Cinnamon seems to lower blood glucose, triglycerides, and LDL cholesterol in patients with type 2 diabetes. Cinnamon may increase insulin sensitivity, which improves the utilization of carbohydrates and fats. In a study, doses ranged from 1 to 6 grams per day of Cinnamomum cassia or Chinese cinnamon. Cinnamon use decreased serum glucose levels from 18% to 29% after 40 days of therapy, and serum cholesterol levels were decreased 13% to 26%. Those who took the highest dose showed a faster response. The amount of cinnamon found to be useful in the study averaged about one-half teaspoonful per day, which can be sprinkled on cereal, coffee, or other foods. However, commercially available cinnamon spices and cinnamon products marketed online often contain a combination of different types of cinnamon, so be certain you use only Chinese cinnamon (cassia). Those who use cinnamon in this manner must monitor blood glucose and should notify their physicians as doses of medications or insulin may require adjustment.
Cinnamon to Lower Blood Glucose and Cholesterol
