CURCUMIN SUPPLEMENTATION IN THE PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT OF METABOLIC SYNDROME: CURRENT EVIDENCE AND PUBLIC HEALTH PERSPECTIVES

Abstract

Introduction: Metabolic syndrome is a clinically important cluster of cardiometabolic abnormalities, including central obesity, insulin resistance, dysglycemia, dyslipidemia and hypertension. Because these disturbances are strongly influenced by chronic low-grade inflammation, oxidative stress and lifestyle-related risk factors, interest has grown in adjunctive nutritional strategies, including curcumin supplementation. Aim: This review aimed to evaluate current clinical evidence on curcumin supplementation in metabolic syndrome and related cardiometabolic disorders, with particular attention to its potential role in prevention-oriented healthcare. Material and Methods: A narrative review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science. Studies published between 2008 and 2025 were considered, with priority given to randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews and meta-analyses. A total of 25 studies were included. Results: The strongest evidence concerns glycemic and inflammatory outcomes. Meta-analyses report reductions in fasting blood glucose, HbA1c and C-reactive protein, while effects on lipid profile and anthropometric indices appear more variable and generally modest. Enhanced-bioavailability formulations may produce stronger effects, but they also complicate comparison between studies and raise additional safety considerations. Conclusions: Curcumin may be considered a potentially useful adjunct to lifestyle-based prevention and cardiometabolic risk management. However, it should not be presented as an alternative to established interventions. Larger, longer and better-standardized randomized trials are needed before firm clinical recommendations can be made.