Does cinnamon help control my blood sugar ?

Cinnamon has recently gained popularity for people with diabetes that want to control their blood sugar. There have been studies showing that cinnamon affects glucose metabolism and that it can improve blood glucose. However, can it be a replacement for medications?

The short answer is, maybe. Every person with diabetes has unique needs, metabolism and beta cell reserves (Beta cells are cells in the pancreas that produce insulin). Some individuals may be able to control their diabetes with changes in dietary patterns (including adding cinnamon), whereas others cannot because their pancreas is not producing sufficient insulin.

There is no harm in trying to see if it helps you. However, be very careful if you will consume cinnamon in a supplement form instead of its natural form

Different types of cinnamon

Did you know there are actually 2 kinds of cinnamon on the market?

Ceylon cinnamon is often considered “true” cinnamon while Cassia (Seigon) cinnamon is not. Most Cinnamon sold on the market is actually Cassia ! So, how do you know the difference? You need to read the food label. If there is no origin on the label, it is probably cassia. 

Why should you care? Cassia/Saigon cinnamon contains about 1,000 times more high coumarin than Ceylon cinnamon, a flavoring substance that can be toxic in high amounts. 

Bottom line is – enjoy your boiled Ceylon cinnamon sticks or add a teaspoon of Ceylon cinnamon to your coffee or your oatmeal for your metabolic boost, but don’t expect miracles ! Be mindful of excessive intake (usually via supplement form) as the high levels of coumarin found in cassia cinnamon can damage your liver.