Chances are you have a bottle of cinnamon in your spice cupboard. And chances are you never thought of cinnamon as medicine.
However, cinnamon has been used medicinally since ancient times. This popular spice was used in ancient Egypt, China, and India for culinary and medicinal purposes, and its use has also been documented in the Bible.
There are two types of cinnamon: Ceylon and cassia, both derived from the bark of evergreen trees. Ceylon cinnamon is grown in South America, Southeast Asia, and the West Indies, while cassia cinnamon is grown in Central America, China, and Indonesia. Ceylon cinnamon bark looks like tightly rolled scrolls, while cassia cinnamon is more loosely rolled. Cassia is the variety most commonly sold in the United States.
Most people think of cinnamon as a flavoring for desserts or as a warm, robust scent for candles and potpourri. But this spice may do more than make your house smell good. Cinnamon has been shown to help lower blood glucose levels in people with Type 2 diabetes.
A study published in the journal Diabetes Care in 2003 looked at 60 men and women with Type 2 diabetes who were taking diabetes pills. The participants took either 1, 3, or 6 grams of cassia cinnamon or a placebo, in capsule form, for 40 days. After this time, blood glucose levels dropped between 18% and 29% in all three groups that received cinnamon. However, only the participants who had taken the smallest amount of cinnamon (1 gram) continued to have improved blood glucose levels 20 days after they stopped taking it, for reasons the researchers didn’t quite understand.
In the study, cinnamon also helped lower triglycerides (a blood lipid) and LDL (or “bad”) cholesterol levels. The benefits continued after 60 days, 20 days after participants had stopped taking cinnamon.
No significant changes in blood glucose or blood lipid levels occurred in the placebo group.
So, should you start shaking cinnamon on everything or start popping cinnamon capsules? First, keep in mind that this was a small study with only 60 subjects. Second, it was a short-term study, and the effects of taking cinnamon on a long-term basis aren’t known. Third, there’s no evidence that cinnamon helps people with Type 1 diabetes.
On the other hand, cinnamon is relatively safe. Keep in mind, though, that, some people may be allergic to cinnamon, and that cinnamon in large amounts may cause mouth sores or burn the skin. Also, as with any kind of supplement, it’s important to discuss its use with your health-care provider.
One gram of cinnamon, the lowest (and most effective) amount used in the study, is about ⅕ teaspoon. Three grams is about ½ teaspoon, and 6 grams is a little more than a teaspoon. If, after checking with your health-care provider, you want to see for yourself if cinnamon might help improve your blood glucose levels, start with the smallest dose (1 gram). Be sure to check your blood glucose levels often and keep good food and blood glucose records. Then, try sprinkling cinnamon on cereal and toast, or in your coffee, tea, or cocoa, spread out over the day. Another option is to take cassia cinnamon in capsule form, taking 500 milligrams twice daily. Just remember that cinnamon supplements, like all supplements, are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in terms of quality and effectiveness.
Stop using cinnamon immediately and call your health-care provider if you notice any side effects. If you don’t notice any improvement in your diabetes control after several weeks, don’t despair. You can still enjoy the rich, warm flavor of this ancient spice.
I am very thabkful for this information. I shall start taking little of Chinnamon barks evry day . I shall also test my fasting blood glucose level after start taking the chinnamon bark. If it really reduces the fasting blood glucose level I shall continue.
Posted by gvrao28 | Oct 11, 2006 at 7:27 pmI started use cinnamon on oatmeal every morning, for over a year now. It works within a month I noticed my sugar tested lower. I told my Doctor and he was very surprised. My next appointment, which was 6 months after starting the cinnamon, my Dr. had to lower my Glyburide from 2 pills a day to 1/2 a pill twice a day, then to 1/2 a pill once a day with dinner. My cholesterol levels are better also. I just bought some cinnamon capsules, so I have them if I need them, maybe when traveling. I missed one day in over a year. I am very Pleased! It works! Granny
Posted by Granny | Oct 12, 2006 at 12:48 pmHi Granny and gvra28
Granny, I’m glad to hear that cinnamon is working for you! And gvra28, I hope it works as well for you as it has for Granny. Don’t forget to let your doctor know that you’re taking it.
Amy Campbell
Posted by acampbell | Oct 15, 2006 at 2:15 pmAmy, I’m confused. I’ve read several articles about this same study regarding cinnamon, and I want to be sure I get it straight as to the dose I should try. You suggested trying 500 mg of cinnamon twice a day, but other articles I’ve read claim that people using 6 grams a day lowered their blood sugar substantially in as little as 20 days. Do you know anything about the 6 grams per day giving the fastest (if not the longest lasting) benefit? Thanks in advance for any light you can shed on this.
Posted by Pootsie | Jan 11, 2007 at 12:35 pmHi Pootsie,
You raise a good question, and it’s understandable why you’re confused. The information you’re referencing is partly related to one study in particular that used various levels of cinnamon. The researchers found that the 6-gram dose of cinnamon lowered glucose levels more than the other doses did, and in a shorter amount of time. The issue, though, is that no one is really sure what the lowest, most effective dose of cinnamon is. And when it comes to medications and supplements, you always want to take the lowest dose possible that will still yield beneficial results. While cinnamon is relatively safe, some people may be allergic. If you’re planning on trying cinnamon, first let your physician know. The key is to start with a low dose, and increase gradually, if you need to. As the saying goes, “Start low, go slow”.
Posted by acampbell | Jan 12, 2007 at 1:02 pmwhat are the side affects
Posted by justme | Apr 14, 2007 at 8:17 pmI started taking Cinnamon capsules about 4 months ago because of my high cholesterol. The doctor wanted to put me on some type of medecine and im the type of person that would rather treat something with a natural remedy rather than take a perscreption drug. Before I started taking Cinnamon my Cholesterol level was 245 and now it is at a borderline level of 230. The longer I take the cinnamon the better my cholesterol gets. You can find cinnamon almost everywhere but I order mine through a company called Health Quest Technologies. They put me on a program where I get my cinnamon automatically charged to my credit card every two months and they send me out one bottle which last me two months!
Posted by ashleyjones | Jul 09, 2007 at 11:04 amI just started taking Cinnamon capsules about a week ago and have noticed that I am having mild hot flashes all during the day and night. Has anyone else experienced a problem like this.
Posted by sandyh | Nov 27, 2007 at 7:44 pmHi Sandy,
While cinnamon is a relatively safe herb, there are some reported side effects, including contact dermatitis, mouth lesions, skin rash, and facial flushing. It’s therefore quite possible that you’re experiencing a reaction to the cinnamon. I’d suggest you stop taking them for a few days and see if your hot flashes disappear. If it looks like they’re linked, you might either need to stop the cinnamon altogether or decrease your dose. You can also put up with the hot flashes unless they’re particularly bothersome. Also, if the cinnamon doesn’t appear to be helping your blood glucose control, there may be no benefit in continuing to take it.
Posted by acampbell | Nov 29, 2007 at 9:19 amWhy cinnamon works on my husband aand not on my diabetes type 2. Is it because he takes medication and I don,t yet.
Posted by GSharat @aol.com | Dec 10, 2007 at 8:30 amGladys Sharat
Hi Gladys,
Your situation illustrates a very important point about supplements - they may work for some and not for others. There are probably several reasons why cinnamon may not be working as well for you as it does for your husband, including your average blood glucose levels, how long you’ve been taking cinnamon and how much you’ve been taking, and the fact that he takes medicine for his diabetes, while you don’t. How have your blood glucose levels been running? If they’re running too high, cinnamon may not do much to lower them. Also, one study has concluded that cinnamon isn’t effective for reducing insulin resistance and blood glucose levels in postmenopausal women. So, as the saying goes, “more research is needed”. Talk with your doctor about whether you should continue taking cinnamon or not.
Posted by acampbell | Dec 10, 2007 at 2:51 pmHi! I found out I am a borderline type 2 diabetic a few months ago. So I am still experimenting with what foods spike my glucose levels. When I eat something that makes my sugar go way up…I mix about 3/4 of a teaspoon of cinnamon with just a sprinkle of Splenda and a tiny dab of margarine (it makes it go down way easier). Follow it with a glass of water. Within 15 minutes to a half an hour…my glucose level drops way down. Bought the pills today and am going to give them a try. Thank you for the posts…I was a little leary of taking the pills.
Posted by breezinthru52 | Dec 24, 2007 at 10:53 pmIs it safe to take cinnamon capsules when pregnant?
Posted by Diane | Feb 05, 2008 at 6:46 amHi Diane,
No, it’s not recommended that pregnant women take cinnamon as a supplement. Also, if you take any other dietary or herbal supplements, be sure to let your provider know.
Posted by acampbell | Feb 05, 2008 at 1:30 pmI have used this supplement and my glucose level drop over 20 points. So, it you are concerned about your sugar levels then please go for the cinnamon pills! They are fantastic!
Posted by Phyllis | Mar 09, 2008 at 1:45 amI have been reading that some cinnamon could contain “coumarin” and that it could be toxic to the liver. Would it be found in cinnamon pills? Which types of cinnamon would it be found in>
Posted by linda | Mar 22, 2008 at 5:45 pmHi linda,
Posted by acampbell | Mar 24, 2008 at 11:22 amA type of cinnamon, called cassia cinnamon, may contain varying amounts of coumarin, a compound that may cause liver damage in high doses, at least according to animal studies. If you take a supplement, try to find one that lists “water soluble” cinnamon on the label. And don’t take very large doses for an extended period of time. Also, this is a good example of why you should always discuss the use of any supplement with your provider.
Hi,
Posted by abi | Apr 30, 2008 at 6:22 pmI have benn drinking this cinnamon honey tea for past two days(one time). i feel very tired after drinking this tea and also sweating. I had gestational diabeties 2 years back and i was fine after i had baby. I haven’t check my sugsr lavel recently. my question is is it ok to drink the tea, bcz i really need to lose some weight. i would really appreciate if someone reply me back. thanks in advance.
Hi abi,
Posted by acampbell | May 01, 2008 at 2:40 pmWhat are the ingredients in your tea besides cinnamon and honey? Is this sold as a “weight loss” tea? Some weight loss teas have herbs or other ingredients that can cause side effects. I’d suggest stopping the tea for a while and see if you feel better. Also, you might start checking your blood glucose levels again. And if you continue to have symptoms, it’s a good idea to speak to your provider.
Thanks for your reply acambell. I am taking cinnamon pills now. I take one in the morning and 1 at night, is it ok take it bcz i read your post about the coumarin and i am confused. I would really appreciate if you reply me back. thankyou.
Posted by abi | May 13, 2008 at 1:48 pmHi abi,
Posted by acampbell | May 13, 2008 at 3:13 pmIt’s hard to say without knowing what type and what amount of cinnamon you’re taking. Make sure you’ve purchased your supplement from a reputable source. And be sure to follow the dosing instructions on the bottle. If you’re still unsure, ask your physician, pharmacist or dietitian.
Thanks again Acambell, i am taking 500mg twice a day and it is a spring valley cinnamon capsules. Could you pls tell me how could i find if this capsules contains coumarin or not. The instructions says 2 a day. I bought it from walmart. I want to know if i can take (cinnamon+ honey +hotwater )tea with food, bcz i can’t take this tea first think in the morning it makes me sick. I really want to take this tea for weight loss.thanks
Posted by abi | May 15, 2008 at 9:48 amHi abi,
Posted by acampbell | May 18, 2008 at 4:44 pmI suggest you contact the company that manufactures the supplement, Spring Hill. You can ask them if the cinnamon they use is water soluble. Chances are that the dose you’re taking is pretty safe; just don’t take more than what is recommended.
Five members of our diabetes support group have used cinnamon capsules for the past 6 month…with NO positive results. Recent studies have generally shown it does not work. However, today my wife’s cardiologist said it DOES work (as shown in yet another study) but you must use Ceylon Cinnamon, not the cheaper cinnamon in most supplements.
Posted by ikeone | Jun 02, 2008 at 8:44 pmI might try this for six months. The cardiologist said the dose should be one teaspoon after lunch and the same amount after dinner. Good luck.
Really cinnamon is very useful herb. Everybody should involve in his/her diet and can be used in various disease Rekha
Posted by Rekha | Jun 26, 2008 at 4:12 pmHi,
Posted by pcammar50 | Jul 04, 2008 at 5:11 pmI take Hyzaar 100/25 pressure pill. One a day.
My Ldl was high. Under 300.
I did not want to take the prescription meds for that.
Can I take cinnamon being on Hyzaar.
I also looked into taking Kyolic…garlic capsule and was told by the pharmacy not to take it.
So I’d like to know what to do.
My Doctor is not really knowledgeble about this matter.
Please help!
Paula
Hi pcammar50,
Posted by acampbell | Jul 07, 2008 at 1:05 pmI can’t really give you advice on which supplements to take or not to take. However, as far as garlic goes, this supplement is relatively safe, although it shouldn’t be taken if you take any blood thinning medicines. Garlic may not lower your LDL cholesterol all that much, according to recent research. Cinnamon is also fairly safe to take, but there’s no conclusive evidence that it helps to lower cholesterol. I’d suggest you meet with a dietitian to discuss lifestyle changes that you can make. Ask a dietitian and your doctor about possibly using a plant stanol supplement. If your LDL is as high as you indicate, though, you may need to take medicine. And always remember to tell your doctor about any supplements that you take.
Please advise for gestation diabetics is it safe to use Cinnamon on a daily basis.
Posted by KJ | Jul 10, 2008 at 11:28 pmWith thanks
KJ
Hi KJ,
See my comment from Feb. 5, above. Cinnamon isn’t recommended for use during pregnancy.
Posted by acampbell | Jul 11, 2008 at 5:32 pmI can not get my sugar reading down below 242. I take 2 metformin a day. Can I take 3 a day? I need help quickly. I am seeing a Dr. every 3 months. But he’s really no help.
Posted by linda c | Jul 20, 2008 at 11:34 amHi Linda,
Posted by acampbell | Jul 21, 2008 at 1:05 pmAre you following a meal plan and getting physical activity? I wouldn’t recommend increasing your metformin dose without talking with your doctor. My advice is to start checking your blood glucose levels several times a day and recording your results in a log book. At your next appointment with your doctor, show him the results. Ask him what your A1C is (goal is less than 7), too. Be firm and let him know that you’re not happy with your numbers, as they are out of target range. Ask him what your options are, in terms of medication, whether it’s increasing your metformin or adding another medication. If he won’t help you, consider switching providers, if you need to. This is your diabetes and your health, so you need to be your own advocate. Good luck!
HI: im shahana,I like to ask how you make your cinamon ,hony tea
Posted by shahana | Jul 29, 2008 at 12:59 pmIn reading the above, I see that in some cases cinnamon helps type 2 and pre-diabetics with their blood glucose. I am working on not becoming pre-diabetic.
Question 1: I take 1000 mg (2 capsules total) each morning. Is it better to take one in the AM and the second one in the PM?
Question 2: I also read that people experience “hot flashes”. I’ve been taking the cinnamon pills for about 3 months, and just recently noticed feeling extra warm and sweaty during the day, and wonder if splitting the two pills into AM and PM doses would help offset this hot feeling but keep with helping the blood glucose?
Question 3: Is there anything connecting cinnamon with the increasing or decreasing high blood pressure.
Question 4: Is there anything connecting cinnamon with the increasing or decreasing heart rate or heart beats?
Thank you!
Posted by fredsmom | Aug 21, 2008 at 10:42 pmHi fredsmom,
There isn’t a lot of information available as to the best dose of cinnamon to take, and studies that have been done with cinnamon have been inconsistent. However, cinnamon is a fairly safe supplement, unless you happen to be allergic. To answer your questions, I’m not sure if it matters that you split the dose; but, if you do experience flushing, you might try taking one capsule in the am and one in the pm. Cinnamon may lower blood pressure levels, although I’ve read that it may increase heart rate. If you do experience increased heart rate and flushing, you might try decreasing your dose. Make sure you let your provider know that you’re taking cinnamon, as well.
Posted by acampbell | Aug 25, 2008 at 9:04 amWhy isn’t Cinnamon good for Pregnancy. Untold by doctors I was borderline diabetic - insulin resistant in Nov 07. I am now 3mo pregnant and of course have gestational diabetes. In addition my blood pressure has been running 140/100.
I would like to take some type of supplement and cinnamon was recommended by a friend.
If the only reason not to take it is that it might decrease my sugars too much, then wouldn’t I be able to monitor that with my meter - which I have to use at least 7x/day anyway.
As for it possibly increasing the heart rate - is that in any way related to my blood pressure being so high?
Cinnamon itself wouldn’t cause any harm to the fetus would it?
Yes, I know not much info is know, but I can tell you the docs in MO are not into herbal remedies, they are all AMA well trained :-)
Posted by aziemer | Aug 25, 2008 at 9:03 pmThanks
Hi aziemer,
Posted by acampbell | Aug 26, 2008 at 1:24 pmThe issue with cinnamon use during pregnancy has to do with lack of sufficient data to prove that it’s safe, and not due to its potential glucose-lowering effects. The Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, which is a professional database of supplements, as well as the PDR for Herbal Medicine advise against using cinnamon during pregnancy and breastfeeding. In fact, the PDR for Herbal Medicines states that cinnamon is used in Chinese medicine to treat amenorrhea (lack of menstruation). It’s unfortunate that we don’t know enough about cinnamon, but as the saying goes, it’s better to be safe than sorry. It’s fine to use cinnamon as a flavoring in foods, but most medical practitioners would advise against taking it as a supplement during pregnancy.
I used cinnamon sticks when I was quitting smoking. I used them to replace thehabit of holding something. In time I notice I was having low blood sugar attacks. I didn’t even know that cinnamon could lower your blood sugar until I googled it. So there is something to it. Karen
Posted by karen | Sep 16, 2008 at 8:56 amYou should never take large doses of what is called “cinnamon” or “saigon cinnamon” in this country, as these are really “cassia” (a cousin of “real cinnamon”), which is toxic in large doses. The only 2 ways to avoid this: (i) Purchase
Posted by d.wayne | Oct 05, 2008 at 2:27 pm“real cinnamon” or “Ceylon cinnamon”, directly from Sri Lanka (from companies such as Dru Era), or (ii) purchase water soluble cinnamon pills (the toxic part of cinnamon is not water soluble) under the generic name of Cinnulin PF (various manufacturers).
Actually, the key studies involving the use of cinnamon on blood glucose and blood lipid levels have used cassia cinnamon, and not Ceylon cinnamon (although Ceylon cinnamon is more commonly used in the U.S.). However, Ceylon cinnamon does contain an ingredient also thought to lower glucose levels; it just hasn’t been as widely studied. I agree that it’s best to purchase water soluble or water extracted forms of cinnamon to limit exposure to any toxins.
Posted by acampbell | Oct 06, 2008 at 4:31 pmMy cholesterol level is a little high and I have type 2 diabetes. My liver levels are also a little elevated. Would taking the Cinnamon Capsules for the Cholesterol and diabetes effect the liver levels? I prefer trying something natural like this instead of prescription medication.
Posted by Stressed | Dec 05, 2008 at 10:54 amHi Stressed,
Posted by acampbell | Dec 05, 2008 at 1:31 pmIt’s probably not a good idea to start taking cinnamon or any supplement, for that matter, without first checking with your physician, due to your elevated liver enzymes. Just because something is “natural” doesn’t necessarily mean that it can’t cause harm in some situations. In the meantime, focus on other dietary changes that you can make that can help lower your cholesterol. For example, using olive or canola oil, eating more high-soluble fiber foods (oatmeal, beans, fruits, vegetables), switching to more poultry and fish instead of red meat, and using a margarine-like spread such as Benecol or Promise activ are ways to safely lower your cholesterol. Talk to your provider about possibly taking a plant stanol/sterol supplement (instead of cinnamon), as well, as this might be safer for you. But get his/her okay, first!
About a year ago my doctor tested my blood and found a glucose level of 365! Yes, it was type 2 diabetes. I was prescribed glucovance to reduce the insulin intolerance problem and eventually my levels returned to normal (around 100). About the same time, a friend of mine suggested a cinnamon/spice tea. I started drinking a cup a day and found my levels dropped to 65. Eventually I cut the glucovance dosage by half and remained stable. A few weeks ago I was on vacation and did not have time for my favorite tea. I checked my glucose levels and they started creeping up to 70, 80, 100. After returning to 2 cups a day of the cinnamon/spice tea, it was back to 76! I never would have thought it would make this much of a difference. For anyone interested, the tea is called Good Earth Original. It tastes like a big stick of Big Red gum, what a wonderful way to bring down my glucose.
Posted by Brett | Dec 15, 2008 at 8:33 pmHi. I’m 28 and was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes at 14 years old. I fell off the wagon for several years due to being young and dumb and as I got older had more and more trouble controlling my blood sugar levels. I literally could go all day without food, but with taking my medication, and my sugar would still read 250 or higher. I started taking 1 gram of cinnamon per day (in capsule form with chromium), and within 1 week my fasting sugar level is between 87 and 120, and my after meal sugar is no higher than 155. Thanks so much for posting this very helpful information. It changed my life!
Posted by misskrisscat3 | Dec 16, 2008 at 9:26 amKristen D.
The below link will help you to identify real Cinnamon from Cassia.
How to identify Ceylon Cinnamon
Ceylon Cinnamon is coumarin safe as it has 1250 times less coumarin than Casssia.
Posted by Pat Cater | Jan 18, 2009 at 3:36 pmHI MY NAME IS RIGOBERTO IM 37 YEARS OLD, I JUST GOT DIAGNOSED WITH DIABETES 2. I STARTED TAKING METFORMIN 500MG 1 TABLET A DAY FOR THE FIRST TWO WEEK, THEN TWICE A DAY. I MONITOR MY SUGAR EVERY MORNING BEFORE BREAKFAST AND BEFORE DINNER, AN MY SUGAR LEVES STAY BETWEEN 116 AND 142. I HAVE NO MUCH INFO ABOUT DIABETES AM I CONSIDER TO HAVE IT.?? MY A1C WAS 6.4 FOUR MONTHS AGO. WHAT OTHER TEST SHOULD I GET TO MAKE SURE?
Posted by RIGO 1972 | Feb 14, 2009 at 9:20 pmHi Rigo,
Posted by acampbell | Feb 18, 2009 at 2:23 pmDiabetes can be diagnosed in a few different ways. All of these need to be done at your doctor’s office or at a lab. The first way is to have your blood checked for glucose after not eating anything for at least 8 hours (usually overnight). Diabetes is diagnosed if your glucose is 126 or higher. The second way is to have a glucose checked at any time of day - if your glucose is 200 or higher and you have symptoms of high blood glucose (thirst, increased urination), then you likely have diabetes. The third way is to drink a glucose drink and then have your glucose checked 2 hours later. If the glucose is 200 or higher, you likely have diabetes. All of these tests should be repeated a second time to confirm diabetes. Ask your doctor how he or she diagnosed your diabetes. And it’s important to note that you can have glucose and A1C levels within “normal” range and still have diabetes. It just means that your treatment plan is working!
Hi,
I’ve read all the comments above and I was wondering if anyone out there can help me with stores or websites where I can buy cinnamon pills. I’d rather take it in pill or tea form.
Thanks
Posted by vreyes | Feb 25, 2009 at 1:00 pmVic
Hi Vic,
You can actually purchase cinnamon capsules at your local drugstore or a local GNC store. Also, try http://www.puritan.com or http://www.gnc.com if you’d like to purchase them on-line. For cinnaomon tea, try a local health food store.
Posted by acampbell | Feb 27, 2009 at 9:39 amCould you tell me if these cinnamon capsules could be purchased at a Walmart. I am a Diabete 2 as well.
Thanks again
Posted by vicki | Mar 07, 2009 at 11:43 pmVicki
Hi vicki,
Yes, I’m pretty certain that WalMart carries cinnamon capsules.
Posted by acampbell | Mar 09, 2009 at 12:00 pmIs there a benefit in taking cinnamon in powder form?
Posted by Anette | Apr 04, 2009 at 3:44 pmHi Anette,
Posted by acampbell | Apr 06, 2009 at 1:36 pmCinnamon can be ingested in powder form which is usually the form in which you purchase this spice. In other words, you can sprinkle powdered cinnamon from your spice jar onto various foods. Cinnamon can also be taken in capsule form, in liquid form (as an oil) or as a tea. The study that I mentioned in my blog, above, used cinnamon in the form of a capsule. You very likely would receive the same benefits by using the cinnamon powder.
I have been diagnosed with Type II diabetes and have recently started taking the Cinnamon supplements. I noticed a couple of weeks after taking 2 500 mg tablets a day, (the dosage required) that I was getting what I will refer to as an allergic reaction, puffy, itchy, red eyelids and under eyes. I am hoping it is not the cinnamon supplements but suspect that it may be, it really is working to bring down sugar levels. What to do? Stop all together to see if it goes away?
Posted by mlcoppola | Apr 06, 2009 at 7:34 pmHi mlcoppola,
It’s hard to say for sure if your “allergic reaction” is due to the cinnamon supplement, but unless you’ve started taking other medication or have seasonal allergies as well, it could very well be caused by the cinnamon. I agree with you that stopping it for now is your best bet. See if your symptoms disappear. If they do, then you’ll know. It’s a good idea to let your physician know, too, as your reaction could be due to something else. Perhaps you could gradually add the cinnamon back, in smaller doses, and see what happens, as well.
Posted by acampbell | Apr 07, 2009 at 1:23 pmMy mother-in-law is on insulin plus other meds. She is having a hard time controlling her sugar. Should she try cinnamon?
Posted by Wondering | Apr 18, 2009 at 11:12 amHi Wondering,
Posted by acampbell | Apr 20, 2009 at 12:58 pmI’m assuming your mother has type 2 diabetes? Cinnamon might help, but it may be that your mother needs a medication adjustment. Also, is she following a meal plan? Getting regular activity? I’d suggest she meet with her physician and a dietitian or diabetes educator, first, for some adjustments to her treatment plan.
My current AIC is 6.5, I started taking 1000mg of cinnamon daily after the test, I will keep will keep you posted on the next test.
Posted by gm061852 | Apr 25, 2009 at 9:38 amGM
I have diabetes 2 and have been taking cinnamin for about two years now. It appears to help as I am now controlling the sugar level to under 6.5 without any medication. It is much more stable now than it was before. Actually my diabetic doctor told me to try and use it.
All I can say is bravo for cinnamin
Archie Christiansen
Posted by bearmist | May 06, 2009 at 5:41 pmHi Archie,
Thanks for sharing your “cinnamon success story”!
Posted by acampbell | May 07, 2009 at 2:25 pmover the past six years i went in to labour with high blood pressure and from ever since i have to be taking three pressure pills every morning.If i raise my voice too loud it goes up , then a month ago i was diagnose of having diabetics i was put on metformin 500mg two times daily,diavista 15mg and glimepiride 4mg daily on sunday may 10,2009 i
Posted by maxine | May 15, 2009 at 6:40 pmdrink one cup of cinnamonmint tea every morning.
I realise my sugar level was dropping also my blood pressure . i have been going two days now without pressure or diabetic medications i have the machines so i check them regularly.when ever i check them i cried when i look back on the amount of money i could have saved if only i had know that cinnamon was so good.i am planning to visit my doctor this weekend and this might be the last i feel cheated on.
Hi Maxine,
That’s great that your blood glucose and blood pressure numbers have come down. However, please be very careful about stopping any of your medicines without first talking with your doctor. I’m glad that you’ll be seeing your doctor this week. Also, try not to feel “cheated” — medicines can work very well, but it sometimes takes time to find the dose that works for you.
Posted by acampbell | May 18, 2009 at 1:09 pmDo you know of any heart transplant patients that have tried the cinnamon??? I am going to check with my pharmacy, as one of my anti-rejection meds you can not have grapefruit or the juice.
I need to lower my blood sugars to avoid going on insulin,,, just bought some 500 mg capsules today of the cinnamon cassia. I hope I am able to take it and see if it will help.
Thanks,, God Blessings Today.
Posted by Sue Ann | Jun 17, 2009 at 3:32 pmHi Sue Ann,
I checked with the pharmacist who I work with. She said she would be concerned with the cinnamon possibly interacting with some of your antirejection drugs. Cinnamon has a small amount of a substance called coumarin (not coumadin) that, in larger doses, could hurt the liver. So, taking cinnamon along with your other medicines may not be a great idea. Your best bet is to talk to your doctor and your pharmacist before taking the cinnamon.
Posted by acampbell | Jun 18, 2009 at 8:29 am