Type 2 diabetes affects more than 220 million people worldwide according to the World Health Organization. Increased consumption of refined carbohydrates is a critical factor for the prevalence of this metabolic disorder. Type 2 diabetes is often associated with insulin resistance. Cinnamon can reduce insulin resistance and aid in preventing and reversing type 2 diabetes.
Type 2 Diabetes
Consumption of refined carbohydrates can raise the plasma glucose level and the risk of type 2 diabetes. If the elevation of plasma glucose is frequent or sustained, then type 2 diabetes can develop. Type 2 diabetes is indicated by a fasting blood glucose of 130 mg/dl or higher. Normal fasting blood glucose is 100 mg/dl.
Increase in Insulin Resistance
In the diabetic state, the body's ability to utilize glucose is often impaired by an increase in insulin resistance. Measures that improve insulin sensitivity would lower insulin resistance and enable insulin to manage the body's energy nutrients more effectively so that chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes can be avoided. Cinnamon is an important nutrient that can increase insulin sensitivity and aid in reversing and managing type 2 diabetes. Mehtylhydroxy chalcome polymer, or MPCP, is the chemical in cinnamon that produces this change in insulin sensitivity. This metabolism-boosting effect of cinnamon can be achieved by consuming 1 g per day. Note that you should consult a doctor before starting a new treatment.
Refined Carbohydrates Support Type 2 Diabetes
Refined carbohydrates, such as refined sugar, are rapidly absorbed from the small intestine, leading to sharp elevations of plasma glucose. The body utilizes the plasma glucose for energy. The body also maintains blood glucose at a level that supports good health. Excess plasma glucose is stored as glycogen and fat so that the body's energy needs and healthy plasma levels of glucose are simultaneously maintained. When the body is unable to adequately manage plasma glucose, type 2 diabetes and other chronic diseases can develop.
Role of Insulin in Type 2 Diabetes
Insulin is the primary hormone that regulates plasma glucose. When plasma glucose rises, as would be the case after a meal, insulin levels would also rise to bring the plasma glucose down to normal levels. Insulin-mediated uptake and utilization of glucose by muscles and other tissues is responsible for the normalization of the plasma glucose level.
One factor that causes impairment of insulin action is down-regulation of the insulin receptors. When insulin is down-regulated, high concentrations of insulin are needed to activate the transport of glucose into the cells. Sustained elevation of plasma glucose level is one factor that causes the down-regulation of the insulin receptors.
References
- World Health Organization; Prevalence of Diabetes.
- Agricultural Research Magazine; Cinnamon Extracts Boost Insulin Sensitivity; Anderson, R. et al.; July 2000.
- Diabetes Care; Cinnamon Improves Glucose and Lipids of People With Type 2 Diabetes; Khan, Adam et al; December 2003
- Journal of Pharmacy Practice; Complementary and Alternative Medicines for the Treatment of Diabetes; Tackett, Kimberly L. et al; December, 2009
