Document Type : Original Research Article
Authors
1
Student Research Committee, and Department of Clinical Nutrition, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
2
Student Research Committee, and Department of Clinical Nutrition, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
3
Department of Clinical Nutrition, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
4
Research Center for Integrative Medicine in Aging, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran Traditional Medicine and Hydrotherapy Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
Abstract
Objective: The presented meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials aimed to analyze the effective
ess of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) on fasting blood glucose (FBG), 2-hr postprandial glucose (2hPPG), Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), Insulin and Insulin resistance (HOMA-IR).
Materials and Methods: A systematic literature search of several databases was performed from inception to 30 October 2023, for controlled clinical trials. Data were analyzed using the random-effect model, and are presented as weighted (WMD) or standardized (SMD) mean difference and associated 95 % confidence interval (CI). Heterogeneity between studies was assessed using the Cochrane χ2 test. Meta-regression, subgroup analysis, and sensitivity analysis were used to identify the source of heterogeneity. Funnel plot, Egger's, and Begg's tests were also used to evaluate publication bias.
Results: A total of 26 Randomized controlled trial (RCTs) met the eligibility criteria. The results indicated significant improving effects of fenugreek on FBG (WMD: − 16.75 mg/dl; 95 % CI: − 23.36, − 10.15; p<0.001), 2hPP (WMD: - 22.28 mg/dl; 95 % CI: - 34.42 to - 10.15; p<0.001; I² (%): 95.1%, p<0.001), HbA1c levels (WMD: - 0.63 mg/dl; 95 % CI: - 0.76 to - 0.51; p<0.001), and insulin (SMD: - 0.42; 95 % CI: - 0.79 to - 0.05; p = 0.026). However, the HOMA-IR effect was insignificant (WMD: -22.28 mg/dl; 95 % CI: - 0.84 to 0.02; p = 0.061).
Conclusion: The overall results support the possible protective and therapeutic effects of fenugreek on glycemic parameters. Future studies with higher quality are necessary to confirm the results of the present meta-analyses.
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