Dr. Pierce's Tip of the Week - Archive

Insulin Resistance: Discover the Wonders of Fenugreek
February 20, 2004

What is it?
Fenugreek is an annual plant of the leguminous family that is extensively cultivated in India, Egypt, the Middle East, and North Africa. The seeds of the plant have been used for centuries as a culinary spice and in traditional systems of herbology for a variety of health reasons, including support of healthy blood glucose and blood lipid levels. In fact, the use of fenugreek seeds is described in the Greek and Latin pharmacopoeias. More recently, several studies have demonstrated the beneficial effects of fenugreek seed on blood glucose and lipid metabolism, thus lending support to its traditional use.

How can it help me?
The ability of fenugreek seed to modulate blood glucose levels is thought to be due to its high content of soluble fiber, which acts to decrease the rate of gastric emptying, thus delaying glucose absorption from the small intestine. However, additional effects of fenugreek on glucose uptake and utilization have been noted in peripheral tissues, indicating that compounds other than soluble fiber may also be involved. Fenugreek seeds also lower serum triglycerides, total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). Now to give you the readers digest version of how you will benefit from this herbal supplement: fenugreek will help you maintain healthy blood glucose levels, may inhibit intestinal glucose uptake, and support healthy blood lipid levels. These health benefits will go a long way in helping you to prevent or reduce the ill effects of type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

Dosing and where to find it
The recommended dosage for clients that are new to this product should be 1-2g 2x/day. Fenugreek is an integral part of insulin and glucose management with our clients who are trying to lose weight. For more information on the product do not hesitate to contact Michelle here at the center (480-966-3840).

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