Many studies have shown that cinnamon has an affect on lowering cholesterol. In one study, the test subjects showed a reduction of 7% to 27% in their LDL bad cholesterol, 23% to 30% in their triglycerides (blood fats), and 1% to 26% total cholesterol.
Despite the many studies showing the beneficial effects of cinnamon on lowering cholesterol, the scientific community is still not convinced. There are several ongoing studies to clearly define if cinnamon is what it has been touted to be.
Cinnamon comes from the inner bark of the shoots of a tree that grows in China, India, and Ceylon. The inner rind is dried and rolled into cylinders. It can be ground into powder, whole as coiled sticks (called quills), extracted as an oil, or in capsule form as a dietary supplement.
The spice comes in a few different varieties. The first, Cinnamomum verum, also known as "true" cinnamon is commonly used in sweet pastries. On the other hand, Cinnamomum cassia, also known as cassia, is often seen on the grocery shelves.
Several studies have suggested that one-half teaspoon (one gram) of cassia cinnamon a day helped lower LDL bad cholesterol levels and triglyceride (blood fat) levels. HDL good cholesterol levels were unchanged. High doses of cinnamon might prove to be dangerous. You should consult with your health-care practitioner before you do this.
Cinnamon is an antioxidant neutralizing free radicals and protecting the artery-cell walls from invasion by oxidized LDL particles. Thus ensuring a healthy-heart system.
Cinnamon can also improve glucose levels in the blood. For people with type 2 diabetes this is important information. One study showed that type 2 diabetics who took cinnamon capsules lowered their blood sugar by an average of 18% to 29%.
Type II diabetics are insulin resistant. For some reason, that is not clearly understood, the the insulin receptors on the cells of these diabetics resist the acceptance of insulin and glucose. Proanthrocyanidin, an active molecule in cinnamon, functions by activating the insulin receptor within the cell, therefore enabling the cell to use glucose for its energy. In this manner glucose is absorbed more easily by the cells and blood sugar levels drop.
It's not a good idea to eat a lot of cinnamon buns and breads using the excuse that you are trying to get your daily dosage of the spice. Because these pastries will only add to your weight and being overweight is a risk factor for diabetes as well as heart disease.
Cinnamon is sweet tasting and may be sprinkled on many foods. A half teaspoon of ground cinnamon over whole-grain cereal with 2% or fat free milk can make a tasty, healthy breakfast. It can also be added in ground or stick form to coffee, tea, or orange juice.
It's always best to check with your doctor before taking any supplement, especially if you have heart disease, or if you're taking any medication. And if you think you are allergic, or you are allergic to cinnamon don't eat it.
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