What is the Relationship Between Fenugreek and Diabetes?

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.