Sprinkle It On For Better Blood Sugar Control

Isn’t it nice when something that tastes good and smells good is also good for you?   Researchers think that cinnamon might be in that category.   A few sprinkles a day on your breakfast cereal or toast may help you fight elevated blood sugar and – as an additional benefit – you may be able to reduce cholesterol and triglycerides as well.

A study of 60 individuals with Type 2 diabetes – 30 men and 30 women between ages 45 and 59 were divided into random groups. Three groups were given varying amounts of cinnamon (1 gram, 3 grams or 6 grams) to consume each day for 40 days. The other groups received placebos. After 40 days those who had been eating cinnamon as part of their diet showed reductions in their blood sugar count, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol and overall cholesterol.   They didn’t show a significant change in their HDL cholesterol levels. Those who got the placebo – well, their blood markers just didn’t show any significant changes. 

This was a small study and more research will be needed before doctors start recommending cinnamon as a diabetes treatment. One reason is that researchers just don’t know why cinnamon helps lower blood sugar and cholesterol.   But this study suggests that an active component of cinnamon can positively affect blood sugar readings and blood lipids. As with any dietary change, talk it over with your doctor.

How do you add cinnamon to your diet without indulging in something like a big, gooey, high fat, high sugar cinnamon roll? In addition to sprinkling it on cereal or toast, try making cinnamon tea – cinnamon sticks make a nice clear tea. You can also add it to orange juice, coffee before you brew it, salads and meats.   Use your creativity and you’ll find lots of ways to increase your cinnamon intake. Healthy eating has never tasted or smelled better.

Improving what you eat is a critical way to improve your blood sugar count, as is good dental hygiene. Follow this link to talk with your local DentistryForDiabetics^SM dentist about routine dental therapy that can help reduce blood sugar.