Cinnamon and Blood Sugar
Posted: October 1, 2010
The type of cinnamon used in studies is Cinnamomum cassia, which is what we typically purchase at the grocery store. The dosage needed to have positive effects can be as little as 1 gram (1/3 teaspoon) to as much as 6 grams (2 teaspoons) per day. To reduce after-meal blood sugars, the water-soluble form of cinnamon used in supplements may be more effective than the culinary form.
There are side effects associated with using medicinal (larger) quantities of cinnamon, including skin reactions like contact dermatitis and rosacea. While uncommon, they are possible. And those who take medications to thin the blood and/or medications to lower blood sugar should inform their health care practitioner before taking large quantities of cinnamon, as it can increase the effects of these medications in the body.
