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hile plant-derived natural products have long-standing utility towards health promotion, fenugreek seeds (a herbal product) have been touted for their proposed health benefits. Fenugreek that belongs to Fabaceae family, is named as Trigonella foenum-gracum, from the Latin language that means ‘little triangle’ due to the yellowish-triangular flowers it produces. Fenugreek, called ‘methi’ in India is a member of the pea family that grows approximately two feet high with small trifoliate leaves.

Raw fenugreek seeds are golden-brown in colour with maple flavour, aromatic and somewhat bitter in taste.

Fenugreek use dates back to the 14^th century, it was used by ancient Egyptians for embalming mummies, and the Greeks used it as a fodder for cattle. It’s a herb native to the Mediterranean region, Southern Europe and Western Asia. Fenugreek’s medicinal value is noted in ancient writings such as papyri found in Egyptian tombs and the records of the Roman emperor Charlemagne.

Fenugreek seeds are popular in India for pickles and curried dishes. The varied health benefits of Fenugreek seeds are attributed to its diverse array of phytoconstituents like trigonelline, 4-hydroxyisoleucine, sotolon, diosgenin, luteolin, phenolic acids and protodioscin.

 

Fenugreek seeds have stood the test of time as a medicinal herb, whose multiple health benefits have led to a focus on its use as a nutritional supplement in modern times…

 

Zenith Nutrition Fenugreek Seeds

The herbal dietary supplement is formulated with fenugreek seeds. The vegetarian, easy to swallow supplement is manufactured in a GMP-certified unit and does not contain glucose, fish, lactose, flavour, sugar, salt and colour. The supplement has gone through stringent testing for validation on purity and potency.

 

Top 5 Potential Benefits of Fenugreek Seeds

 

SUPPORTS DIGESTIVE HEALTH

Fenugreek has been used for more than 2000 years to stimulate flagging appetite, as well as for an assortment of digestive complaints, including stomach upset, constipation, heartburn and gas. The herbal extract is rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids which possess powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which help clear the body from toxins. The fenugreek protects the mucus membrane layer of the stomach from damage and reduces the secretion of stomach acid. Consuming fenugreek supplement 30 minutes before meals provides better digestive benefits and offers promising results for those suffering with recurring heartburn and indigestion.

 

HELPS REDUCE BAD CHOLESTEROL

There has been a growing prevalence of the cardiovascular disease in current times which generally is found to be a cause of the metabolic syndrome. Fenugreek seeds being rich in steroidal saponin are known to lower cholesterol, as it intercepts the absorption of cholesterol and triglycerides in the body.

 

What Are The Major Risks Caused By LDL Cholesterol?

1. Contributes to total fatty buildups in arteries termed as plaque.

2. A plaque buildup may block blood flow to and from your heart and other organs.

3. May increase your risk for heart attack or stroke.

How does fenugreek help with this condition? Fenugreek seeds help lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and triglycerides. It helps prevent hardening of the arteries, prevents fat deposit on the arterial walls and effectively lowers serum triglycerides and LDL cholesterol. Studies have demonstrated that sapogenin content in fenugreek may inhibit the absorption of cholesterol and increase biliary cholesterol excretion, thus lowering cholesterol.  

 

 

REGULATES BLOOD SUGAR LEVELS

Fenugreek seeds are most-researched with respect to its effect on the hypoglycemic property. Imbalance in blood sugar levels occurs as a result of disordered metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and lipids. Fenugreek seeds exert hypoglycemic effects by stimulating glucose-dependent insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells as well as by inhibiting the activities of alpha-amylase, two intestinal enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism. Besides, the polyphenols from fenugreek seeds were shown to exert antioxidant activity. Fenugreek seeds help to increase the number of insulin receptors and improve glucose utilization in peripheral tissues, thus showing potential anti-diabetic effects.

 

PROMOTES BREAST MILK PRODUCTION

Breast milk is the baby’s first food, produced by mammary glands located in the breasts of a human female. The phytoestrogens and diosgenin contained in fenugreek seeds function as a galactagogue to increase milk production in lactating mothers. Galactagogues are generally herbs or foods, which when ingested help increase breast milk secretion in women through increasing prolactin levels. The phytoestrogens in fenugreek help empower the mammary gland and develop breast tissue.          

 

                                                                                                                    

MAY ALLEVIATE MENSTRUAL DISCOMFORT

Fenugreek has been lauded in traditional ayurvedic medicine for its ability to relieve menstrual discomfort cramps, hot flashes and moodiness and related discomfort associated with PMS. Researchers have analyzed that the anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of fenugreek seeds may be one of the reasons for the claimed benefit. The diosgenin and isoflavones in fenugreek seeds have estrogen-like properties which mimic the estrogen hormone in women and offer excellent remedy to reduce menopausal symptoms. Fenugreek may also be beneficial for women during menopause or prior to menopause, when they may be low in estrogen levels.

 

How To Consume Fenugreek Seeds Supplement? 

Fenugreek supplement is a great and convenient way to boost your intake of the required amount of nutrient if you struggle to get enough from your diet. As a dietary supplement, take one serving (2 veg capsules) daily after meals or as directed by a physician.

 

Whom Is Fenugreek Supplement Suitable For?

Fenugreek supplement essentially promotes general health and well-being and hence is suitable for both men and women. Those suffering from digestive issues like loss of appetite, constipation, gastritis, women suffering from PMS symptoms, obese people and those suffering from cholesterol will particularly find the supplement beneficial.

 

Are Fenugreek Supplements Safe?

Fenugreek has a long history of use as a food and medicine in India, China and Western countries. It is usually recognized as safe by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Fenugreek supplements are usually well-tolerated in adults. Side effects like vomiting, nausea, diarrhea and flatulence may occur in a rare case.

 

Safety Precautions While Taking Fenugreek Seeds:

-> Fenugreek supplement should not be used in place of conventional medical care.

-> The fenugreek supplement is not suggested for pregnant women as it may affect uterine contractions.

-> People suffering from health ailments, pregnant, lactating women, and people with known medical conditions or those taking drugs are advised to consult a licensed medical practitioner before embarking on supplementation.