Benefits of Fennel seeds (Foeniculum vulgare) for Blood Sugar Control

 

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Foeniculum vulgare, commonly known as fennel seeds, is an aromatic culinary and medicinal plant.

As an island girl, I grew up using herbs for various purposes. Herbs were used in teas, meals, desserts, and for ailments such as colds/flu, headaches, body pains and so much more. I love herbs and spices. I used them daily when cooking. I enjoy using herbs and spices in my dishes because they enhance flavor, and add nutrients, and minerals to my dishes.

I do believe that herbs and spices improve overall health. Therefore, when I learned about herbal infusion teas, I made them weekly to assist with strengthening my immune system. 

Lately, I have been enjoying fennel seeds (Foeniculum vulgare). I use fennel seeds in my foods such as chicken, vegetables, peas, smoothies, and porridge to enhance the flavor of my dishes.

The nutrition component of fennel seeds

Fennel seeds contain powerful antioxidants such as Vitamin A and C; phenolic compounds with anti-tumor properties that help fight cancer (1).  Fennel seed extract is used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Fennel seed health benefits for type 2 diabetes

Research conducted identified fennel seed extract to inhibit the absorption of carbohydrates. When carbohydrates are ingested, it has to be converted into simple sugars by the enzyme alpha-glucosidase and alpha-amylase before absorption (2).

The use of fennel extract in the diet delays the breakdown of carbohydrates and absorption, thereby aiding in the control of blood sugar levels for clients with type diabetes.

Managing blood glucose levels are critical when dealing with type 2 diabetes. Adding fennel seeds to the diet may help to control blood glucose by inhibiting the two enzymes responsible for the breakdown of carbohydrates. This approach can be very beneficial to those who are affected by this chronic disease (2). 

However, it is highly recommended that one followed a balanced diet and lifestyle habits for the prevention of diabetes. If you need assistance seek advice from a qualified nutrition professional that is: a registered dietitian (RD) or a certified nutrition specialist (CNS).

References:

1. Mohamad, R. et al. Antioxidant and Anticarcinogenic Effects of  Methanolic Extract and Volatile Oil of Fennel Seeds (Foeniculum Vulgare). Journal of Medicinal Food. 2011; 986-1001.

2. Godavari, A. Amutha, K.  Moorthi, N. In-Vitro hypoglycemic effect of Foeniculum Vulgare Mill. seeds on the carbohydrate hydrolyzing enzymes, Alpha-Amylase and Alpha-Glucosidase. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Science and Research. 2018; Vol. 9(10): 4441-4445.