Scientists tested a special type of processed seed called samh on rats eating unhealthy high-fat diets. They found that fermented samh seeds worked better than raw or sprouted versions at reducing weight gain, blood sugar, and harmful fats in the blood. The fermented seeds also helped reduce inflammation and protected the liver from damage. While this study was done on rats, it suggests that fermented samh seeds might help people manage cholesterol problems and keep their livers healthy when eating high-fat foods.

The Quick Take

  • What they studied: How different ways of preparing samh seeds (raw, sprouted, or fermented) affect health problems caused by eating too much fat
  • Who participated: 48 laboratory rats divided into 6 groups and fed different diets for 8 weeks
  • Key finding: Fermented samh seeds worked best at reducing weight gain, blood sugar, cholesterol, and liver damage compared to raw or sprouted seeds
  • What it means for you: Fermented samh seeds may help protect against health problems from high-fat diets, but human studies are needed to confirm these benefits

The Research Details

Researchers divided 48 rats into six groups. Some rats ate normal food, others ate high-fat diets, and some got high-fat diets mixed with 15% of different samh seed preparations. The study lasted 8 weeks, after which scientists measured various health markers including weight, blood sugar, cholesterol levels, and liver health. They also looked at inflammation markers and antioxidant levels in the blood and examined liver tissue under a microscope to check for damage.

This controlled approach allows scientists to directly compare how different seed preparations affect the same health problems. By using a high-fat diet to create health issues similar to those seen in people with metabolic syndrome, researchers can test potential treatments in a controlled environment.

The study used proper control groups and measured multiple health markers over a reasonable time period. However, it was conducted only on rats, so the results may not directly apply to humans. The sample size was appropriate for animal research, and the researchers examined both blood markers and actual tissue damage.

What the Results Show

Fermented samh seed flour showed the strongest benefits among all treatments tested. Rats eating the fermented seeds had less weight gain, lower blood sugar, and better insulin sensitivity compared to those on high-fat diets alone. Their cholesterol and other harmful blood fats also decreased significantly. The fermented seeds reduced inflammation markers like TNF-ฮฑ, IL-6, and IL-1ฮฒ while increasing beneficial anti-inflammatory compounds. Additionally, these rats showed less oxidative stress, which means their cells experienced less damage from harmful molecules called free radicals.

The fermented seeds also boosted the rats’ natural antioxidant systems, increasing levels of protective enzymes like superoxide dismutase and catalase. Liver examination showed that rats eating fermented samh seeds had much healthier liver tissue compared to those on high-fat diets. Raw and sprouted samh seeds also provided some benefits, but they were not as strong as the fermented version.

This study builds on existing research showing that fermented foods often have enhanced health benefits compared to their raw forms. The fermentation process appears to create or concentrate beneficial compounds that help fight inflammation and oxidative stress, which aligns with other studies on fermented plant foods.

This research was conducted only on rats, so we don’t know if humans would experience the same benefits. The study lasted only 8 weeks, which doesn’t tell us about long-term effects. Also, samh seeds may not be readily available in many parts of the world, and we don’t know the optimal amount humans should consume or potential side effects.

The Bottom Line

While promising, these results need confirmation in human studies before making specific recommendations. People interested in similar benefits might consider incorporating other fermented foods into their diets, as fermentation generally appears to enhance the health benefits of plant foods.

People with high cholesterol, metabolic syndrome, or liver concerns might find this research interesting, but should not make dietary changes based solely on animal studies. Those already eating high-fat diets might benefit most from proven dietary improvements.

In the rat study, benefits were seen after 8 weeks. If similar effects occur in humans, improvements might be noticeable within 2-3 months of consistent consumption, but this is speculative without human trials.

Want to Apply This Research?

  • Track daily intake of fermented foods (like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi) and monitor cholesterol levels and liver function tests over time
  • Gradually increase consumption of naturally fermented foods while reducing high-fat processed foods, logging both changes in the app
  • Monitor weight, energy levels, and digestive health weekly while tracking fermented food intake, and schedule regular blood work to assess cholesterol and liver markers

This research was conducted on laboratory rats and has not been tested in humans. Do not use this information to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease. Consult with a healthcare provider before making significant dietary changes, especially if you have existing health conditions or take medications.