Cinnamon Helps Control Blood Sugar

Newspaper Columns, Herb & Home Remedy Q&A August 21, 2007

Q. When my daughter learned that I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, she did some research on the Internet. She found out that cinnamon capsules would be helpful. I have used cinnamon for about three years.

My family doctor does blood tests and has confirmed that cinnamon keep my blood sugar under control. This was also proven when I was admitted to the hospital for another problem. They tested me three times a day and found that my diabetes is well controlled.

A. There is research to support your experience. Cinnamon can keep levels of blood glucose from going too high after a meal. We don’t recommend using cinnamon from the spice rack, though, since some brands may be contaminated with coumarin. This ingredient can be toxic to the liver. Taking cinnamon capsules can be safer.

We discuss the use of cinnamon and other natural approaches for type 2 diabetes (oolong tea, prickly pear cactus, vinegar, fenugreek, bitter melon) in our book, Best Choices From The People’s Pharmacy.

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Joe Graedon is a pharmacologist. Teresa Graedon holds a doctorate in medical anthropology and is a nutrition expert. Their syndicated radio show can be heard on public radio. In their column, Joe and Teresa Graedon answer letters from readers. Write to them in care of this newspaper or e-mail them via their Web site: www.PeoplesPharmacy.com.

The People's Pharmacy® with Joe and Terry Graedon

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