Turmeric is known as the golden spice of India because it is universally used in our culture. It signifies auspiciousness in our weddings and is a magic healer for almost every disease, according to Ayurveda.
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It is even known to significantly improve kidney function, but turns out that isn’t always the case. Let’s find out how turmeric could also affect our kidney health negatively!
Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory qualities aid in maintaining kidney function, and its antioxidant properties can prevent harm caused by oxidative stress on kidney cells. While we can see that turmeric has amazing benefits for the kidney, there are also drawbacks for renal health.
“Curcumin, the primary element in turmeric, can raise oxalate levels in the urine. This may increase the chance of kidney stones, especially for people who are already prone to them,” said Kanikka Malhotra, Consultant Dietitian and Diabates Educator. Furthermore, turmeric’s blood-thinning effects may be problematic for people with bleeding problems or those using blood thinners, as it might cause excessive bleeding.
Curcumin, the primary element in turmeric, can raise oxalate levels in the urine. This may increase the chance of kidney stones. (Source: Freepik)
If you have a history of kidney stones or are at risk, you should consult a healthcare professional before using turmeric supplements or increasing your turmeric use significantly.
How much turmeric is advisable to consume then?
“While moderate dosages are typically regarded safe, high doses or excessive use of concentrated supplements can raise the risk of negative effects, including kidney problems,” said Kanikka. This means that the levels commonly used in cooking are unlikely to create adverse effects.
However, if you’re thinking about using turmeric pills for other bodily issues, make sure to follow the label’s advised dosage. Typically, dosages of 500 to 2000 mg per day have been recommended. Even then, Kanikka recommends to begin with a lesser dose and gradually raise it as needed.
