Antidiabetic effect and preference of fenugreek with dietary modifications in patients with prediabetes: An interventional parallel randomized study

Objective: The prevalence of diabetes mellitus in India is increasing day by day. This study was conducted to assess the impact of fenugreek with controlled diet in prediabetic patients of with fasting blood glucose (FBG) and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c). Study Design: Interventional parallel randomized control trial. Materials and Methods: A total of 280 prediabetics were included in the study. Patients were randomized and one group of patients received 10 g of fenugreek powder in hot water every day, whereas the second group did not receive it. Strict dietary controls were followed as per the guidelines of American Diabetic Association (ADA) protocols. The parameters were assessed on the first visit and every 3 months for 24 months. Results: Dietary addition of fenugreek leads to a reduction in blood glucose levels. Statistical analysis shows that there was a significant reduction in FBGlevels in the 24 months in the study group (P < 0.001), whereas a significant reduction in HbA1c in the 24th month (P = 0.001). Half of the study participants (52.9%, 59.2%, and 57.1% at 6, 12, and 24 months, respectively) reported acceptable compliance about fenugreek treatment. Conclusion: Dietary addition of fenugreek can have a synergistic effect along with diet control on FBG and HbA1c.