Fenugreek: A potential tool for managing Diabetes

2014-02-28 10:45:23

Fenugreek is an herb used in cooking by certain Asian cultures; it has also been used traditionally and historically to treat diabetes. A meta-analysis looking at several clinical studies on the effect Fenugreek seeds have on diabetic parameters has found support for it traditional use.⁽¹⁾ Studies assessed looked at fasting blood glucose, 2 hour post load glucose and HbA1c and overall found all parameters were significantly reduced in the treatment groups. Higher doses were found to have more significant effects on the fasting and 2 hour post-load levels. Another study showed fenugreek seeds had a significant ability to decrease fasting blood sugar, triglycerides and LDL when the administered after being soaked in hot water, they also found when given in a food such as yogurt there was no significant benefit.⁽²⁾ It is interesting to note that certain food may impair the ability of fenugreek to impart it benefits. Fenugreek also appears to benefit Type I diabetics. Defatted fenugreek seed powder administered in 50g doses at lunch and again at dinner were found to significantly reduce fasting blood sugar, improve glucose tolerance test and even reduce cholesterol and lipid levels in Type I diabetics.⁽³⁾ While studies are showing beneficial effect of fenugreek for diabetes, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t run to the local health food store and start taking it on your own accord. Management and treatment of diabetes should always be monitored by a health care professional in order to ensure levels normalize without falling too low. Dangerously low blood sugar can happen quickly, especially in those taking medication and/or supplements or herbs, and can be deadly.