Doctor says 'superfood' is as good as statins for lowering cholesterol and blood sugar

Dr Eric Berg DC, who is known as The Knowledge Doc, shared the benefits of taking half a teaspoon of the 'superfood' which has been found to help reduce cholesterol

A health guru has spilled the beans on a superfood that's capturing everyone's attention for its cholesterol-crushing prowess. Half a teaspoon's all you need, and it just might rival statins in the battle against 'bad' cholesterol.

Meet turmeric, the cupboard staple that Dr Eric Berg DC the Knowledge Doc famed for his expertise in healthy ketosis and intermittent fasting gives two thumbs up. Boasting over 12 million followers, Dr Berg took to YouTube to tout turmeric's remarkable health perks and his recipe for transforming it into a rejuvenating beverage.

He suggests that a simple blend of turmeric and water can double as a tasty tea with cholesterol-lowering superpowers. On the timing front, Dr Berg recommends sipping on turmeric water first thing in the morning or right before hitting the hay. Given the average Brit nods off between 10-11pm, he implies post-9pm could be an ideal time window for the drink.

Alternatively, why not shake up your morning routine and trade in the caffeinated kickstarter or sugary cuppa for this invigorating concoction? Or have it pre-meal?

As if the cholesterol benefits weren't enough, Dr Berg shines a spotlight on another gem in turmeric's crown. In his clip, he notes: "One study found that curcumin was just as effective as ibuprofen at reducing pain from arthritis without side effects. It's also shown to be as effective as aspirin."

Curcumin, found in turmeric, inhibits inflammatory enzymes and has shown promising pain relief effects. A study disclosed that individuals consuming 2g of turmeric daily for six weeks saw improved knee function and less pain while engaging in activities like walking and stair climbing compared to those on a daily dose of 800 milligrams of ibuprofen, reports Surrey Live.

One expert highlighted: "Another study showed that curcumin had comparable results to Prednisone in reducing inflammation for rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, and IBS. It has also been shown to produce antidepressant effects similar to Prozac and Zoloft." Additionally, the specialist noted, "Curcumin has anti-diabetic properties and effects similar to Metformin. It also has anticoagulant properties similar to aspirin and Warfarin."

Cutting-edge research suggests that curcumin also positively impacts glucose tolerance and blood lipid levels. For instance, a 2019 investigation improved insulin response and lipid panels in diabetic rats thanks to curcumin. Dr Berg expounded: "Research has shown that curcumin has benefits similar to statins and can help reduce LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. One study compared curcumin to anticancer effects of 5-fluorouracil, a chemotherapy drug."

Curcumin is additionally known to boost HDL-C, which correlates with reduced heart disease risk. It may lower the necessary doses of statins, thus diminishing the chances of serious side effects, serving as a potential supplementary treatment to statin therapy for those with dysregulated lipid metabolism.

High cholesterol, a major health threat, can lead to heart disease, strokes, and high blood pressurefrequently the result of eating fatty food, obesity, smoking, excessive drinking, or a lack of physical activity, not forgetting genetics. Most times, the condition sneaks around undetected without symptomsthe surefire detection method is via a blood test. Lower that cholesterol with a healthier diet, more exercise, and sometimes, medications are necessary.

The doctor highlighted the benefits of turmeric, saying: "Turmeric has been shown to be as effective as anti-inflammatory drugs, especially for irritable bowel disease and digestive problems. It may also help reduce blood pressure and inhibit pathogens, especially fungi."

Packed with curcuminoids which fight inflammation, turmeric, particularly its curcumin component, might lower blood pressure, offer cardiac protection, and decrease heart disease risks. Eager to whip up some healthy turmeric-based beverages?

Dr Berg instructs: "Combine half a teaspoon of turmeric powder, a pinch of black pepper, and half of a lemon in a glass of warm water." For a creamy alternative, he advises: "Combine half a teaspoon of turmeric, one-quarter teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of black pepper in a cup of milk or coconut milk."

"Heat the mixture and remove from heat just before it comes to a boil. You can also add turmeric to a smoothie with berries and kefir. If you have a cough, try drinking a cup of hot water with a teaspoon of turmeric and a tablespoon of raw honey." Before you jump on the turmeric water bandwagon, bear in mind that while it's renowned for its health perks and might match up to meds for some, it's no panacea. A balanced diet and regular exercise are key to tip-top health.

It's wise to consult your GP before downing turmeric water to make sure it's a good fit for you, particularly if you're on meds or managing health conditions. Curcumin's usually A-OK in daily doses under 8 grams, but go higher or use it long-term and you might upset your stomach or harm your liver. Pregnant or nursing?

Then turmeric in medicinal doses could be bad news. And, heads up: turmeric supplements might muddle with your meds. Side effects like stomach woes, nausea, pain or indigestion, plus skin issues such as rashes, hives, and ulcers could crop up. For the full scoop on turmeric and health, swing by the NHS website.