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An investigation of the effects of curcumin on anxiety and depression in obese individuals: A randomized controlled trial
While curcumin is known to be a natural polyphenolic compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, this 2015 double-blind, cross-over trial investigated its correlation with incidences of anxiety and depressive symptoms among an obese sample. Thirty obese subjects were randomly allocated to receive either curcumin (1 g/day) or placebo for 30 days. A two-week wash-out period followed, before the participants were provided with the alternative regimen for another 30 days. Assessments were made at baseline and at weeks 4, 6 and 10 to determine the severity of the participants’ depression and anxiety. Although Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) scores did not show significant changes, the intake of curcumin was associated with significant reductions in mean Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) score of the sample. This trial suggests curcumin may possess anti-anxiety ability among obese individuals. [NPID: curcumin, turmeric, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, anxiety, depression, obesity, herbs]
Year: 2015
