Cinnamon is likely in every household across the country, but mostly for its depth of flavor and nostalgic aroma.
But did you know that cinnamon is also a spice that can help diabetics control their glucose a bit better?
Here are five reasons why cinnamon is a great spice for diabetics.
#1 Cinnamon Lowers Glucose Levels
A meta-analysis published in Annals of Family Medicine reviewed 10 different studies about cinnamon supplementation. The analysis showed that all 10 studies provided enough evidence, collectively, to show that cinnamon significantly reduces glucose levels in those who consume it during mealtime.
Other studies looked more closely at the cinnamon and glucose relationship. One study revealed that participants who took cinnamon along with regular diabetes medication showed an even greater reduction in blood glucose.
#2 Cinnamon May Boost the Effects of Insulin
Type 2 diabetes is due to major insulin resistance to the point that glucose saturates the blood at dangerous levels. Some studies are beginning to find that cinnamon may help boost insulin sensitivity in patients with type 2 diabetes.
The bioflavonoid in cinnamon, proanthocyanidin, may alter insulin signaling in fat cells, thus potentially increasing insulin effectiveness. More research is required since the studies yielded mixed results. As it stands, now, cinnamon likely has an impact on insulin resistance.
#3 Cinnamon Slows Digestion
Normally, a fast metabolism would be an enviable trait, but in the case of diabetics, it can be quite annoying. Cinnamon helps take care of this by slowing down the digestion process. A slower digestion is helpful in preventing a spike in blood sugar after eating.
#4 Cinnamon is Rich in Polyphenols
A type of antioxidant found in cinnamon, polyphenols, help boost glucose uptake in diabetics, thus helping the body maintain healthy blood glucose levels throughout the day. This antioxidant also helps stimulate the release of insulin to better process the glucose that does make it to the blood.
#5 Cinnamon Lowers Cholesterol
Research has shown that only half a teaspoon is needed to not only lower blood glucose levels but to also triglycerides and LDL (bad) cholesterol.
High cholesterol often goes hand in hand with a type 2 diabetes diagnosis because both are direct results of a poor diet and lack of exercise. If you have type 2 diabetes, you likely have high cholesterol. A half a teaspoon of cinnamon a day can help with both issues.
Now we have more of an excuse than ever to sprinkle cinnamon into our meals. Whether you are adding a dash to your coffee or sneaking it into your sweet potatoes, you are helping your body regain its health. Try incorporating it into your diet to have better resting glucose levels and cholesterol!
[expand title=”References“]
Diabetes Wellbeing. URL Link. Accessed March 28, 2017.
Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology. URL Link. Accessed March 28, 2017.
Nutrients. URL Link. Accessed March 28, 2017.
Huffington Post. URL Link. Accessed March 28, 2017.
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