Also Known As:
4-hydroxyisoleucine |
Variations:
|
Related
Items:
|
Type:
Blood Sugar Control Fibre |
|
What is Fenugreek?
Fenugreek seeds are and have been used in Asian and Europe cooking as spices
for a very long time. Fenugreek seeds contain a form of soluble fibre called
mucilage, that may lower blood sugar and help to control cholesterol levels
by noticeably slowing the digestion of food. It has been noted that the feelings
of fullness that supress your appetite may be a contributing factor to weight
loss experienced while using Fenugreek.
What Are The Benefits of Fenugreek?
Fenugreek has been shown to have very positive effect on fat burning
and weight loss as well as strong blood sugar control, making it an ideal addition
to a diet whether for weight loss or weight gain. This ingredient may help the
dieter to lose more fat, more efficiently, and likewise, help the athlete attempting
to gain weight, gain more muscle faster, while simultaneously limiting the amount
of fat gained.
Fenugreek may help to improve blood sugar control in patients with diabetes.
Like other sources of fibre, fenugreek can aid weight control by reducing dietary
fat absorption and making you feel fuller for longer.
More About Fenugreek
There are a number of published studies that show the beneficial effects
of Fenugreek with blood sugar control in diabetics. The soluble fibre contained
within the Fenugreek seeds may also reduce fat absorption, whilst simultaneously
aiding appetite control by creating a sensation of fullness.
In one study, powdered fenugreek seeds were shown to lower blood sugar and insulin
levels following a meal in non-insulin dependent diabetics. While in a group
of insulin-dependent diabetic patients, fenugreek seed powder (100 grams in
two equally divided doses with lunch and dinner) was shown to improve blood
sugar control over a 10-day period. Total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, VLDL
cholesterol and triglycerides were also lowered, with no change in HDL levels.
It would appear that the most active and important compound in Fenugreek is
4-hydroxyisoleucine, on top of the obvious benefits from the mucilage fibre
the Fenugreek provides. Substantial anumal research has shown that 4-hydroxyisoleucine
has a positive effect in blood sugar control by stimulating insulin secretion.
Usage Indications
Defatted fenugreek seeds are available in powders, however you normally find
effective doses in both capsules or tablets, and in combination with other ingredients
in specific formulated produts.
ContraIndications:
If you are taking diabetes medications such as insulin or oral hypoglycemics,
fenugreek may enhance their effect, causing excessively low blood sugar. Because
of this, its best to seek the advice of a health professional before using it
with medications for diabetes.
|
