January 18, 2021 admin

Curcumin reduces serum uremic toxins in people with CKD on dialysis

Curcumin in combination with other natural anti-inflammatory or antioxidant substances (such as Boswellia or resveratrol) has been previously shown to have positive effects in people with CKD receiving dialysis. These include increasing bone and muscle mass, and decreasing markers of inflammation.

In this pilot-scale double-blind trial, 28 people were randomized to receive either turmeric 2500mg, standardized to 95% curcumin (mixed into an orange juice with added carrot), or control (same juice with no added curcumin) 3 times weekly, following their dialysis sessions, for 3 months.

After 3 months, there was a significant reduction in the uremic toxin p-cresyl sulfate in people in the curcumin group compared to those who received the control (p = 0.009).  The authors speculate that this effect may be a result of improved gut barrier function or modulation of the microbiome as a result of curcumin supplementation, changes which could decrease p-cresyl sulfate permeability and absorption.

Citation:

Salarolli, R.T., Alvarenga, L., Cardozo, L.F.M.F. et al. Can curcumin supplementation reduce plasma levels of gut-derived uremic toxins in hemodialysis patients? A pilot randomized, double-blind, controlled study. Int Urol Nephrol (2021).

Link:

https://doi.org/10.1007/s11255-020-02760-z