If you have type 2 diabetes, you may have difficulty controlling your blood glucose. Unfortunately, people with diabetes are also at risk for high cholesterol and triglycerides. Elevated levels of these lipids can lead to a heart attack or stroke. Controlling your blood glucose and lipids is vital to your health. Even with prescription drugs, achieving your target goal could be difficult. But you may improve your results by adding cinnamon to your diet.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a household spice that has been used to boost the flavor and aroma of foods for centuries. It has also been used to treat a range of health problems. Researchers are looking at the role that this aromatic spice might play in helping to control blood glucose and lipid levels in people with diabetes. Although the studies are not conclusive, the evidence suggests that cinnamon can help reduce blood glucose levels and may improve serum lipids as well.
Blood Glucose
In a study reported in the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition," researchers found that subjects treated with 6 g of cinnamon with rice pudding reduced post-meal blood glucose levels. In another study, researchers at Southern Utah University found that when young, healthy adults consumed cinnamon supplements, peak blood sugar levels decreased in those with a family history of diabetes. According to an article published in the "Proceedings of the Nutrition Society," researchers found that cinnamon reduced fasting blood sugar by 18 to 29 percent in subjects with type 2 diabetes.
Serum Lipids
Cinnamon may improve cholesterol levels in people with type 2 diabetes, according to Alam Khanand colleagues who studied the effects of cinnamon on 60 adults with type 2 diabetes. The study participants received 1, 3 or 6 g of cinnamon for 40 days. At the end of the study, researchers observed that cinnamon consumption resulted in lower serum lipids. Total cholesterol fell by 12 to 26 percent. Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol was down by 7 to 27 percent. And fasting triglycerides were down by 23 to 30 percent. No significant changes in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol were observed. The placebo group also showed no significant changes.
Active Compounds
The effects of cinnamon on blood glucose levels may be due to the presence of chromium and polyphenols found in the spice, according to a study published in the "Proceedings of the Nutrition Society."
Ways to Boost Cinnamon Intake
Cinnamon is a household spice that can be easily added foods. It will not only add flavor and aroma to your favorite dishes, it may provide some real health benefits as well. Start by sprinkling it on your breakfast cereal. Add it to meat, fish, poultry, soups and salads. Toss a dash in smoothies, chocolate milk, tea or coffee, or add a touch of cinnamon to fresh fruits, baked goods or your favorite desserts.
References
- American Journal of Clinical Nutrition: Effect of Cinnamon on Postprandial Blood Glucose, Gastric Emptying and Satiety in Healthy Subjects
- FASEB Journal: Effect of Cinnamon on Postprandial Glucose
- Proceedings of the Nutrition Society: Chromium and Polyphenols from Cinnamon Improve Insulin Sensitivity
- Diabetes Care: Cinnamon Improves Glucose and Lipids of People With Type 2 Diabetes
