeric one to two weeks before surgery.

Turmeric could have been that one single spice that always enjoyed a reputed status in every household. But yes, even it has got side effects. This doesn’t mean you totally eliminate it from your diet – as it comes with its fair share of benefits. Use it in moderation and as required. And, if you have any of the conditions mentioned in this post, temporarily stop its usage.

Culled from stylecraze.com