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Black cumin is used to treat menstrual pain, eczema, bronchitis and digestive problems. A new study has revealed that the spice has the ability to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of obesity. According to Verywell Health, here’s how you can make black cumin a part of your healthy diet.
Black cumin controls cholesterol levels
A study published in the Food Science and Nutrition Journal conducted experiments on 42 participants aged 20 to 50 years. People who consumed at least 5 grams of black cumin powder for eight weeks had lower levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, and higher levels of HDL (“good”) cholesterol.
Akiko Kojima-Yusa, associate professor at Osaka Metropolitan University, tells Verywell Health that black cumin is a “promising natural metabolic health-supporting food.”
Also read: Oncologist shares 5 evidence-based strategies to reduce risk of colorectal cancer to suit Indian lifestyle
Can black cumin fight obesity?
According to Kojima-Yusa, black cumin may reduce oxidative stress and prevent the formation of fat cells. This spice, which contains an active compound called thymoquinone, also fights chronic inflammation.
However, Chiara Ortiz-Pujols, director of obesity medicine at Staten Island University Hospital in North Carolina, told Verywell Health that the medical community currently lacks sufficient data.
,I would caution people to understand that this is a good start, but it is not enough information, and we need a lot more to understand the long-term prospects,” he told the outlet.
The study, published in Food Science and Nutrition, included only participants from Japan. Ortiz-Pujols said they were unsure whether black cumin seeds would have the same effect in other populations.
Also read: Max Hospital diabetologist explains impact of air pollution on diabetes management: ‘Slowed glucose metabolism…’
How to include black cumin in diet
You can use black cumin as a cooking spice in your diet. In India and the Middle East, black cumin is used in curries, vegetables, dal, bread and pickles.
Iman Majd, MD, MS, associate professor at the University of Washington, tells Verywell Health that a person should consume about 1/2 teaspoon of black cumin per day.
500 mg to 1000 mg black cumin oil capsules are also available in the market.
“Black cumin may be a helpful additional tool for weight, blood sugar, and general heart health,” Majd emphasizes. However, he added that it cannot replace “a healthy diet, activity or prescribed medications.”
According to a 2020 study, black cumin may help reduce triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and fasting blood glucose in people with type 2 diabetes.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you have about a medical condition.
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