|
|
Fern's Nutrition
|
|
|
This Month's Topic |
Cinnamon, the well-known herbal spice has recently been shown to have a positive effect on high blood sugar levels. It is important to maintain healthy blood sugar levels through proper diet, exercise, and weight management. In Type 2 Diabetes, or adult-onset Diabetes, sugar builds up in the blood, creating health-threatening symptoms. Fat, muscle, and liver tissue all need to absorb glucose from the bloodstream for energy production.
Several recent double-blind studies indicate that cinnamon contains polyphenols that are able to make insulin work more effectively. This could benefit the millions of people with high blood sugar levels. It appears to do this by activating insulin and glucose transport and improving glucose metabolism.
A study of 60 middle-aged people with non-insulin-dependent Type 2 Diabetes were given capsules containing cinnamon. All the subjects taking cinnamon capsules experienced significant drops in blood sugar - 18 to 29%. Optional results were seen at the three gram level (3,000 mg. daily). (K Han et al. 2003).
Cinnamon also dropped blood levels of harmful LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. In addition, all the benefits seen in the study lasted up to 20 days after the cinnamon capsules were stopped.
The use of cinnamon and any other dietary supplement to maintain proper blood sugar levels should be coordinated with improving dietary habits and proper exercise programs. Those who are insulin-dependent should only use dietary supplements under the care of a physician so that blood glucose levels can be monitored.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat a particular illnesses. Always seek medical advise from a health professional when needed.
Email for shipping charges to Alaska, Hawaii, or outside the U.S.
