Last Updated on December 13, 2023 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A social media post claims that eating fenugreek cures diabetes and kidney stones. We fact-checked and found the claim to be Mostly False.
The Claim
A Pinterest post has shared a compilation of potential health advantages associated with the consumption of fenugreek seeds. Among these benefits, the post claims that eating fenugreek can potentially help cure diabetes and kidney stones.
We have attached a screenshot of the post below:
Fact Check
What is fenugreek?
Fenugreek is a herb with bitter seeds and aromatic leaves used in cooking and traditional medicine. Its seeds are used as a spice in various cuisines.
Is it true that eating fenugreek cures diabetes?
Not exactly. While fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) has been studied for its potential health benefits. It is important to note that fenugreek is not a guaranteed cure for diabetes or kidney stones. It is crucial to rely on evidence-based medical advice and treatments when dealing with such health conditions.
Fenugreek has been traditionally used in some cultures for its potential to manage blood sugar levels and aid in digestion. Some studies have suggested that fenugreek may have a positive impact on blood sugar regulation, as it contains soluble fiber and compounds that could potentially affect insulin sensitivity.
However, the research in this area is still ongoing, and fenugreek should not be considered the sole treatment for diabetes. While some studies have suggested that fenugreek may have a positive impact on blood sugar regulation, it’s important to clarify that fenugreek is not a cure for diabetes. The active compounds in fenugreek, such as soluble fiber and certain plant chemicals, have been shown to have potential effects on insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. However, these effects are often modest, and fenugreek should not be relied upon as the sole treatment for diabetes.
If you have diabetes, it is crucial to work closely with your healthcare provider to manage your condition. This may include medication, dietary adjustments, regular exercise, and lifestyle changes. Relying solely on fenugreek or any other natural remedy could lead to uncontrolled blood sugar levels and potential complications.
Is it true that eating fenugreek cures kidney stones?
Not exactly. Regarding kidney stones, there is limited scientific evidence to support the claim that fenugreek can dissolve kidney stones. Kidney stones are typically formed from various minerals and salts in the urine, and their treatment depends on factors such as size, location, and composition. The claim that fenugreek can dissolve kidney stones is not supported by strong scientific evidence. Kidney stones are typically formed from minerals and salts that crystallize in the urinary tract. The treatment of kidney stones depends on factors such as the size, composition, and location of the stones.
While fenugreek may have some potential benefits for kidney health due to its diuretic properties and potential ability to increase urine flow, it is not a proven treatment for dissolving kidney stones. Treatment options may include medical interventions, dietary changes, hydration, and other appropriate measures based on the specific situation.
We asked Dr Ganesh Srinivasa Prasad P, MBBS, DNB (Internal Medicine) and DrNB (Nephrology), Consultant Nephrologist and Transplant Physician at Narayana Health City, Bengaluru, about the claim. He informed, “Fenugreek seeds were thought to be good for health in the past, especially for diabetes. But there aren’t many studies, and the results are not the same for everyone. This is because diabetes is different for each person. Type 1 diabetes needs insulin, while type 2 diabetes has many factors, so one treatment doesn’t work for all. Fenugreek might not always help with diabetes, so it’s important to talk to your doctor. Taking care of diabetes early can prevent problems like kidney disease, heart disease, and kidney stones”.
He further said, “In tropical countries, kidney stones are common because of humidity. There are different types of kidney stones, and they form in different ways. Some may be due to hormone problems or infections. It’s hard to get rid of kidney stones once they’re there, but you can take steps to stop new ones from forming. The treatment for each type of stone is different. There’s no proof that fenugreek seeds can prevent any type of kidney stone. Instead, people with kidney issues should make lifestyle changes like losing weight, eating less salt, having calcium-rich foods, avoiding foods with oxalates, and drinking lots of water. If you’re at risk of uric acid stones, cut back on meat, sugar, and carbs, and quit alcohol and smoking.”
In summary, fenugreek may have some potential health benefits and could be included as part of a balanced diet. However, it is not a magic cure for diabetes or kidney stones. These are serious medical conditions that require comprehensive and evidence-based approaches to treatment and management. Always seek guidance from qualified healthcare professionals and rely on proven medical interventions when dealing with health issues.
There is a lot of misinformation and misunderstanding surrounding natural remedies and their potential to cure or treat medical conditions like diabetes and kidney stones. This isn’t the first time we’ve encountered inconsistent claims linking quick home remedies to the cure of diabetes or kidney stones. Previously, we debunked the idea that okra cures diabetes in one story. In another, we addressed the unfounded notion that brahmi can cure diabetes. In the context of kidney stones, we also debunked the belief that using Kalanchoe pinnata plant with honey can treat gallstones. Furthermore, in a separate story, we refuted the claim that a mixture of yogurt, honey, and lemon can cure gallstones. So, it is important to rely on scientifically proven treatments and consult with healthcare professionals for accurate information.
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