Fenugreek seeds for diabetes: What to know before consuming them? Doctor explains

Malayalis are good at randomly 'prescribing' natural remedies for everything ranging from fever to cancer. Even among the highly educated, WhatsApp's 'medical advice' forwards can sometimes be a major influence. As Keralam is often dubbed the 'Diabetes capital of the country,' many unverified herbal remedies are attempted by people across age groups and social classes to tackle the chronic metabolic disease. However, what should one know before trying these plant-based treatments so they don't worsen diabetes and can stay healthy? On World Diabetes Day, Dr Antresa Jose, Consultant of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology at the Mar Sleeva Medicity, Palai, explains.

The most common remedy: Fenugreek seeds
Fenugreek seeds or methi seeds, a core ingredient in many of our spice mixes, curries and even Ayurvedic medicinal preparations, are consumed by many thinking it will help handle their diabetes. However, who does it help the most? Dr Antresa says, "If a normal, healthy person soaks a teaspoon of fenugreek in a glass of water overnight and has it in the morning after discarding the seeds, it can help in blood glucose control. It reduces the absorption of carbohydrates from the gut." However, it's not for everyone, she adds. "Not everyone should consume fenugreek to treat diabetes," she says. "Individuals who have other diseases along with diabetes should avoid it," says the doctor.

The 'bitter gourd juice' remedy
The 'pavakka' juice, or bitter gourd juice, which many take as a remedy for diabetes, wouldn't help as much as having the vegetable in the form of a dish, says the doctor. "If you make a juice out of any vegetables, including bitter gourd, or fruits, you are discarding its valuable fibre. This practice is not beneficial. It's always better to have it as a vegetable preparation, rather than in the juice form," explains Dr Antresa.

The 'natural remedy' hype
Amla, neem, jamun, aloe vera, ivy gourd, curry leaves, guava leaves... There is no dearth of plants that are promoted with catchy names like 'insulin plant,' 'diabetes destroyer,' 'sugar killer' and more, by social media's health influencers and self-proclaimed doctors. However, it's better not to add anything to one's diet without talking to one's doctor. Dr Antresa says patients should understand that there are many plants in nature which are inherently toxic. They should first understand which ones are toxic and which aren't, before consuming them. "There is a lot of hype about natural remedies for diabetes. However, bear in mind that not everything natural is always good for our body," Dr Antresa adds.