Sabinsa Corporation will shortly introduce to the marketplace a new product derived from Fenugreek seeds. Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum, Family: Leguminosae) is native to North Africa and countries bordering the eastern Mediterranean and is widely cultivated in India. The seeds of Fenugreek are a condiment commonly used in Indian homes and are a rich source of fiber, particularly gel fiber. Gel fiber from Fenugreek resembles guar gum in chemical structure.

Sabinsa Corporation will shortly introduce to the marketplace a new product derived from Fenugreek seeds. Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum, Family: Leguminosae) is native to North Africa and countries bordering the eastern Mediterranean and is widely cultivated in India. The seeds of Fenugreek are a condiment commonly used in Indian homes and are a rich source of fiber, particularly gel fiber. Gel fiber from Fenugreek resembles guar gum in chemical structure. Pre-clinical and clinical studies have documented the anti-diabetic properties of the fiber-rich fraction of Fenugreek seeds. Diabetes mellitus is a disease characterized by high blood sugar levels. Diabetics also suffer from abnormal lipid profiles and are therefore prone to the development of coronary heart disease.

In Type I diabetics, the administration of the defatted fiber-rich seed significantly reduced fasting blood glucose levels and improved performance in the glucose tolerance test. Serum total cholesterol, LDL and VLDL cholesterol, as well as triglyceride levels, were significantly reduced, while the HDL levels remained unchanged. Similar effects were repeated in Type II diabetic patients2.

Pre-clinical studies indicate that the hypoglycemic effect of fenugreek is mediated through delayed gastric emptying and direct interference with glucose absorption3. The gel forming dietary fiber reduces serum cholesterol by decreasing the absorption of cholesterol and depleting cholesterol stores in the body by means of increased excretion of bile acids4.

Please contact Sabinsa Corporation for samples and further information.

References

1. Sharma, R.D. et al (1990). Eur J. Clin. Nutr. 44:301
2. Sharma, R.D. et al (1990). Nutr. Res. 10:731
3. Madar, Z. (1984). Nutr. Rep. Intl. 29:1267
4. Gee, J.M. et al (1983). Br J. Nutr. 50:215