Is Cinnamon Good for Diabetics

Slofoodgroup Team February 28, 2024

Using Cinnamon to Improve the Diabetic Lifestyle

Diabetes is a chronic condition of epidemic status in the United States and beyond. The condition can be genetic but can also be brought about from long-term poor dietary choices that have led to insulin resistance or insufficient insulin production. To prevent complications and maintain overall health, blood sugar levels need to be managed.

There are several ways of doing so. For many, improvements in diet and the inclusion of an exercise regime can be enough to manage blood sugar levels, but for others, medicine or insulin injections may be required. In this article, we will discuss the ways cinnamon can be used to naturally lower blood sugar levels and assist the body in improving one’s insulin sensitivity. We want to be clear, though, that we are not making any medical recommendations. This article is meant to provide you with information so you can have an informed conversation with your healthcare provider.

Using Cinnamon to Reduce Blood Sugar Levels After Meals

The magic of cinnamon is its ability to slow the process of carbohydrate breakdown in the body. This cinnamon superpower can be a great way to help prevent sudden spikes in blood sugar throughout the day because, when food takes longer to digest, blood sugar levels are less likely to rise at a rapid rate.

When incorporating cinnamon into your meals, it is recommended to use it in moderation. Try sprinkling it on top of your morning yogurt, adding it to a stew, or incorporating it into a blended beverage. Light to moderate amounts is key to helping the body naturally and consuming an excessive amount may lead to adverse effects.

Using Cinnamon to Improve Insulin Sensitivity

Insulin sensitivity refers to how effectively cells respond to insulin, the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels. When someone is diagnosed with diabetes, it is likely because their insulin sensitivity is impaired or low. This leads to an inability to properly digest glucose and regulate blood sugar levels.

Although cinnamon is not the cure, it is a great natural aid in improving one's insulin sensitivity. Studies suggest, that when individuals regularly consume moderate amounts of cinnamon, their ability to naturally regulate insulin and blood sugar levels improves. This is likely due to the body's muscle memory. By consuming spices like Ceylon cinnamon on a daily basis and training the body to digest food at a slower rate, the body may learn to regulate these levels naturally.

Using Cinnamon Wisely

While cinnamon shows promise as a supportive tool for the management of diabetes, it's essential to use it wisely and in conjunction with other aspects of a healthy lifestyle. Scientists and health experts do recommend using it as a replacement for a medicine, diet, or exercise, but instead to enhance your current efforts. Incorporating cinnamon into your meals can be a great way to ensure you are caring for your physical well-being (while also uplifting the flavor of your food). It can be viewed as a singular piece of a puzzle. Adding cinnamon to your daily habits is a step toward improving your overall health, but not the only step. With that being said, it is always important to continue seeking guidance from a doctor when you are struggling with diabetes.

Cinnamon is truly one of the most powerful spices one can have in their kitchen. Its healing properties partnered with its aromatic and delicious flavor make it a staple in one’s spice collection. For those with diabetes, it is also a great ingredient to add in meals when you want to reduce your risk of a spike in blood sugar and improve one’s insulin sensitivity.

Remember, adding cinnamon to your diet is not a one-step solution to improving symptoms of diabetes, but it is a great addition when seeking natural ways to aid in blood sugar regulation. By making informed choices about diet, exercise, and lifestyle habits, individuals with diabetes may help improve their lifestyle and overall health.

Ready to start incorporating cinnamon into your diet but don’t know what meal to start with? Check out Slofoodgroup’s very own Simple Crockpot Quesabirria Tacos with Cinnamon. A unique and tasty dinner option that the whole family will love.

*****