Effects of Trigonella foenum-graecum L. and Trigonella balansae Boiss. & Reut on Gastric Hormones in Healthy Adults: An Exploratory Study

Effects of Trigonella foenum-graecum L. and Trigonella balansae Boiss. & Reut on Gastric Hormones in Healthy Adults: An Exploratory Study | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Research Article Effects of Trigonella foenum-graecum L. and Trigonella balansae Boiss. & Reut on Gastric Hormones in Healthy Adults: An Exploratory Study Supriya Bhalerao, Poonam Gupte, Shital Giramkar, Asmita Wele, and 1 more This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-9144438/v2 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Posted Version 2 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Show more versions Abstract Background Fenugreek ( Trigonella spp.) is traditionally used as an appetite stimulant and anti-diabetic herb. Modulation of gut hormones is one potential mechanism for its metabolic effects, but direct clinical evidence is limited. Objective To conduct an exploratory assessment of the short-term effects of two fenugreek species T. foenum-graecum and T. balansae on appetite, glucose levels, and selected gastric hormones in healthy adults. Methods Twenty healthy individuals (18–35 years) were randomized into three groups: T. foenum-graecum (FS1), T. balansae (FS2), or a combination (FS3). Participants received 2–3 g/day of the respective seed powders for 14 days. Outcomes assessed at baseline and day 15 included fasting and post-prandial glucose, acyl ghrelin, motilin, and GLP-1. Appetite was assessed using the Simplified Nutritional Appetite Questionnaire. Results Appetite improvement was reported by 4 participants in each group. Mean glucose values showed a mild reduction across groups but remained within normal limits. Acyl ghrelin showed a small, non-significant rise in FS1, while motilin exhibited minor changes without consistent trends. GLP-1 levels remained below detectable limits with the assay used. Adverse events were fewer in FS1 compared to FS2 and FS3. Conclusion Short-term administration of T. foenum-graecum was associated with improved subjective appetite and a mild decrease in glucose levels, though hormonal changes were minimal and non-significant. Given the very small sample size, these preliminary findings require cautious interpretation and validation in adequately powered clinical studies. Acyl ghrelin Motilin GLP-1 Trigonella foenum-graecum Trigonella balansae exploratory clinical study Introduction Fenugreek ( Trigonella spp.) is widely consumed in India as a food and traditional remedy. 1 – 2 Experimental and clinical studies have reported its anti-diabetic, digestive, hypo-cholesterolemic and antioxidant effects, largely attributed to phytochemicals such as saponins, galactomannans, diosgenin and trigonelline. 3 – 5 Emerging evidence suggests that gut hormones including acyl ghrelin, motilin and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) play an important role in appetite regulation and glucose homeostasis. 5 – 10 The influence of fenugreek on these gastric hormones in humans remains underexplored. The genus Trigonella L. includes a number of medicinal and aromatic species commonly called as Fenugreek and widely used in traditional medicine 1 . In India two species, namely, T. foenum-graecum L. (Fenugreek, methi) and T. balansae Boiss. and Reut (sickle fruit fenugreek, kasurimethi/ Champamethi /Marwari methi) are not only consumed as vegetables and spice but also used in management and treatment of diabetes 10 . Several beneficial physiological attributes of these Trigonella species regarding health have been reported in various in vivo as well as clinical studies over the past few decades. Antidiabetic, hypocholesterolemic, antioxidant, digestive stimulant, and hepatoprotective effect are some of the activities that have been proven for T. foenum-graecum L, attributable to its phytoconstituents. T. balansae , also termed as T. corniculata has been shown to possess anti- oxidant, anti- hyperglycemic, anti- cancerous, properties 11 – 13 . Although both the species are used traditionally for digestion and metabolic health, comparative clinical data are lacking. This exploratory study assessed short-term effects of these two species, individually and in combination, on gastric hormones, glucose levels and appetite in healthy adults. The findings were intended to generate preliminary data for future hypothesis-driven trials. Materials and Methods A randomized, open-label exploratory study was conducted after obtaining Institutional Ethics Committee approval (BVDUCOA/EC/750A/2023-24) and registration in Clinical Trial Registry of India (CTRI/2023/07/054751). Apparently healthy individuals (n = 24) of either sex in the age group 18–35 years were recruited. Those with known endocrine, gastrointestinal, hepatic, renal or psychiatric disorders, or those using supplements/herbal medications, were excluded. Authenticated seeds of T. foenum-graecum and T. balansae were roasted, powdered, and encapsulated. The participants were randomly allocated to receive either of fenugreek variety or combination of both. The first group received capsules of T. foenum-graecum (FS 1), second group received capsules of T. balansae (FS 2) and the third group received capsules of both FS 1 & FS 2. The dose for FS 1 and FS 2 groups each, was 2000 mg/day- 2 capsules twice a day for 7 days followed by 3000 mg/day − 2 capsules thrice a day, for further 7 days, prior to meals, decided as per literature FS 3 group was given (FS 1) 1000mg/day + (FS 2) 1000mg/day (1 capsule from each species) twice a day for 7 days, followed by (FS 1) 1500 mg/day + (FS 2) 1500 mg/day thrice a day for further 7 days, before meals. The total treatment duration was 14 days and participants were instructed to avoid other medicines during this period. The outcome variables were weight, blood sugar, gastric hormones- acyl ghrelin, motilin and Glucagon- like peptide 1 (GLP 1) done before and after the course of Fenugreek treatment. Other than weight, all the parameters were done in fasting as well as post prandial state i.e . 2 hours after breakfast. A Simplified nutritional appetite questionnaire 14 (SNAQ) was administered to all participants for assessment of appetite, satiety, taste of food, number of meals along with assessment of bowel movements based on stool consistency and defecation ease. All parameters were done at baseline (day 0) and day 15, except SNAQ and bowel assessment which were additionally done on day 7 (telephonic follow up). Adverse events, if any, were noted at every follow up. For estimation of hormones, the serum was separated from collected blood and stored in aliquots at -80 0 C in a deep freezer. Considering the biphasic secretion of GLP 1 as per literature, an additional blood sample (2 ml) was collected after 1 hour of having breakfast for its estimation. Commercially available ELISA kits purchased from Cloudclone Corp were used for hormone estimation. Due to the limited sample size, results were summarised descriptively. Group comparisons used ANOVA or non-parametric equivalents with significance level at p < 0.05. Results Of the 80 approached and screened participants, 25 were found eligible and recruited. Twenty participants completed the study (FS1: n = 6, FS2: n = 7, FS3: n = 7). Baseline characteristics were comparable across groups. A subjective increase in appetite (quantity of food intake) was reported by 4 individuals in each group. Minor improvements were noted in satiety and food taste, consistent with the traditional digestive-stimulant use of fenugreek. Bowel ease improved mainly in the FS3 group. A mild reduction in fasting and post-prandial glucose was observed in all groups, though values remained within physiological norms. Given the healthy status of the study participants, these findings need additional investigations. In case of fasting median levels of Acyl Ghrelin, FS1 group showed a mild increase on day 15 as compared to day 0 levels. Not much difference was observed in FS 2 group, while FS 3 group demonstrated a marginal decrease. The post-prandial median Acyl Ghrelin levels were found increased in FS1 and FS3 groups on day 15 compared to day 0, whereas no such increase was noted in FS2 group. On day 0, the post-prandial median Acyl Ghrelin levels were lower than fasting levels. The same trend was seen on day 15 in FS2 group. Contrary to this, FS1 and FS3 groups showed increase in the post-prandial levels compared to fasting levels. This increase was more pronounced in FS3 group. There was no significant difference within or among the groups (Table 1 ). Table 1 Effect of Fenugreek on Acyl Ghrelin Acyl Ghrelin (pg/ml) Fasting Post Prandial All groups Day 0 34 (11.7–59.6) 29.5 (9.8–52.5) FS 1 Day 15 41.8 ( 24.5–56.7) 44.2 (29.2–56.2) FS 2 35.4 (14.1–51.5) 30.2 (8.9–49.1) FS 3 31.6 (11.7–63.8) 45.3 (22.6–51.5) Data expressed as Median (Range) In the fasting state, there was slight reduction in median levels of Motilin on day 15 in FS1 and FS2 groups compared to day 0 levels while a little increase was seen in the FS3 group. The same trend was seen in the post-prandial levels. The post-prandial levels of motilin were lower than the fasting levels at baseline and even after treatment. No significant difference was seen within and among groups (Table 2 ). Table 2 Effect of Fenugreek on Motilin Motilin (pg/ml) Fasting Post Prandial All groups Day 0 75.34 ± 4.6 74.16 ± 5.3 FS 1 Day 15 73.66 ± 6.55 71.67 ± 7.16 FS 2 74.13 ± 2.61 73.54 ± 4.70 FS 3 78 ± 3.23 76.91 ± 2.92 Data expressed as Mean ± SD The GLP-1 levels were found below detection limits in all the groups at all-time points. Discussion: The lack of marked hormonal response may reflect the inclusion of normoglycemic, asymptomatic individuals and the short treatment duration. Previous studies have shown that modulatory effects on motilin and GLP-1 are more evident in individuals with gastric dysmotility or diabetes. 14,15 Only one participant from the FS1 group noted heat sensation and acidity during the study. Of the other two groups, five participants from the FS2 group suffered from either heat sensation, burning pain in chest, headache or black outs during the study. 16 , 17 These findings support wider traditional culinary use of FS1 ( T. foenum-graecum ). Overall, the findings suggest that in healthy individuals, T. foenum-graecum modestly influenced appetite and glucose trends 18 , 19 compared to T. corniculata , but definitive conclusions regarding gut hormone modulation cannot be made. Conclusion In this exploratory study, T. foenum-graecum demonstrated better tolerability and a mild, non-significant trend toward improved appetite and reduced glucose levels in healthy individuals. Changes in gastric hormones were minimal in all groups. These preliminary observations highlight the need for larger, controlled studies including populations with metabolic dysregulation to clarify the mechanistic role of fenugreek species in gut-hormone mediated metabolic effects. References Saikat K, Basu P, Zandi W, Cetzal-Ix C (2019) 28 - Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.): Distribution, Genetic Diversity, and Potential to Serve as an Industrial Crop for the Global Pharmaceutical, Nutraceutical, and Functional Food Industries, Editor(s): Ram B. Singh, Ronald Ross Watson, Toru Takahashi, The Role of Functional Food Security in Global Health, Academic Press, Pages 471–497 Verma PPS, Siddiaqi S, Nayyer MA, Kumar D, Padalia RC (2024) Exploration of Industrial, Traditional, and Pharmaceutical Applications of Diversity Rich Genus Trigonella : A Comprehensive Review. CurrAgri Res, 12(1) Khan J, Saeed MA, Touqeer S, Adnan S, Masood Z, Zaman M (2014) Antihyperglycemic, Hypoglycemic and Cytotoxic Activity of Albizia lebbek and Trigonella corniculata L. Res J Pharm Tech 7(2):191–195 Dangi R (2013) Diversity in genus Trigonella: Molecular and chemical characterization . Ph.D Thesis,SavitribaiPhule Pune University, Pune Dangi R, Tamhankar S, Choudhary R, Rao S (2016) Molecular phylogenetics and systematics of Trigonella L. (Fabaceae) based on nuclear ribosomal ITS and plastid trnL intron sequences. Genet Resour Crop Evol 63:79–96 Drucker DJ (2007) The role of gut hormones in glucose homeostasis. J Clin Invest 117(1):24–32 AbdallaIMM G- (2015) Physiological Funct Regul EurEndocrinol 11(2):90–95 Deloose E, Verbeure W, Depoortere I, Tack J (2019) Motilin: from gastric motility stimulation to hunger signalling. Nat Rev Endocrinol 15:238–250 Mori H, Verbeure W, Tanemoto R, Sosoranga ER, Tack J Physiological functions and potential clinical applications of motilin, Peptides ,2023, 160, 170905 Müller TD, Finan B, Bloom SR, D'Alessio D, Drucker DJ et al (2019) Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), MolMetab , 30, 72–130 Gaonkar N, Dangi R (2022) Comparative evaluation of antioxidant, antiglycation and α-glucosidase inhibitory potential of some indigenous medicinal Trigonella species. Vegetos- Int J Plant Res 36:1337–1346 Sher H, Bussmann RW, Paniagua-Zambrana NY (2021) Trigonella corniculata (L.) L. Trigonella gracilis Benth. Fabaceae.in Ethnobotany of the Himalayas. Ethnobotany of Mountain Regions, edited by R M Kunwar, H Sher & R W Bussmann (Springer International Publishing), 1–5 Khan J, Saeed MA, Touqeer S, Adnan S, Masood Z, Zaman M (2014) Antihyperglycemic, Hypoglycemic and Cytotoxic Activity of Albizia lebbek and Trigonella corniculata L. Res J Pharm Tech 7(2):191–195 Schmid R, Schusdziarra V, Allescher HD, Bofilias I, Buttermann G, Classen M (1991) Effect of motilin on gastric emptying in patient with diabetic gastroparesis. Diabetes Care 14(1):65–68 Camilleri M (2023) Mechanisms of GLP-1 receptor agonists in the gastrointestinal tract. Gastroenterology 165:431–446 Amiri Ardekani, Parvizi MM, Zare R, Mosaffa Jahromi, Rampp T, Pasalar M (2026) Exploring the adverse effects of Fenugreek in Humans: A scoping Review. Iran J Med Sci 51(1):4–18 Amit A, Shubhangi V, Ajay D, Neel C, Kastiri B (2023) Effect of fenugreek (Trigonella Foenum- graceum) seed powder on lipid profile: A single blind placebo controlled study. J Med Sci Res 11(2):114–118 Shabil M, Bushi G, Bodige PK, Maradi PS, Patra BP, Padhi BK, Khubchandani J (2023) Effect of fenugreek on hyperglycemia: A systematic review and meta analysis. Medicina 27(2):248 Gauri Mankar A, Tikalit S, Deshmukh J, Joshi S, Wankhede (2025) Formulation of fenugreekBased nutritional jelly for enhancing paediatric appetite. Int J Pharm Sci 3(5):3340–3349 Additional Declarations The authors declare no competing interests. Cite Share Download PDF Status: Posted Version 2 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Show more versions Research Square lets you share your work early, gain feedback from the community, and start making changes to your manuscript prior to peer review in a journal. As a division of Research Square Company, we’re committed to making research communication faster, fairer, and more useful. We do this by developing innovative software and high quality services for the global research community. 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Also discoverable on Platform About Our Team In Review Editorial Policies Advisory Board Help Center Resources Author Services Accessibility API Access RSS feed Manage Cookie Preferences © Research Square 2026 | ISSN 2693-5015 (online) Privacy Policy Terms of Service Do Not Sell My Personal Information {"props":{"pageProps":{"initialData":{"identity":"rs-9144438","acceptedTermsAndConditions":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"archivedVersions":[],"articleType":"Research Article","associatedPublications":[],"authors":[{"id":608064975,"identity":"75f8fc53-f4ec-4792-bc65-acad356adb43","order_by":0,"name":"Supriya Bhalerao","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Interactive Research School for Health Affairs (IRSHA), Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed (to be) University, Pune","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Supriya","middleName":"","lastName":"Bhalerao","suffix":""},{"id":608064976,"identity":"75382404-1eb8-4745-aa74-1fbc5c04d73f","order_by":1,"name":"Poonam Gupte","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Interactive Research School for Health Affairs (IRSHA), Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed (to be) University, Pune","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Poonam","middleName":"","lastName":"Gupte","suffix":""},{"id":608098621,"identity":"775dcdbe-ca1b-4200-9fff-8c7062a0020d","order_by":2,"name":"Shital Giramkar","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Interactive Research School for Health Affairs","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Shital","middleName":"","lastName":"Giramkar","suffix":""},{"id":608098622,"identity":"0411c1c1-ff49-43d8-8665-126fe1d091a7","order_by":3,"name":"Asmita Wele","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"D Y Patil College of Ayurveda and Research Center","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Asmita","middleName":"","lastName":"Wele","suffix":""},{"id":608098624,"identity":"2044fcb4-90b7-43db-8b46-393c960d550c","order_by":4,"name":"Rakhee Dangi","email":"data:image/png;base64,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","orcid":"","institution":"Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Information Technology \u0026 Bio-Technology","correspondingAuthor":true,"prefix":"","firstName":"Rakhee","middleName":"","lastName":"Dangi","suffix":""}],"badges":[],"createdAt":"2026-03-17 05:49:14","currentVersionCode":2,"declarations":{"humanSubjects":true,"vertebrateSubjects":false,"conflictsOfInterestStatement":false,"humanSubjectEthicalGuidelines":true,"humanSubjectConsent":true,"humanSubjectClinicalTrial":true,"humanSubjectCaseReport":false,"vertebrateSubjectEthicalGuidelines":false},"doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-9144438/v2","doiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-9144438/v2","draftVersion":[],"editorialEvents":[],"editorialNote":"","failedWorkflow":false,"files":[{"id":106453592,"identity":"832afebc-d19a-4783-8acf-40948ead6eb2","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-04-08 17:11:04","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":389496,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-9144438/v2/73ca6c40-dd6d-4463-aecb-0112a2decd0a.pdf"}],"financialInterests":"The authors declare no competing interests.","formattedTitle":"\u003cp\u003eEffects of \u003cem\u003eTrigonella foenum-graecum\u003c/em\u003e L. and \u003cem\u003eTrigonella balansae\u003c/em\u003e Boiss. \u0026amp; Reut on Gastric Hormones in Healthy Adults: An Exploratory Study\u003c/p\u003e","fulltext":[{"header":"Introduction","content":"\u003cp\u003eFenugreek (\u003cem\u003eTrigonella\u003c/em\u003e spp.) is widely consumed in India as a food and traditional remedy.\u003csup\u003e\u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/sup\u003e Experimental and clinical studies have reported its anti-diabetic, digestive, hypo-cholesterolemic and antioxidant effects, largely attributed to phytochemicals such as saponins, galactomannans, diosgenin and trigonelline.\u003csup\u003e\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR4\" citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/sup\u003e Emerging evidence suggests that gut hormones including acyl ghrelin, motilin and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) play an important role in appetite regulation and glucose homeostasis.\u003csup\u003e\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR6 CR7 CR8 CR9\" citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e10\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/sup\u003e The influence of fenugreek on these gastric hormones in humans remains underexplored.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe genus \u003cem\u003eTrigonella\u003c/em\u003e L. includes a number of medicinal and aromatic species commonly called as Fenugreek and widely used in traditional medicine\u003csup\u003e\u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/sup\u003e. In India two species, namely, \u003cem\u003eT. foenum-graecum\u003c/em\u003e L. (Fenugreek, methi) and \u003cem\u003eT. balansae Boiss. and Reut\u003c/em\u003e (sickle fruit fenugreek, kasurimethi/ Champamethi /Marwari methi) are not only consumed as vegetables and spice but also used in management and treatment of diabetes\u003csup\u003e\u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e10\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/sup\u003e. Several beneficial physiological attributes of these \u003cem\u003eTrigonella\u003c/em\u003e species regarding health have been reported in various \u003cem\u003ein vivo\u003c/em\u003e as well as clinical studies over the past few decades. Antidiabetic, hypocholesterolemic, antioxidant, digestive stimulant, and hepatoprotective effect are some of the activities that have been proven for \u003cem\u003eT. foenum-graecum\u003c/em\u003e L, attributable to its phytoconstituents. \u003cem\u003eT. balansae\u003c/em\u003e, also termed as \u003cem\u003eT. corniculata\u003c/em\u003e has been shown to possess anti- oxidant, anti- hyperglycemic, anti- cancerous, properties\u003csup\u003e\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR12\" citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e13\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/sup\u003e. Although both the species are used traditionally for digestion and metabolic health, comparative clinical data are lacking.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis exploratory study assessed short-term effects of these two species, individually and in combination, on gastric hormones, glucose levels and appetite in healthy adults. The findings were intended to generate preliminary data for future hypothesis-driven trials.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Materials and Methods","content":"\u003cp\u003e A randomized, open-label exploratory study was conducted after obtaining Institutional Ethics Committee approval (BVDUCOA/EC/750A/2023-24) and registration in Clinical Trial Registry of India (CTRI/2023/07/054751). Apparently healthy individuals (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;24) of either sex in the age group 18\u0026ndash;35 years were recruited. Those with known endocrine, gastrointestinal, hepatic, renal or psychiatric disorders, or those using supplements/herbal medications, were excluded.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAuthenticated seeds of \u003cem\u003eT. foenum-graecum\u003c/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eT. balansae\u003c/em\u003e were roasted, powdered, and encapsulated. The participants were randomly allocated to receive either of fenugreek variety or combination of both. The first group received capsules of \u003cem\u003eT. foenum-graecum\u003c/em\u003e (FS 1), second group received capsules of \u003cem\u003eT. balansae\u003c/em\u003e (FS 2) and the third group received capsules of both FS 1 \u0026amp; FS 2. The dose for FS 1 and FS 2 groups each, was 2000 mg/day- 2 capsules twice a day for 7 days followed by 3000 mg/day\u0026thinsp;\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;2 capsules thrice a day, for further 7 days, prior to meals, decided as per literature FS 3 group was given (FS 1) 1000mg/day + (FS 2) 1000mg/day (1 capsule from each species) twice a day for 7 days, followed by (FS 1) 1500 mg/day + (FS 2) 1500 mg/day thrice a day for further 7 days, before meals. The total treatment duration was 14 days and participants were instructed to avoid other medicines during this period.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe outcome variables were weight, blood sugar, gastric hormones- acyl ghrelin, motilin and Glucagon- like peptide 1 (GLP 1) done before and after the course of Fenugreek treatment. Other than weight, all the parameters were done in fasting as well as post prandial state \u003cem\u003ei.e\u003c/em\u003e. 2 hours after breakfast. A Simplified nutritional appetite questionnaire\u003csup\u003e\u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e14\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/sup\u003e (SNAQ) was administered to all participants for assessment of appetite, satiety, taste of food, number of meals along with assessment of bowel movements based on stool consistency and defecation ease. All parameters were done at baseline (day 0) and day 15, except SNAQ and bowel assessment which were additionally done on day 7 (telephonic follow up). Adverse events, if any, were noted at every follow up.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFor estimation of hormones, the serum was separated from collected blood and stored in aliquots at -80\u003csup\u003e0\u003c/sup\u003eC in a deep freezer. Considering the biphasic secretion of GLP 1 as per literature, an additional blood sample (2 ml) was collected after 1 hour of having breakfast for its estimation. Commercially available ELISA kits purchased from Cloudclone Corp were used for hormone estimation.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDue to the limited sample size, results were summarised descriptively. Group comparisons used ANOVA or non-parametric equivalents with significance level at p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Results","content":"\u003cp\u003eOf the 80 approached and screened participants, 25 were found eligible and recruited. Twenty participants completed the study (FS1: n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;6, FS2: n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;7, FS3: n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;7). Baseline characteristics were comparable across groups.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eA subjective increase in appetite (quantity of food intake) was reported by 4 individuals in each group. Minor improvements were noted in satiety and food taste, consistent with the traditional digestive-stimulant use of fenugreek. Bowel ease improved mainly in the FS3 group.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eA mild reduction in fasting and post-prandial glucose was observed in all groups, though values remained within physiological norms. Given the healthy status of the study participants, these findings need additional investigations.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn case of fasting median levels of Acyl Ghrelin, FS1 group showed a mild increase on day 15 as compared to day 0 levels. Not much difference was observed in FS 2 group, while FS 3 group demonstrated a marginal decrease. The post-prandial median Acyl Ghrelin levels were found increased in FS1 and FS3 groups on day 15 compared to day 0, whereas no such increase was noted in FS2 group. On day 0, the post-prandial median Acyl Ghrelin levels were lower than fasting levels. The same trend was seen on day 15 in FS2 group. Contrary to this, FS1 and FS3 groups showed increase in the post-prandial levels compared to fasting levels. This increase was more pronounced in FS3 group. There was no significant difference within or among the groups (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab1\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 1\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEffect of Fenugreek on Acyl Ghrelin\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"4\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c2\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAcyl Ghrelin (pg/ml)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFasting\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePost Prandial\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAll groups\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDay 0\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e34 (11.7\u0026ndash;59.6)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e29.5 (9.8\u0026ndash;52.5)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFS 1\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"2\" rowspan=\"3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDay 15\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e41.8 ( 24.5\u0026ndash;56.7)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e44.2 (29.2\u0026ndash;56.2)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFS 2\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e35.4 (14.1\u0026ndash;51.5)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e30.2 (8.9\u0026ndash;49.1)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFS 3\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e31.6 (11.7\u0026ndash;63.8)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e45.3 (22.6\u0026ndash;51.5)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003ctfoot\u003e \u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd colspan=\"4\"\u003eData expressed as Median (Range)\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tfoot\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn the fasting state, there was slight reduction in median levels of Motilin on day 15 in FS1 and FS2 groups compared to day 0 levels while a little increase was seen in the FS3 group. The same trend was seen in the post-prandial levels. The post-prandial levels of motilin were lower than the fasting levels at baseline and even after treatment. No significant difference was seen within and among groups (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab2\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 2\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEffect of Fenugreek on Motilin\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"4\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\"\u0026plusmn;\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\"\u0026plusmn;\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c2\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMotilin (pg/ml)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFasting\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePost Prandial\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAll groups\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDay 0\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\"\u0026plusmn;\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e75.34\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;4.6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\"\u0026plusmn;\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e74.16\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;5.3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFS 1\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"2\" rowspan=\"3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDay 15\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\"\u0026plusmn;\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e73.66 \u0026plusmn; 6.55\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\"\u0026plusmn;\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e71.67 \u0026plusmn; 7.16\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFS 2\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\"\u0026plusmn;\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e74.13 \u0026plusmn; 2.61\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\"\u0026plusmn;\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e73.54 \u0026plusmn; 4.70\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFS 3\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\"\u0026plusmn;\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e78 \u0026plusmn; 3.23\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\"\u0026plusmn;\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e76.91 \u0026plusmn; 2.92\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003ctfoot\u003e \u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd colspan=\"4\"\u003eData expressed as Mean\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;SD\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tfoot\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe GLP-1 levels were found below detection limits in all the groups at all-time points.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Discussion:","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe lack of marked hormonal response may reflect the inclusion of normoglycemic, asymptomatic individuals and the short treatment duration. Previous studies have shown that modulatory effects on motilin and GLP-1 are more evident in individuals with gastric dysmotility or diabetes. \u003csup\u003e14,15\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eOnly one participant from the FS1 group noted heat sensation and acidity during the study. Of the other two groups, five participants from the FS2 group suffered from either heat sensation, burning pain in chest, headache or black outs during the study.\u003csup\u003e\u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e16\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e17\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/sup\u003e These findings support wider traditional culinary use of FS1 (\u003cem\u003eT. foenum-graecum\u003c/em\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eOverall, the findings suggest that in healthy individuals, \u003cem\u003eT. foenum-graecum\u003c/em\u003e modestly influenced appetite and glucose trends\u003csup\u003e\u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e18\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/sup\u003ecompared to \u003cem\u003eT. corniculata\u003c/em\u003e, but definitive conclusions regarding gut hormone modulation cannot be made.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Conclusion","content":"\u003cp\u003eIn this exploratory study, \u003cem\u003eT. foenum-graecum\u003c/em\u003e demonstrated better tolerability and a mild, non-significant trend toward improved appetite and reduced glucose levels in healthy individuals. Changes in gastric hormones were minimal in all groups. These preliminary observations highlight the need for larger, controlled studies including populations with metabolic dysregulation to clarify the mechanistic role of fenugreek species in gut-hormone mediated metabolic effects.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSaikat K, Basu P, Zandi W, Cetzal-Ix C (2019) 28 - Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.): Distribution, Genetic Diversity, and Potential to Serve as an Industrial Crop for the Global Pharmaceutical, Nutraceutical, and Functional Food Industries, Editor(s): Ram B. Singh, Ronald Ross Watson, Toru Takahashi, The Role of Functional Food Security in Global Health, Academic Press, Pages 471\u0026ndash;497\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eVerma PPS, Siddiaqi S, Nayyer MA, Kumar D, Padalia RC (2024) Exploration of Industrial, Traditional, and Pharmaceutical Applications of Diversity Rich Genus \u003cem\u003eTrigonella\u003c/em\u003e: A Comprehensive Review. CurrAgri Res, 12(1)\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eKhan J, Saeed MA, Touqeer S, Adnan S, Masood Z, Zaman M (2014) Antihyperglycemic, Hypoglycemic and Cytotoxic Activity of \u003cem\u003eAlbizia lebbek\u003c/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eTrigonella corniculata\u003c/em\u003e L. Res J Pharm Tech 7(2):191\u0026ndash;195\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDangi R (2013) \u003cem\u003eDiversity in genus Trigonella: Molecular and chemical characterization\u003c/em\u003e. Ph.D Thesis,SavitribaiPhule Pune University, Pune\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDangi R, Tamhankar S, Choudhary R, Rao S (2016) Molecular phylogenetics and systematics of Trigonella L. (Fabaceae) based on nuclear ribosomal ITS and plastid trnL intron sequences. Genet Resour Crop Evol 63:79\u0026ndash;96\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDrucker DJ (2007) The role of gut hormones in glucose homeostasis. J Clin Invest 117(1):24\u0026ndash;32\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAbdallaIMM G- (2015) Physiological Funct Regul EurEndocrinol 11(2):90\u0026ndash;95\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDeloose E, Verbeure W, Depoortere I, Tack J (2019) Motilin: from gastric motility stimulation to hunger signalling. Nat Rev Endocrinol 15:238\u0026ndash;250\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMori H, Verbeure W, Tanemoto R, Sosoranga ER, Tack J Physiological functions and potential clinical applications of motilin,\u003cem\u003ePeptides\u003c/em\u003e,2023, 160, 170905\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eM\u0026uuml;ller TD, Finan B, Bloom SR, D'Alessio D, Drucker DJ et al (2019) Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1),\u003cem\u003eMolMetab\u003c/em\u003e, 30, 72\u0026ndash;130\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGaonkar N, Dangi R (2022) Comparative evaluation of antioxidant, antiglycation and α-glucosidase inhibitory potential of some indigenous medicinal \u003cem\u003eTrigonella\u003c/em\u003e species. Vegetos- Int J Plant Res 36:1337\u0026ndash;1346\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSher H, Bussmann RW, Paniagua-Zambrana NY (2021) \u003cem\u003eTrigonella corniculata\u003c/em\u003e (L.) L. \u003cem\u003eTrigonella gracilis\u003c/em\u003e Benth. Fabaceae.in\u003cem\u003eEthnobotany of the Himalayas. Ethnobotany of Mountain Regions, edited by\u003c/em\u003e R M Kunwar, H Sher \u0026amp; R W Bussmann (Springer International Publishing), 1\u0026ndash;5\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eKhan J, Saeed MA, Touqeer S, Adnan S, Masood Z, Zaman M (2014) Antihyperglycemic, Hypoglycemic and Cytotoxic Activity of \u003cem\u003eAlbizia lebbek\u003c/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eTrigonella corniculata\u003c/em\u003e L. Res J Pharm Tech 7(2):191\u0026ndash;195\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSchmid R, Schusdziarra V, Allescher HD, Bofilias I, Buttermann G, Classen M (1991) Effect of motilin on gastric emptying in patient with diabetic gastroparesis. Diabetes Care 14(1):65\u0026ndash;68\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCamilleri M (2023) Mechanisms of GLP-1 receptor agonists in the gastrointestinal tract. Gastroenterology 165:431\u0026ndash;446\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAmiri Ardekani, Parvizi MM, Zare R, Mosaffa Jahromi, Rampp T, Pasalar M (2026) Exploring the adverse effects of Fenugreek in Humans: A scoping Review. Iran J Med Sci 51(1):4\u0026ndash;18\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAmit A, Shubhangi V, Ajay D, Neel C, Kastiri B (2023) Effect of fenugreek (Trigonella Foenum- graceum) seed powder on lipid profile: A single blind placebo controlled study. J Med Sci Res 11(2):114\u0026ndash;118\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShabil M, Bushi G, Bodige PK, Maradi PS, Patra BP, Padhi BK, Khubchandani J (2023) Effect of fenugreek on hyperglycemia: A systematic review and meta analysis. Medicina 27(2):248\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGauri Mankar A, Tikalit S, Deshmukh J, Joshi S, Wankhede (2025) Formulation of fenugreekBased nutritional jelly for enhancing paediatric appetite. Int J Pharm Sci 3(5):3340\u0026ndash;3349\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":true,"hideJournal":true,"highlight":"","institution":"Interactive Research School for Health Affairs, Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Pune","isAcceptedByJournal":false,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"Acyl ghrelin, Motilin, GLP-1, Trigonella foenum-graecum, Trigonella balansae, exploratory clinical study","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-9144438/v2","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-9144438/v2","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003ch2\u003eBackground\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eFenugreek (\u003cem\u003eTrigonella\u003c/em\u003e spp.) is traditionally used as an appetite stimulant and anti-diabetic herb. Modulation of gut hormones is one potential mechanism for its metabolic effects, but direct clinical evidence is limited.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eObjective\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eTo conduct an exploratory assessment of the short-term effects of two fenugreek species \u003cem\u003eT. foenum-graecum\u003c/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eT. balansae\u003c/em\u003e on appetite, glucose levels, and selected gastric hormones in healthy adults.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eMethods\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eTwenty healthy individuals (18\u0026ndash;35 years) were randomized into three groups: \u003cem\u003eT. foenum-graecum\u003c/em\u003e (FS1), \u003cem\u003eT. balansae\u003c/em\u003e (FS2), or a combination (FS3). Participants received 2\u0026ndash;3 g/day of the respective seed powders for 14 days. Outcomes assessed at baseline and day 15 included fasting and post-prandial glucose, acyl ghrelin, motilin, and GLP-1. Appetite was assessed using the Simplified Nutritional Appetite Questionnaire.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eResults\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eAppetite improvement was reported by 4 participants in each group. Mean glucose values showed a mild reduction across groups but remained within normal limits. Acyl ghrelin showed a small, non-significant rise in FS1, while motilin exhibited minor changes without consistent trends. GLP-1 levels remained below detectable limits with the assay used. Adverse events were fewer in FS1 compared to FS2 and FS3.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eConclusion\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eShort-term administration of \u003cem\u003eT. foenum-graecum\u003c/em\u003e was associated with improved subjective appetite and a mild decrease in glucose levels, though hormonal changes were minimal and non-significant. Given the very small sample size, these preliminary findings require cautious interpretation and validation in adequately powered clinical studies.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Effects of Trigonella foenum-graecum L. and Trigonella balansae Boiss. \u0026amp; Reut on Gastric Hormones in Healthy Adults: An Exploratory Study","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":2,"date":"2026-04-08 17:10:57","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-9144438/v2","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}},{"code":1,"date":"2026-03-18 07:34:08","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-9144438/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"f6dc1fda-6f92-4ff1-b87c-78a06c71b8e2","owner":[],"postedDate":"April 8th, 2026","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"posted","subjectAreas":[],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2026-03-18T07:34:08+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2026-04-08 17:10:57","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v2","identity":"rs-9144438","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-9144438","identity":"rs-9144438","version":["v2"]},"buildId":"XKTyCvWXoU3ODBz1xrDgd","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}