Overview
- Mirror, Birmingham Live and the Daily Record highlighted the findings after Dr Michael Ruscio told his YouTube audience curcumin could be "just as effective" as omeprazole for reflux and indigestion.
- A 2023 multicentre, double-blind trial in BMJ Journals tested curcumin at 2 grams daily for one month and found symptom relief comparable to omeprazole for functional dyspepsia.
- Researchers observed no major side effects overall, though overweight participants taking curcumin showed declines in liver function tests.
- The authors described the evidence as reliable but limited by a small sample and short follow-up, calling for larger and longer studies before any practice changes.
- Readers are advised to consult a GP before replacing prescribed PPIs, which are widely used in England and have reported long-term risks including nutrient malabsorption, bone and kidney problems, and higher infection susceptibility.