Potential role of bioavailable curcumin in weight loss and omental adipose tissue decrease: preliminary data of a randomized, controlled trial in overweight people with metabolic syndrome. Preliminary study

F. Di Pierro, A. Bressan, D. Ranaldi, G. Rapacioli, L. Giacomelli, A. Bertuccioli

Velleja Research, Milan, Italy. f.dipierro@vellejaresearch.com

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• Pharmacology

OBJECTIVE: This randomized, controlled study aims to evaluate the tolerability and the efficacy of curcumin in overweight subjects affected from metabolic syndrome, with a focus on impaired glucose intolerance and android-type fat accumulation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: Forty-four subjects, selected among those who after 30 days of diet and intervention lifestyle have shown a weight loss < 2%, have been treated for further 30 days either with curcumin complexed with phosphatidylserine in phytosome form or with pure phosphatidylserine. Outcomes concerning anthropometric measurements and body composition were analyzed at enrollment and after 30 and 60 days.

RESULTS: Curcumin administration increased weight loss from 1.88 to 4.91%, enhanced percentage reduction of body fat (from 0.70 to 8.43%), increased waistline reduction (from 2.36 to 4.14%), improved hip circumference reduction from 0.74 to 2.51% and enhanced reduction of BMI (from 2.10 to 6.43%) (p < 0.01 for all comparisons). Phosphatidylserine did not show any statistical significant effect. Tolerability was very good for both treatments, and no drop-out was reported.

CONCLUSIONS: Although preliminary, our findings suggest that a bioavailable form of curcumin is well-tolerated and can positively influence weight management in overweight people.

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