Can Cinnamon Lower Blood Sugar

Whether cinnamon can lower blood sugar is a HOT topic of debate-but now there's recent research suggesting that this common household spice may be helpful as a supplement to regular diabetes treatment in people with type 2 diabetes. A 20212 review of several recent studies concluded that the use of cinnamon had a potentially beneficial effect on glycemic control. One published study found that a 500 mg capsule of cinnamon taken 2 days daily for 90 days improved hemoglobin A1C levels-a reflection of average blood sugar level for the past 2 to 3 months-in people with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes (hemoglobin A1C levels greater than 7%). More research is needed to confirm these findings & determine how cinnamon supplementation leads to these benefits. One theory is that cinnamon increases insulin action. Dr. M. Regina Castro out at the Mayo Clinic says, "If you have diabetes, remember that treatment is a lifelong commitment of blood sugar monitoring, healthy eating, regular exercise & sometimes, diabetes medications or insulin therapy." Dr. Castro says to consult your doc if you have questions or concerns about your diabetes treatment plan. The "Mayo Clinic Radio Health Minute" is heard weeknights during our Action Packed 5 O'Clock News Hour on KSEN AM 1150.