Effects of Cinnamon on Diabetes
07/14/2009 |
Question:
I am 78 and my fasting sugar is 106. There is some family history of diabetes II. Will taking cinnamon tablets help, and, if so, how many should I take?
Answer:
The evidence from controlled clinical trials on cinnamon in blood sugar control is limited and what evidence there is is mixed. On balance across a population the magnitude of effect if any is small however there can be substantial individual differences. There is relatively little risk to trying cinnamon alone – if used in conjunction with a clearly effective glucose lowering drug, there could theoretically be slightly more risk although still not much. It is always good advice to review current lifestyle (including diet, exercise) with a certified diabetes educator to figure out what the best first steps might be for non-drug interventions. The advice of a health care professional in deciding about blood sugar goals and the possible use of drugs to help lower blood sugar as well would be prudent also.
For more information:
Go to the Research Center health topic.