By Dr. Rick Tague
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a spice made from the bark of evergreen trees native to Sri Lanka. Recent research is now supporting the regular use of cinnamon to promote heathy glucose metabolism. Cinnamon appears to work by activating insulin receptor kinase, thus acting as an insulin sensitizer and lowering blood sugar. Studies show that supplementation with cinnamon capsules has been reported useful for reducing serum glucose, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and total cholesterol in people with Type 2 diabetes. It has been shown to reduce the mean fasting serum glucose by 18-29%, triglyceride levels from 23-30% and LDL from 7-27%.
The most common cinnamon in North America is known as Cassia cinnamon which is not recommended for lowering blood sugar or for weight loss. True cinnamon, also known as Cinnamonum verum (or Ceylon Cinnamon) is useful for reducing serum glucose, which is why you should purchase your cinnamon from a trusted source like our Nutrition Store.
People with diabetes, hypoglycemia, or who are pregnant or lactating should consult with their health practitioner before using Cinnamon. Also, anyone currently taking drugs to control blood sugars should notify their Physician before using this product. Although safe, medical monitoring is recommended.
Nutritional Resources
True Cinnamon
