- Blood Sugar Management: May lower fasting blood sugar: Several studies suggest cinnamon can help reduce fasting blood glucose levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes and prediabetes.
- May improve insulin sensitivity: Cinnamon might mimic the effects of insulin, helping to move sugar from the bloodstream into cells and potentially improving the body’s response to insulin.
- May lower blood sugar after meals: Some research indicates cinnamon can help slow down the rate at which food empties from the stomach, potentially reducing blood sugar spikes after eating.
- May reduce hemoglobin A1c: Some studies have found that cinnamon could slightly lower hemoglobin A1c, a marker of long-term blood sugar control.
- Heart Health: May help lower cholesterol: Some studies suggest cinnamon may help reduce total cholesterol and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels.
- May lower triglycerides: Cinnamon might contribute to lowering triglyceride levels in the blood.
- May lower blood pressure: Some research indicates that cinnamon supplementation could lead to a modest reduction in blood pressure.
- Antioxidant properties: Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect against oxidative stress, a factor in heart disease.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Cinnamon’s anti-inflammatory effects may also contribute to heart health.
- High in antioxidants: Cinnamon is packed with powerful antioxidants like polyphenols, which help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
- May reduce inflammation: Studies suggest that cinnamon and its compounds can help lower inflammation in the body.
- Antimicrobial properties: Cinnamon has demonstrated potential against certain bacteria and fungi.
- May improve brain function: Some research suggests cinnamon may improve cognitive function and memory.
- May have anticancer properties: Some studies indicate that compounds in cinnamon may have antitumor and anticancer effects, although more research is needed.
- May support gut health: Cinnamon may act as a prebiotic, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
- May aid in weight management: Some studies suggest cinnamon might help with weight loss by boosting metabolism and improving insulin sensitivity, but more research in humans is necessary.
IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS
- Type of Cinnamon: There are two main types: Cassia (common cinnamon) and Ceylon (“true” cinnamon). Cassia cinnamon contains higher levels of coumarin, which can be harmful in large doses. Ceylon cinnamon has very low levels of coumarin.
- Dosage: Most studies use doses ranging from 1 to 6 grams (about 0.5 to 2 teaspoons) of ground cinnamon per day.
Individual Responses: The effects of cinnamon can vary from person to person.