Obesity is a prominent problem in the United States. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that 60 percent of Americans are overweight and 25 percent are obese. It notes that there are no herbs or supplements that can assist in significant weight loss. In the case of polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, however, there is some evidence that cinnamon may decrease blood glucose levels which could result in weight loss.
Polycystic Ovary Disease
PCOS is a condition in which a woman’s ovaries contain an abnormal number of tiny underdeveloped egg-containing cysts, coupled with several other symptoms. These symptoms may start during adolescence, into a woman’s mid-twenties. If left untreated, PCOS may lead to an increased risk of diabetes and heart disease in later years. Symptoms include irregular periods, infertility or reduced fertility, alopecia, oily skin and acne, abundance of facial or body hair, depression, moodiness, insulin resistance and weight gain. Not all symptoms may be present. PCOS can be treated; as of 2011, however, there is no cure.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon was used throughout the centuries as a spice and as a medicinal herb. It is the bark of the tree that provides the spice and contains volatile oils and phenolic compounds that give it its alleged medicinal properties. In Russia and the Far East, it is used to treat diabetes, the result of high glucose levels. As a weight loss aid, there is little evidence that cinnamon is effective unless you have increased blood glucose levels as in PCOS. A 2008 study in the professional journal "PPAR Research" states that cinnamon actively reduces high glucose levels by decreasing insulin resistance, a symptom of PCOS.
Insulin Resistance and PCOS
People with insulin resistance produce insulin, but their bodies do not utilize it effectively. This results in the need for more insulin for glucose to enter the cells to be used for energy. The excess glucose is stored as fat and may result in weight gain. Insulin resistance is common with individuals with PCOS and a predisposition for Type 2 diabetes.
Cinnamon and PCOS Weight Loss
Evidence suggests that cinnamon may promote blood glucose uptake. A paper in the December 2003 edition of “Diabetes Care” studied 60 individuals over the course of 40 days. Half of them were given 1, 3 or 6 grams of cinnamon and the other half a placebo. At the end of the study, results showed that those taking cinnamon had reduced blood glucose levels. By normalizing insulin sensitivity, glucose uptake is increased, less glucose is stored as fat and weight loss may occur. Consult with your doctor before using cinnamon or any other supplement for managing your weight.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Obesity
- The Ultimate PCOS Handbook; Collette Harris, et al.; 2008 (CE page 158)
- Verity: What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome(PCOS)? (CE..see What is PCOS and symptoms)
- “Diabetes Care”; Cinnamon Improves Glucose and Lipids of People With Type 2 Diabetes; Alam Khan, et al.; December 2003
- "PPAR Research"; Improved Insulin Resistance and Lipid Metabolism by Cinnamon Extract through Activation of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors; Xiaoyan Sheng, et al.; September 2008
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