Experts in 12p tablets say it could reverse and prevent diabetes

Health experts have singled out a particular herb that could help reverse or prevent diabetes.

Research has shown that fenugreek can have a positive impact on blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Fenugreek is available in pill form from health food stores such as Holland and Barrett. A tub of 90 capsules costs £10.99, working out to just 12p per tablet.

The leaves and seeds of fenugreek plants are versatile and can be used in a variety of ways. They add a unique flavor to curries and other dishes, making them a staple ingredient in many Asian recipes. Fenugreek is also recognized for its medicinal properties.

Fenugreek seeds, also known as trigonella foenum graecum, are rich in soluble fiber. This type of fiber helps lower blood sugar levels by slowing the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates, reports Wales Online.

What does the research say?

Numerous studies have indicated potential antidiabetic benefits of fenugreek. Several clinical studies have shown that fenugreek seeds can alleviate various metabolic problems associated with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, including lowering blood sugar levels and improving glucose tolerance.

Research in India has shown that adding 100 grams of defatted fenugreek seed powder to the daily diet of people with type 1 diabetes can significantly reduce fasting blood sugar levels. It also improved glucose tolerance and lowered total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides.

In another study, people with type 2 diabetes who consumed 15 grams of powdered fenugreek seeds with a meal experienced less of a rise in blood sugar levels after the meal. Further research indicated that taking 2.5 grams of fenugreek twice a day for three months might benefit those with mild type 2 diabetes by lowering blood sugar levels, although it had no effect on severe cases.

A 2015 study further confirmed the benefits of fenugreek seeds in managing blood glucose levels in diabetic patients. Over a three-year period, men and women aged 30 to 70 with prediabetes were divided into two groups.

One group received fenugreek powder twice a day before meals, while the other did not. By the end of the study, there was a significant reduction in the incidence of diabetes among participants who took fenugreek compared to those who did not.

The study noted, “Diabetes outcome in the fenugreek group was positively associated with serum insulin and negatively associated with insulin resistance.”

What other health benefits does fenugreek offer?

Fenugreek seeds are full of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that help protect our body’s cells from damage caused by unstable molecules known as free radicals.

They have been used for centuries by nursing mothers to stimulate breast milk production during pregnancy and postpartum. In addition, they are commonly used to treat colds and sore throats due to their strong antiviral properties.

Studies have also suggested that fenugreek seeds can help with conditions such as arthritis, high cholesterol, skin problems including wounds, rashes and boils, bronchitis, abscesses, hair loss, constipation, stomach disorders, kidney problems, heartburn, male impotence and various sexual dysfunctions.

Before trying it, be sure to check with your doctor and diabetes healthcare team to confirm that it is safe for you. If you have any negative reactions, stop using them and seek medical advice.

Similar to other blood sugar-lowering herbs, fenugreek may excessively lower blood sugar (hypoglycemia) when taken with prescription diabetes medications. This may mean that you may need to change the dose of your diabetes medicine.

Dietary supplements should never be used as a substitute for a varied and well-balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. If you are pregnant, nursing, taking any medication or under medical supervision, it is important to consult a doctor or healthcare professional before using.

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a condition that causes a person’s blood sugar to become too high. There are two main types of diabetes:

Type 2 diabetes is much more common than type 1. In the UK, over 90% of all adults with diabetes have type 2.

High blood sugar that develops during pregnancy is known as gestational diabetes. It usually disappears after birth.

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