Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin with piperine in metabolic syndrome
Background:
Oxidative stress and inflammation are among the features of metabolic syndrome. Curcuminoids are natural polyphenols containing potent antioxidants and possessing anti-inflammatory properties.
Objective:
To investigate the efficacy of bioavailable curcuminoid supplements on oxidative stress and inflammation measures in patients with metabolic syndrome. A secondary objective was a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trial data to assess the effect on CRP, a marker of inflammation.
Methods:
A double-blind controlled trial studied 117 patients with metabolic syndrome according to NCEP-ATPIII (National Cholesterol Education Program – Adult Treatment Panel III).
Fifty-nine patients, nine of whom withdrew, received 1 gram of curcuminoids plus 10 mg piperine daily to enhance bioavailability. Fifty-eight, eight of whom withdrew, received placebo. Both groups were treated for eight weeks.
Three parameters related to oxidative stress resulting from metabolic syndrome were measured: SOD, MDA and CRP.
Given the importance of CRP as a marker and risk indicator for cardiovascular disease, a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials assessed the overall effect of curcuminoid treatment on CRP.
Result:
The curcuminoid-piperine supplement significantly improved serum SOD enzyme activity and reduced MDA and CRP compared with placebo. Curcuminoids appeared to significantly reduce CRP relative to placebo.
Conclusions:
Short-term supplementation with curcuminoids and piperine significantly improves oxidative and inflammatory status in people with metabolic syndrome.
Curcuminoids can be considered natural, safe and effective reducers of inflammatory CRP levels.

