Cinnamon, which is a spice derived from the bark of the Cinnamomum tree, is used in both food and medicine. It contains dietary fiber, manganese and antioxidant compounds called polyphenols. Research indicates that cinnamon might lower blood sugar levels in people with or without diabetes.
Type 2 Diabetics
In research reported in the December 2003 issue of the journal "Diabetes Care," scientists from NWFP Agricultural University in Pakistan examined the effects of cinnamon on blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetics. For 40 days, subjects either consumed a placebo or 1, 3, or 6g of cinnamon. At the end of the study, researchers found that 1,3, or 6g of cinnamon reduced glucose levels compared to a placebo.
Cinnamon Extract
Researchers from the University of Hannover in Germany investigated the impact of cinnamon extract on glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. Participants randomly received either cinnamon extract or a placebo three times a day for four months. Cinnamon extract was equivalent to 3g of cinnamon. At the end of the study, which was published in the May 2006 issue of the "European Journal of Clinical Investigation," scientists observed that the cinnamon extract group experienced decreases in blood glucose compared to the placebo group.
Healthy Individuals
Scientists from Malmo University Hospital in Sweden examined the effects of cinnamon on glucose levels in healthy adults after meals. In the report, which was published in the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition," researchers found that subjects consuming rice pudding with 6g of cinnamon had lower glucose levels after eating it compared to those consuming just rice pudding.
Considerations
Although cinnamon might lower glucose levels, people who are allergic and pregnant should avoid its use. In addition, skin rash has been a reported side effect after exposure. Consult your health care provider before consuming cinnamon, especially if you are pregnant or taking medications.
References
- Diabetes Care: Cinnamon Improves Glucose and Lipids of People With Type 2 Diabetes; A. Khan et al; December 2003
- European Journal of Clinical Investigation: Effects of a Cinnamon Extract on Plasma Glucose, HbA, and Serum Lipids in Diabetes Mellitus Type 2; B. Mang et al; May 2006
- American Journal of Clinical Nutrition: Effect of Cinnamon on Postprandial Blood Glucose, Gastric Emptying, and Satiety in Healthy Subjects; J. Hlebowicz et al; June 2007
- University of Michigan Health System: Cinnamon
