Black cumin seeds lower cholesterol in trial
Black cumin seeds may help reduce cholesterol levels, suggests a new study.
Why it matters
- Black cumin seeds, already known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, show promise in improving blood lipid profiles.
- Better lipid profiles can reduce the risk of heart problems and premature death.
By the numbers
- 5g of black cumin seed powder daily for 8 weeks.
- Participants saw significant reductions in triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and total cholesterol.
- HDL cholesterol levels increased.
- 42 participants, all with BMI >25 (overweight), 20 in control group.
The big picture
- The study suggests black cumin seeds could be useful as a functional food for preventing obesity and lifestyle-related diseases.
- Cellular experiments showed inhibition of adipogenesis (fat cell formation and maturation).
What they're saying
- One comment noted the study's interesting results and potential worth for further investigation.
- Another comment highlighted the significant amount of cumin powder used in the study.
Caveats
- The study had a small sample size (42 participants).
- More extensive and longer-term studies are needed to confirm these effects, especially regarding insulin resistance in diabetes and inflammatory markers.
What’s next
- The research team plans longer-term and larger-scale clinical trials to investigate the effects of black cumin on metabolism, insulin resistance, and inflammatory markers.
- Further studies could explore the potential of black cumin seeds as a functional food for preventing obesity and related diseases.