Fenugreek As An Appetite Suppressant

Over 2/3 of adults in the United States are overweight or obese. The health consequences of obesity are well-documented and widely publicized, and many Americans are attempting to lose weight to reduce their risks for heart disease, diabetes and other weight-related illnesses. In addition to dietary modifications and exercise, many people are seeking that extra "edge" to help them reduce their caloric intake. If you are searching for a non-prescription appetite suppressant to add to your personal weight-loss program, you might consider fenugreek. Check with your doctor first to see if it is appropriate for you.

Fenugreek

Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Herbal Healing," reports that fenugreek has been used for centuries as a spice and a medicine in Egypt, India and the Middle East. A member of the pea family, fenugreek's leaves and sprouts are often consumed as a vegetable, while its dried seeds are ground and incorporated into curries and other dishes. Both its vegetative parts and its seeds are the source for herbal medicinals that have been employed for treating diabetes, encouraging lactation and alleviating liver, pancreatic and digestive complaints.

Appetite Effects

A study published in the December 2009 issue of "European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology" showed that fenugreek seed extract, when administered in a daily dose of 1,176 mg for 6 weeks, evoked a spontaneous decrease in fat consumption and total caloric intake among 12 healthy male subjects. Six months later another study published in the same journal demonstrated similar results in 39 overweight test subjects. Interestingly, intake of carbohydrates and proteins was unaffected by fenugreek, and test subjects did not report any change in their overall appetite scores.

Side Effects

Fenugreek contains mucilages that interfere with iron absorption, so you should not take iron supplements at the same time you use fenugreek. Fenugreek may also interfere with thyroid hormones, so avoid it if you take prescription thyroid hormones. Pregnant women should also avoid fenugreek, as it may stimulate uterine contractions. Fenugreek can lower blood glucose levels in some people; if you are diabetic, fenugreek can enhance the effects of your oral medications or insulin and possibly cause hypoglycemia.

Considerations

Fenugreek may help you decrease your consumption of fats and reduce your total caloric intake, but its effects on protein and carbohydrate consumption appear to be negligible. Doses of around 1,200 mg daily are needed to confer beneficial effects, but even at this dose you may not experience a noticeable change in your appetite. There is insufficient evidence to determine whether taking fenugreek will help you lose weight. Diabetics, pregnant women and individuals on iron supplements should check with their physicians before taking fenugreek.