Benefits of the bitter Fenugreek seeds

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/

Author: drpoojachhawcharia

Dr Pooja Chhawcharia is the Senior Nutritionist at eKincare with over 7 years of experience in Nutrition education, diet counseling and research. She is a Registered Dietician with the Indian Dietetic Association and Certified Diabetes Educator recognized by the International Diabetes federation . She is also interested in ancillary sciences such as Yoga and Naturopathy. View all posts by drpoojachhawcharia