Fenugreek is a plant used in the treatment of diabetes because it helps to lower the glycemic index. You can take it after meals as a supplement, add it to your recipes or drink it as an herbal tea. Always make sure you speak to your doctor before resorting to any herbal remedies, especially if you are already taking diabetes medications. Also, keep in mind that simply consuming fenugreek is not an adequate therapy to manage this disease.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Using Fenugreek
Step 1. Consult your doctor before adding fenugreek to your diet
This plant interacts with several antidiabetic drugs and some anticoagulants. For this reason, it is essential to consult your doctor before including it in your diet. It can interfere with the action of the medicines you are taking to manage diabetes and other diseases.
Always talk to your doctor before stopping or taking any medications or supplements
Step 2. Consider the dosage regimen
The recommended dose for fenugreek is between 2.5 and 15g per day, so it's important to let your doctor know your intentions and ask for advice on using this plant based on your body weight and other factors. You can also consult an experienced herbalist or naturopath.
The dosage most used in research is equivalent to 13 g of fenugreek powder, twice a day. However, some studies have shown its benefits with just 3g twice a day
Step 3. Choose a good quality fenugreek supplement
Some people don't like the taste of this plant's seeds, so it is often taken in capsules. If you decide to take it in supplement form, make sure the product is of the best quality. The package should contain:
- Reliable information on the effects of the assumption;
- Information on dosage, side effects and ingredients;
- A legible and understandable label;
- Information about the manufacturing company, including telephone number, address or website.
Step 4. Add fenugreek to food
Some people like the flavor and prefer to add the seeds to their dishes. You can look for recipes that include fenugreek or simply sprinkle the seeds on dishes as a garnish. However, keep in mind that you should continue to follow your doctor's recommendations to nourish yourself healthily. When adding fenugreek to food, consider that according to some studies, the recommended dosage is 15 g.
Step 5. Make an herbal tea
According to some studies, taken in this way produces the best results. It has been shown that, when added to hot water, it provides a noticeable improvement unlike when it is ingested with yogurt. Participants in this study consumed a total of 10 g per day.
Crush or pulverize 3g of seeds using a mortar and pestle or food processor. Then, transfer them to a cup and pour 240 ml of boiling water. Stir well with a spoon, then wait for the mixture to cool before drinking
Part 2 of 2: Knowing the Effects
Step 1. Keep in mind that only a few studies have analyzed the effects of fenugreek
While it appears to be an effective remedy for lowering the glycemic index after meals, so far only a few researches believe this theory is reliable. Therefore, it is important to consult with your doctor to keep diabetes under control.
- Fenugreek alone does not cure this disease. People with diabetes should continue to eat a balanced diet, control their blood sugar levels, and engage in regular physical activity. The consumption of fenugreek does not offer the possibility of discontinuing any therapy.
- Make sure you take your diabetes medications according to your doctor's prescription.
Step 2. Don't underestimate some side effects
Fenugreek is considered a nearly harmless product to adults when consumed in recommended quantities. However, if taken as a supplement, it could trigger some imbalance in the body. While taking it you may experience some gastrointestinal side effects, such as diarrhea, gas and stomach pain, but also to the respiratory tract, such as congestion, wheezing and cough.
Do not take it for more than six months
Step 3. Know when to avoid consumption
Fenugreek is not considered safe for pregnant women and children. Therefore, do not take it if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning to have a baby. Do not give it to children either, as it can cause fainting in some cases.
