(07-12-11) This Common Spice Helps Regulate Blood Sugar

by Victor Marchione, MD

Cinnamon has been in the spotlight for some time now for its potential
abilities as a natural diabetes cure. But should this tasty spice, used in
cakes, cookies and pies, be considered a food for diabetics? Certainly cinnamon
has been shown to have some effect on glucose levels, but how significant is
this anti-diabetic action?

Researchers at the University of Melbourne recently tried to answer this
question by reviewing a wide range of clinical trials pertaining to cinnamon
and glucose control. They noted that alternative cures for diabetes are needed.
Obesity levels have been rising steadily over the past five decades and are
predicted to continue rising. This trend has resulted in skyrocketing diabetes
rates.

The researchers investigated results for clinical trials involving cinnamon
and its effects on insulin resistance. Evidence showed that cinnamon has a
potentially significant role to play in diabetes prevention. It seems that
cinnamon improves insulin resistance by preventing and actually reversing
insulin signaling in skeletal muscle.

The researchers also found that cinnamon increases the expression of
peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors, which play an essential role in
regulating your metabolism. Cinnamon's most impressive and consistent action
against diabetes was its ability to improve fasting glucose levels.

Along with offering benefits in the control and prevention of diabetes,
cinnamon was found to be anti-inflammatory and may help to improve cholesterol
levels and blood pressure. The researchers concluded by saying that it might be
jumping the gun to suggest that cinnamon be used as a supplement to treat
diabetes. However, its positive effects on glucose control are undeniable.

Other natural remedies for diabetes prevention include maintaining a healthy
weight, exercising regularly, and eating foods low on the glycemic index (GI).
Certain foods that you may not be aware of will actually spike your insulin
levels. Macaroni and cheese, white rice, and even a simple baked potato are all
high on the GI list.

Source: Rafehi, H., et al., "Controversies surrounding the clinical potential of
cinnamon for the management of diabetes," Diabetes Obes. Metab., Nov. 16, 2011

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