The Effect of Cinnamon Cassia Powder in Type 2 Diabetes

Cinnamon has been used as a spice and food additive for many years. According to Amy Campbell of Diabetes Self-Management, it has been used for medicinal purposes in ancient Egypt, China, India and other parts of the world. Recent studies have looked at whether it is useful in the treatment of type 2 diabetes.

Optimal Dosage

• A study led by Dr. Alan Khan had three different groups taking cinnamon, each of them at a different dosage. While there was no difference in the results while they were taking it, the beneficial results lasted the longest after ceasing the cinnamon supplement in the group taking one gram per day.

Blood Glucose Levels

• Khan measured fasting glucose levels when the study began, and then measured them again at the conclusion of the study 40 days later. The mean fasting blood glucose level was reduced in the cinnamon groups by 18 percent to 29 percent.

Other Blood Chemistry

• Khan observed that there were effects on blood chemistry that extended beyond reduced blood glucose levels. He noted that there were reductions in triglycerides, LDL cholesterol and overall cholesterol levels in the groups taking cinnamon.

Dissenting Evidence

• A second study, led by Dr. William L. Baker, looked at a series of studies that had utilized cinnamon and reported blood glucose results. There was no significant difference between the cinnamon and placebo groups.

Safety Concerns

• According to Campbell, some people are reported as having an allergy to cinnamon. In large doses, it can cause the skin to burn and sores to develop in the mouth. Otherwise, it is generally considered safe.