Indian kitchens are almost always filled with spices, which are used not just to improve the taste of food but also to treat a variety of illnesses, including diabetes and blood pressure, as well as colds and coughs. Today, we go over the applications and advantages of a particular spice that The Yoga Institute’s director, Hansaji Yogendra, discussed, as well as what happens to the body when it is taken every day for a period of 14 days. The spice in question is none other than methi or fenugreek seeds.
Both the leaves and the tiny, golden seeds heat the body and stimulate the digestive fire. Methi also contains soluble fibre, which lowers blood sugar levels by delaying the absorption of sugar and carbs. For those with diabetes or insulin resistance, this is particularly beneficial. Moreover, they increase the activity of digestive enzymes, which lessens the discomfort associated with bloating or indigestion. Apart from helping with weight reduction, fenugreek also inhibits the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines, which lowers cholesterol levels and lessens the risk of heart disease, according to Dr. Hansaji.
How should they be consumed, in your opinion?
* The next morning, take one tablespoon of fenugreek that has been soaked in water for the whole night.
*Use water to chew the seeds.
So what would happen if you consumed fenugreek seeds for a full week?
Because fenugreek seeds offer so many health benefits, eating them for 14 days can have a range of affects on the body, according to Sushma PS, head dietician at Jindal Naturecure Institute. They are abundant in iron, protein, fibre, and other essential nutrients. They’re known to aid with digestion, regulate blood sugar, promote weight reduction, and decrease cholesterol, according to Sushma.
Sushma claims that eating fenugreek seeds often over the course of two weeks might improve digestion and ease many digestive issues, including as bloating, gas, and constipation. According to Sushma, “the high fibre content of fenugreek seeds can support gut health by regulating bowel motions.”
Furthermore, because fenugreek seeds are believed to possess “hypoglycemic qualities,” they may aid in lowering blood sugar levels. Sushma said, “Those who already have diabetes or are at risk of getting it can benefit most from this.”
Sangeeta Tiwari, Artemis Lite, NFC, New Delhi, emphasised that consuming fenugreek seeds consistently for two weeks may therefore lead to better lipid profiles and cardiovascular health. Fenugreek seeds have also been demonstrated to reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness, both of which can aid in managing weight. According to Tiwari, adding fenugreek seeds to your diet over a period of 14 days may enhance your weight reduction attempts and help you control cravings.
Additionally, they include substances that have anti-inflammatory qualities that may aid in “reducing inflammation in the body.” According to Tiwari, “fenugreek seeds taken regularly over a two-week period may alleviate symptoms of inflammatory conditions like arthritis and asthma.”
Moreover, it is well acknowledged that fenugreek seeds may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities that enhance overall health and wellbeing.
But it’s important to keep in mind that each person may respond differently to fenugreek seeds. If they eat too many seeds, some people may have adverse side effects as diarrhoea or allergic reactions. “These side effects include diarrhoea, nausea, and other digestive tract symptoms; on rare occasions, dizziness and headaches are experienced,” Tiwari said. Additionally, some people may experience allergic responses after eating these seeds.
Therefore, it’s advisable to see a medical professional before making any dietary changes, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or concerns, Sushma said.
