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Stomach doctor answers the most asked questions about fenugreek or methi seeds

Remember that moderation is key, said Dt Amreen Sheikh, chief dietitian, KIMS Hospitals, Thane

Do you have methi seeds regularly? (Photo: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Should you have soaked fenugreek seeds or skip them entirely? Do those tiny seeds aid weight loss efforts or do they end up causing digestive discomfort? These are some of the most asked questions and a gastroenterologist decided to answer them for you. Taking to YouTube Shorts, Harvard-trained Dr Saurabh Sethi answered some of the questions, “Should you have fenugreek seeds or not?”

*Increases testosterone in men? Yes, said Dr Sethi
*Weight loss? Yes
*Boost milk production in women? Yes
*Raise GLP1 levels? Yes
*Helps with PCOS? Yes
*Ease perimenopausal depression? Yes
*Improves menopausal symptoms? Yes
*Make you smell like maple syrup? Maybe
*Reduce cholesterol? Yes
*Lowers haemoglobin A1C? Yes
*Harms the liver? No
*Suppress appetite? Yes
*Best to soak seeds overnight before eating? Yes

To help us make an informed choice, we turned to Dt Amreen Sheikh, chief dietitian, KIMS Hospitals, Thane.

Can fenugreek actually help with weight loss and appetite control?

Yes, but it’s not a quick fix, said Sheikh. “Fenugreek seeds are high in soluble fibre, which forms a gel-like substance in the stomach. This slows digestion, keeps you full longer, and helps reduce calorie intake naturally. So, it works best with a balanced diet and active lifestyle,” said Sheikh.

Does fenugreek seeds help with weight loss? (Photo: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Is it true that methi can boost testosterone levels in men?

According to Sheikh, there’s some evidence that it may help maintain healthy testosterone levels. “Fenugreek contains compounds that assist with hormone regulation and improve energy levels, but the changes are mild, not a dramatic increase,” contended Sheikh.

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How does fenugreek benefit women, especially those with PCOS or menopausal symptoms?

Fenugreek can help with hormonal balance by improving insulin sensitivity, which is important for managing PCOS, Sheikh elucidated. “It also helps reduce menopausal symptoms like mood swings and hot flashes, and it is known to promote milk production in new mothers,” added Sheikh.

Does it help control diabetes or blood sugar levels?

Yes, it can, affirmed Sheikh. “Fenugreek is shown to lower HbA1C and improve insulin response. It also increases GLP-1, a gut hormone that regulates blood sugar like some modern diabetes medications,” said Sheikh.

Also Read | Nutritionist says homemade biscuits also must not be eaten everyday: ‘Even if you are buying a cookie made using ghee and jaggery…’

Does it make you smell like maple syrup?

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“Possibly,” shared Sheikh, adding that the compound sotolone produces that sweet scent. “It’s harmless and goes away when you stop using it regularly,” said Sheikh.

What should you be cautious about?

Fenugreek doesn’t harm the liver; in fact, it may lower bad cholesterol, said Sheikh. “Just remember that moderation is key. A teaspoon or two a day is enough. Soak the seeds overnight before eating for better digestion and absorption,” added Sheikh.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.

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