Fenugreek, commonly known as ‘methi’, has been used as traditional medicine in many parts of the world, especially in China, Egypt, India and Middle Eastern countries. Their bitter taste imparts a peculiar flavour to masalas , fermented batters, kadhi, dals, etc
Health effects
Lower cholesterol – Prevents absorption of cholesterol from the food thereby improving lipid profile and lowering heart disease risk
Lower blood sugar – Diosgenin present in fenugreek seeds may be useful in promoting adipocyte differentiation and inhibiting inflammation in adipose tissues . In this way it improves glucose metabolism and decreases inflammation.
Laxative effect – Fenugreek seeds absorb water and swell having a bulking effect in the stomach. This provides a sense of fullness and facilitates easy emptying of bowel
Amino acid – 4-hydroxy leucine- This amino acid present in fenugreek seeds potentiates the action of insulin and may be responsible for its anti-diabetic effects
There is more than one reason to incorporate fenugreek seeds in different ways as sprouted, roasted, powdered, into all kinds of dishes or even regular chapatti dough.
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26358163
http://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/hn-2090006
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24438170
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3901758/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3286580/
