As a dietitian, I’ve seen food trends come and go. However, some timeless gems never lose their sparkle due to their incredible health benefits and versatility. One such treasure is fenugreek. Fenugreek, with its intriguing, sweet, and nutty flavor, has been used in culinary and medicinal practices for thousands of years.
Beyond its unique taste, fenugreek harbors an array of health benefits that are backed by science. Let’s explore the amazing benefits of fenugreek and discover the best ways to use this super herb into our daily diet.
6 Benefits of Fenugreek
More research is yet to be done on the benefits of fenugreek. However, according to some research conducted so far, below are some of the possible benefits that fenugreek can provide to the human body:
1. Blood Sugar Control
Diabetes can be managed by individuals who use fenugreek. According to research, its high fiber contents lead to a low rate of glucose absorption in the blood, that’s the same reason why digestion is slowed down by the seeds.
Inside these seeds are ingredients that promote insulin sensitivity , particularly trigonelline and 4- Hydroxy isoleucine etc. This makes it one of the best supplements for people seeking stable blood sugar level.
How to use
Soak fenugreek seeds overnight in water and drink the water and chew the seeds on an empty stomach the next morning.
2. Digestive Health
Your digestive system will thank you for a diet filled with fibrous foods like fenugreek. As well as working its magic as a natural laxative, this herb can be used to treat constipation quite effectively.
Moreover, the presence of mucilage within fenugreek seeds comes handy when calming down any form of stomach upset suggesting that it could serve as an all round remedy against any possible gastroesophageal detriment.
How to use
Add fenugreek leaves to your dishes as greens or use powdered fenugreek seeds as a spice in your cooking.
3. Lowers Cholesterol
By including fenugreek in your diet will lead to good effects in your heart by lowering cholesterol amounts, as there are saponins in it which help reduce the amount of cholesterol gotten from fatty foods absorbed by the body.
Additionally, according to findings from several research projects done by various institutions around America, taking fenugreek could help reduce total cholesterol, LDL and triglycerides.
How to use
Use fenugreek seed powder in your cooking or soak fenugreek seeds in water and consume them along with the water.
4. Breast Milk Production
It is a well-known fact that fenugreek is quite popular with breastfeeding mothers since it aids in enhancing the production of breast milk in a natural manner.
It is popularly known as “galactagogue” which is a term used to refer to any substance that increases milk supply therefore providing a solution to mothers who may be experiencing problems while breastfeeding.
How to use
Fenugreek tea is a comforting way for nursing mothers to consume fenugreek. You can also add fenugreek seeds to your diet.
5. Anti inflammatory Properties
Fenugreek shows strong potential for reducing inflammation in a number of persistent inflammatory diseases such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Moreover, it has antioxidants that help to remove free radicals from the body as well as reduce inflammation hence good for maintaining good health.
How to use
Add fenugreek powder to warm water and make a paste. This can be applied to the skin to reduce external inflammation. Consuming fenugreek seeds or leaves also helps fight internal inflammation.
6. Appetite Control
Fenugreek is a potential tool for weight management, studies have reported that it can improve satiety and decrease food intake thus aiding efforts for weight loss.
How to use
Taking fenugreek seed extract or drinking fenugreek tea before meals can help you feel more satisfied and consume fewer calories.
Also Read: Health Benefits Of Mushrooms: Are They Good For You?
Final Words
Fenugreek has various health benefits, including reducing inflammation, lowering cholesterol, regulating blood sugar, increasing testosterone levels, enhancing breast milk production as well as helping with weight loss. For anyone interested in good health, Fenugreek is safe and free from side effects.
[Please Note: Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet, especially if you’re pregnant, nursing, or have existing health conditions.]
My name is Dt. Abhishek and I am a nutritionist from India. I have done my graduation in Nutrition and Dietetics, I am also a member of Indian Dietetics Association, I try to stay on track and constantly try to learn new things.
