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What is the Relationship Between Fenugreek and Diabetes?

Malcolm Tatum
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Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 7,719
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Many herbs are helpful in treating diabetes, either in terms of helping the body regulate blood glucose levels or providing much needed nutrition that helps the body deal with the condition. Fenugreek is an herb that has a long-standing reputation for being one of the best diabetes herbal treatments available today. While much of the evidence remains anecdotal, the beneficial connection between fenugreek and diabetes has been explored by a number of researchers, with some of them finding scientific evidence that the herb really can help with both Type I and Type II diabetes.

One of the factors that help explain the relationship between fenugreek and diabetes is the nutritional content of the herb. The herb contains high amounts of vitamins A and D, both considered important in aiding diabetics to maintain good health. Minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium are also present in moderate amounts. Fenugreek is also a good source of protein, providing one of the building blocks necessary for the body to manufacture energy. There is even trace amounts of several different B vitamins that help in protecting the nervous system from the ill effects of the body’s difficulty in processing carbohydrates.

The relationship between fenugreek and diabetes also involves a more direct impact on that processing of carbohydrates and the avoidance of blood sugar spikes. While not a replacement for developing and following a sensible diet that is low in cards and high in nutrients, there is some evidence that regular doses of fenugreek can aid the body in regulating glucose so that levels do not increase beyond and acceptable range. At the same time, use of the herb is said to aid in preventing sudden drops in blood sugar, which can lead to unresponsiveness and even a diabetic coma.

As with any type of herbal treatment, diabetics should discuss the relationship between fenugreek and diabetes, in particular how the herb may interact with other medications. In some cases, the herb may enhance the effects of medications intended to prevent spikes in blood glucose levels, resulting in blood sugar readings that are lower than normal. At the same time, fenugreek may have the effect of counteracting the drug, leaving the patient with no benefits from either substance. Even if the physician believes the relationship between fenugreek and diabetes is beneficial, care should be taken to monitor blood sugar levels regularly, and make changes in dosage in order to obtain the best results.

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Malcolm Tatum
By Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing to become a full-time freelance writer. He has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGeek, and his work has also been featured in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and newspapers. When not writing, Malcolm enjoys collecting vinyl records, following minor league baseball, and cycling.

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Discussion Comments
By fBoyle — On Aug 26, 2014

I'm happy that more and more people are discovering the relationship between fenugreek and diabetes because I think that it's an important and effective remedy. Breastfeeding mothers are familiar with fenugreek since it's one of the main herbs recommended to increase breastmilk supply. But the role of fenugreek in diabetes is still not commonly known.

Fenugreek basically lowers blood sugar by slowing down the absorption of glucose into the blood stream. It also helps the body release more insulin. So fenugreek is a great supplement for those who already have trouble keeping their blood sugar under control. It can also be used when one cheats with a food that has a high glycemic index. Ideally, diabetics should stick to their diet but we all know that it doesn't always happen. Cinnamon and dairy products like plain yogurt are some other natural foods that can slow down the absorption of glucose into the bloodstream.

By stoneMason — On Aug 25, 2014

@donasmrs-- There is such a thing as fenugreek tea. I think it's made by simply putting some fenugreek seeds in hot water. But I've never tried it since I heard that the tea tastes bitter. I take fenugreek capsules for my diabetes and it has definitely helped me. My blood sugar readings have been consistently lower since I started taking my fenugreek supplement. I take a capsule every morning.

I do recommend fenugreek to others with diabetes. But please check with your doctor before starting it. Fenugreek has an estrogenic effect as far as I know, meaning that it can act like estrogen in the body. It's not a problem for me but I can see it being a problem for others who should not increase estrogen in their body for various reasons.

When starting any supplement really, it's best to ask a doctor first.

By donasmrs — On Aug 25, 2014

I have type 2 diabetes and I've been hearing about fenugreek often lately as a remedy. Where can I get this herb and how do I use it? Should I make a tea with it?

Does anyone here use fenugreek regularly for diabetes?

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing...
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