Fact Check: Can Fenugreek cure diabetes?

A post on X claims that Fenugreek is A 3000-Year-Old Cure for Modern Diabetes. This claim is FALSE. 

Claim

A post on X claims that Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) is an ancient herb widely used in culinary and medicinal practices for 3000 Years and is a Cure for Modern Diabetes. The post by BarbaraOneillAU states that research shows fenugreek consumption can significantly reduce fasting blood glucose and HbA1c levels, improving insulin sensitivity and lowering blood glucose levels in both overweight individuals and those with non-insulin-dependent diabetes.

Additionally, the post highlights cinnamon's role in managing blood sugar, noting that it enhances insulin sensitivity and helps regulate blood sugar by mimicking insulin. Studies are cited to support the claim that cinnamon can reduce fasting blood sugar levels and improve long-term blood glucose markers.

The post suggests soaking 1/4 teaspoon of fenugreek seeds and half an inch of Ceylon cinnamon stick in water overnight and drinking the mixture on an empty stomach every morning. This routine should be followed for three months alongside a balanced, low-GI diet. However, it cautions that pregnant or breastfeeding women, individuals with allergies to fenugreek or cinnamon, and those on blood-thinning medications should consult their doctor before trying this regimen.

The post has more than 158K views and can be accessed here.

Fact Check

This claim is false. Fenugreek cannot cure diabetes

What is Diabetes? 

According to WHO, “Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs either when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use it. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood glucose. Hyperglycemia, also called raised blood glucose or raised blood sugar, is a common effect of uncontrolled diabetes and over time leads to serious damage to many of the body's systems, especially the nerves and blood vessels.” Certain symptoms of diabetes include polydipsia (feeling thirsty), polyurea (frequent urination), blurred vision, feeling tired and unintentional weight loss.

Dr Srinath Aswathiah, Consultant Diabetologist & Endocrinologist, Gleneagles BGS Hospital Kengeri, Bengaluru said, "Diabetes is a chronic condition that arises due to issues with insulin production or utilization. The causes differ depending on the type of diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, resulting in little or no insulin production.

Type 2 diabetes, the more common form, typically occurs due to a combination of genetic predisposition and lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of physical activity, and obesity. A key factor in type 2 diabetes is insulin resistance, where the body's cells do not respond effectively to insulin.

In addition to these, there are other significant forms of diabetes. MODY (maturity-onset diabetes of the young) is a rare type with a strong genetic component, often running in families. It typically affects lean, young male individuals and responds well to oral medications. LADA (latent autoimmune diabetes in adults), sometimes referred to as Type 1.5 diabetes, shares characteristics of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes but presents differently, requiring its own unique management and treatment approach.

Another important form is gestational diabetes, which occurs during pregnancy and usually resolves after childbirth. However, it does increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

All types of diabetes require careful management to prevent complications and maintain overall health."

Can Diabetes be cured?

Diabetes can be managed through diet, medication and lifestyle but it can not be cured.

Ms Karthigaiselvi, Chief Dietitian, Gleneagles BGS Hospital, Kengeri, Bangalore said, "There’s no cure for diabetes and no way to completely get rid of it. However, diabetes can be reversed in most people. Reversing diabetes means carefully managing blood sugars to a point where medications are no longer necessary, and staying at that manageable point through a healthy routine of diet and exercise. Healthy habits move the slider toward a more manageable state; they cannot switch the diabetes “off.” Furthermore, the slider can move back toward diabetes if someone fails to maintain healthy habits. Managing diabetes involves stabilizing blood sugar levels through lifestyle modifications and medications. There are also innovative minimally invasive procedures like bariatric surgery can help improve your diabetes management without the need for medication. People with severe obesity have a greater risk than obese people with lower BMIs. Weight around your middle can be a particular problem. Fat can build up around your organs, affecting the function of organs like the liver and pancreas and increasing your risk of developing diabetes. Careful glucose monitoring is a vital part of controlling your diabetes If you recognize patterns, you can improve your blood glucose levels, maintain your health and reduce your risk of developing diabetes complications."

Health Benefits Of Fenugreek and Cinnamon

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum), one of the oldest medicinal plants, boasts an exceptional medicinal and nutritional profile. Its seeds are rich in fiber, phospholipids, glycolipids, oleic acid, linolenic acid, linoleic acid, choline, vitamins A, B1, B2, C, nicotinic acid, niacin, and numerous other beneficial elements. Fenugreek has been widely used as a spice globally to enhance the sensory appeal of foods. Renowned for its medicinal properties, it exhibits antidiabetic, anticancer, hypocholesterolemia, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory activities.

Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) is rich in manganese, calcium, iron, and fiber. It has potent antioxidant properties due to its high content of polyphenols. It helps regulate blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for people with diabetes. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties support overall health aid in reducing inflammation, and fight infections. Cinnamon also helps improve digestion and lower cholesterol levels. 

Is Fenugreek a Cure for Modern Diabetes?

Fenugreek has been traditionally utilized in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine, and cinnamon is known to have a positive effect on blood glucose levels. However, these ingredients cannot cure diabetes.

Ethan Basch et. al. noted that fenugreek has a long-standing history of use in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine, traditionally applied for various purposes such as inducing labor, aiding digestion, and serving as a general tonic to enhance metabolism and overall health. Early studies involving both animals and humans indicate that fenugreek seed powder taken orally may possess potential blood sugar-lowering and cholesterol-reducing effects.

An article published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences found fenugreek does improve overall glycemic control parameters and lipid profile safely. The study revealed that fenugreek could improve overall glycemic control parameters and lipid profile. The results suggest that fenugreek may be an effective and safe option for individuals with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus for management of the disease.

Similarly, Robert W. Allen et. al.'s research found that consuming cinnamon is linked to a significant reduction in fasting plasma glucose, total cholesterol, LDL-C, and triglyceride levels, as well as an increase in HDL-C levels; however, it did not show a significant impact on hemoglobin A1c levels.

An article published by the American Diabetes Association found that consuming 1, 3, or 6 grams of cinnamon daily lowers serum glucose, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and total cholesterol in individuals with type 2 diabetes. The study suggests that incorporating cinnamon into the diet of people with type 2 diabetes could help reduce risk factors linked to diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

While there is scientific evidence, supporting the role of fenugreek in glycemic control, it is not supported by any medical evidence or consensus from doctors as a Cure for Diabetes

The Medical Dialogues Fact Check Team spoke with Dr Srinath Aswathiah, Consultant Diabetologist & Endocrinologist, Gleneagles BGS Hospital Kengeri, Bengaluru. who explained,  "Fenugreek, indeed, has a long history of medicinal use dating back over 3000 years. Historically, it has been utilized in various cultures to manage a range of health issues, including diabetes. Modern research supports its traditional use, showing that fenugreek can positively affect blood glucose levels. Studies indicate that fenugreek seeds can lower fasting blood glucose and HbA1c levels, and improve insulin sensitivity. While it is not a cure for diabetes, fenugreek can be an effective adjunct to conventional treatments, helping manage the condition more effectively. It is essential to use it as part of a comprehensive diabetes management plan, including diet and medication as prescribed by healthcare professionals."

Ms Karthigaiselvi, Chief Dietitian, Gleneagles BGS Hospital, Kengeri, Bangalore said, "Traditional plant medicines are used throughout the world as alternative therapies to control diabetes. Although numerous herbs are reported to possess some degree of anti-diabetic activity, a significant amount of research, as well as traditional usage suggest that Fenugreek may be among the best in terms of efficacy and safety. Fenugreek seeds (trigonella foenum graecum) are high insoluble fiber which helps lower blood glucose by slowing down digestion and absorption of carbohydrates. It is effective in treating people with diabetes. It can improve most metabolic symptoms associated type 1 and type 2 diabetes by lowering blood glucose levels and improving glucose tolerance. Fenugreek seeds are rich sources of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants which helps to protect the body’s cells from damage caused by unstable molecules known as free radicals. Fenugreek powder is also useful to lower the blood glucose in pre diabetes. It also has hypo cholesterolemic effects by reducing LDL cholesterol levels but without affecting serum TG, HDL cholesterol levels."

Medical Dialogues Final Take

While Fenugreek has been shown to improve glycemic control and lipid profile, contributing to better overall health, no scientific evidence or medical consensus supports the claim that fenugreek can cure diabetes. Hence this claim is FALSE.