Cinnamon

[Mum]

Hi
I'm new to all this so apologies if this has already been discussed at some point. Just wondering though what people know about Cinnamon? In the latest Good Housekeeping Mag they say that half a teaspoon of cinnamon sprinkled over your toast or cereal each day helps control blood sugar levels. I don't have the article in front of me right now but the way they worded it they made it sound like this was exciting news for diabetics.
Vikki
I'm mum to my 3 yr old who has only just been diagnosed type 1.

 

[Admin]

Hmmm not sure!

Hi Vikki
This theory has been around for years - though I have never tested it. I guess it works by slowing down the absorbtion of sugar in the blood. I really like cinnamon - but you can overload on it - I always do when I go to the states as it is in everything over there even gum! I do think you would have to have a rather lot for it to have an effect - and it is quite an overpowering taste if over done.

 

[diagonall]

Hi Viki,
It sounds as if the magazine has not made it clear they are talking about type 2's.

 

[Caroline]

Well it's worth a try, it sounds quite tasty, but I'd keep taking the pills or using the insulin too. I tried nettle tea bags. They were expensive, tasted awfull and only made a hole in my budget!

 

[Copepod]

Generally, using spices, including cinnamon etc, means you want less sugar, while using herbs, including pepper etc, means you want less salt - so that's good all round, as long as you adjust insulin doses, if you use it.

 

[nicky_too]

I've asked my dietrician and DN once about this and it turns out that as with all things for some people it works and for others it doesn't. Also you'd have to use an enormous amount to really have an effect and then it would become unhealthy. So don't count on it to work or at least not a lot.