Fenugreek Supplement Guide: High Concentrations Of Important Amino Acids!
What is it and where does it come from?
Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) is an herb native to southern Europe and Asia. Fenugreek has been used for thousands of years by native populations for a wide variety of uses.
What does it do and what scientific studies give evidence to support this?
Fenugreek is used primarily as a food additive and spice. Its maple odor and flavor make it a popular addition to baked goods and specialty dishes.
4-hydroxyisoleucine (4-OH-Ile) is an amino acid extracted from fenugreek seeds.
Fenugreek has been shown to induce lactation in females.
Fenugreek contains high concentrations of choline, tryptophan, ascorbic acid, niacin and potassium. Choline is important for athletic performance, tryptophan is a serotonin precursor, ascorbic acid is a powerful antioxidant3, and niacin and potassium are critical for immune function.
Medically, fenugreek has been used for constipation and irritated skin. It is hypothesized that fenugreek helps maintain healthy cholesterol.12
Who needs it and are there any symptoms of deficiency?
No physiological need for fenugreek exists and thus no symptoms of deficiency exist.
Athletes and others may benefit from fenugreek supplementation. Fenugreek may also be of benefit to those who wish to add flavoring to food dishes.
How much should be taken? Are there any side effects?
Though overdose and side effects associated with fenugreek supplementation are rare, overdose can include symptoms of nausea. Some persons have allergies to fenugreek supplementation, and thus it is of importance to be aware of your allergies prior to fenugreek purchase and supplementation.14
Pregnant women should not supplement with fenugreek as it has been linked with several miscarriages15