Author: Ivan Red Jr.
Time for reading: ~1
minutes
Last Updated:
August 08, 2022
In this article, learn more about Cinnamon - A Balanced Intake Is Useful. It is best combined with other herbs..
Cinnamon is a spice obtained from the bark of several closely related species of evergreen trees. Cinnamomum zeylanicum is considered to be true cinnamon, while the more common in the United States and Europe is sometimes called cassia to distinguish it from the South Asian plant.
In any case, both plants are rich in biologically active substances with a number of beneficial physiological effects.
The polymeric polyphenols in cinnamon increase insulin sensitivity and improve glucose control by making fat cells much more sensitive to the presence of insulin in the blood. A retrospective analysis of a large amount of clinical data shows that cinnamon and its extract lower blood sugar levels in people with type II diabetes .
The effect has also been studied in detail through animal models. The results of the research are unambiguous - there is a reduction in body fat deposits and regression of fatty degeneration of the liver, muscles and heart. According to the researchers, the results are due to improved insulin sensitivity and reduced tendency of fat cells to accumulate fat. Specifically, in vitro studies have shown that the ingredients in cinnamon activate the regulatory protein of insulin sensitivity and adipocyte fat accumulation.
Cinnamon increases sweating and warms the body, which is why in diabetics it should be combined with herbs with a cooling and regulating water balance effect. Also, its warming effect precludes its use in inflammatory diseases, especially joints, as inflammation also leads to warming of the affected organs and depletion of body fluids.
The extract increases blood flow in the stomach, thus protecting the gastric mucosa from ulcers.
Despite its undeniable contribution to improving glycemic control, cinnamon should not be used as the sole therapeutic agent and in excessive amounts. European regulatory agencies have repeatedly publicize warnings against her overdose due to the content of coumarin that can lead to serious bleeding in excessive intakes .
Cinnamon also contains cinnamon aldehyde and styrene. Styrene, taken in large enough amounts, can damage the kidneys, gastrointestinal tract and lungs, while cinnamon aldehyde can increase the body's release of adrenaline and raise blood pressure.
This does not mean that cinnamon should not be used. Rather, it is a warning to diabetics that they should not overdo it, but use it within a balanced therapeutic regimen, including both prescribed medications and other herbs.