Cinnamon powder may have some healthy benefits for people at risk for or with type 2 diabetes. It can help to control blood glucose levels and also lower bad cholesterol. If you are at risk for diabetes or heart disease, talk to your doctor to learn more about how cinnamon may offer an inexpensive and safe way to reduce your chances of developing disease.
Apple Pie
The blood sugar-lowering properties of cinnamon were originally discovered by scientists studying apple pie. "New Scientist" magazine explains that scientists examining the effects of common foods on blood sugar levels at the U.S. Department of Agriculture found that apple pie could reduce blood sugar. Upon deeper examination, it was found that cinnamon, specifically an active compound in cinnamon called MHCP, can help to reduce blood sugar levels. While apple pie may not be the best option for people looking to control blood sugar, cinnamon can easily be added to coffee, tea or other healthy foods that are already part of the diet.
MHCP Function
The MHCP in cinnamon works very similarly to insulin. A 2003 report in "Diabetes Care" explains that MHCP acts on the same chemical receptors as insulin to trigger glucose control mechanisms. By taking cinnamon or MHCP, diabetics may be able to increase insulin function that they have lost and process glucose in more normal manner.
Taking Cinnamon
MHCP is water soluble, meaning that it is not found in cinnamon oils. In order to get the maximal benefits of MHCP, cinnamon should be taken as a powder or from cinnamon sticks. Only about ½ tsp of cinnamon per day is needed to help lower blood sugar. While it is possible to get MHCP from conventional cinnamon, the website Natural News reports that common cinnamon powders in grocery stores may be too old have health benefits. To ensure that you receive the maximal health benefits from cinnamon, Natural News recommends using a high-quality cinnamon supplement from a reputable manufacturer.
Additional Benefits
In addition to lowering blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes, cinnamon can also lower bad LDL cholesterol levels. According to the 2003 study published in "Diabetes Care," cinnamon's healthful effects on blood sugar are further translated into benefits for cholesterol levels. Besides controlling blood sugar and lowering bad cholesterol, cinnamon and MHCP also lower blood triglyceride levels. If you have diabetes or are at risk for heart disease, talk to your doctor to learn more about how cinnamon may benefit your condition.
