Spice up your life with Cinnamon!

Cinnamon is an ancient spice that have been used medicinally in Chinese medicine for numerous years, however in recent years western society have found research on the benefits of this spice, especially in regards to cardiovascular health and helping control the blood sugar levels in type II diabetes mellitus.

Both cardiovascular and type II diabetes mellitus are multifactorial, diet defines both of these disease and a change of diet can be shown to help reduce the risk or severity of these diseases.

Cinnamon has been shown to promote insulin-enhancing activities, this botanical product have been shown to improve glucose metabolism and the overall condition of individuals with diabetes. It has been shown to help hypoglycemic effects, which is a problem with people suffering from diabetes and it has also been shown to help lipid metabolism.

Cinnamon has been shown to not only help control glucose levels by increasing insulin sensitivity but it has been shown to help protect against cardiovascular disease by helping decreasing cholesterol levels (LDL, triglycerides and total cholesterol levels).

Dosage?

To receive the beneficial effects of cinnamon, have 1 gram to 6 grams per day to enhance its therapeutic benefits.

For people who do not suffer from type II diabetes mellitus or cardiovascular disease, increasing cinnamon into your diet will help to control your blood sugar levels and blood lipid levels.

Cinnamon can be increased in the diet by simply adding it to yoghurt, sprinkling it on porridge, have it on toast or adding it to cooking.

Try some today!

Written By Nutritionist Katie Maycock

References:

Khan A., Safda M., Khan M.M.A., Khattak K.N., Anderson A. A, (2003), Cinnamon improves glucose and lipids of people with type II diabetes, Diabetes care, vol. 26, num. 12, pp 3215- 3218