How Cinnamon Lowers Blood Sugar and Fights Diabetes

Cinnamon, a beloved spice with a rich history in global cuisines, is increasingly recognized for its potential health benefits, especially in supporting healthy blood sugar levels and helping to fight diabetes. Across human, animal, and cellular studies, its promise for metabolic health is backed by several scientific findings. This extensive review uncovers how cinnamon works, what the evidence shows, and practical considerations for those considering it as part of their diabetes management routine.

What Is Cinnamon?
Cinnamon is derived from the inner bark of several tree species in the genus Cinnamomum. The two main types are:

• Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum): Known as “true cinnamon.” 
• Cassia cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia): The more common and inexpensive form found in supermarkets. 

Both types contain polyphenolic compounds thought to influence glucose metabolism, but Cassia is most frequently studied for its effects on diabetes. 

How Cinnamon Affects Blood Sugar

Cinnamon, a popular kitchen spice, is gaining attention for its potential role in supporting blood sugar control. Research suggests it may help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce fasting glucose levels, making it a possible complementary approach for people with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes when used alongside medical treatment. 

• May help improve insulin sensitivity. 
• Can support lower fasting blood sugar levels. 
• Might help reduce post-meal glucose spikes. 
• Works best as a complement to diabetes treatment, not a replacement. 

1. The study Cinnamon Use in Type 2 Diabetes: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis evaluated 10 randomized controlled trials involving 543 participants. Cinnamon supplementation (120 mg to 6 g daily for 4–18 weeks) was linked to reduced fasting plasma glucose, total cholesterol, LDL-C, and triglycerides, alongside increased HDL-C. However, no significant change in hemoglobin A1c was observed, and high variability across studies limits firm clinical recommendations.
2.  The study Cinnamon Improves Glucose and Lipids of People With Type 2 Diabetes investigated 60 adults randomized to consume 1, 3, or 6 g of cinnamon daily, or placebo, for 40 days followed by a 20-day washout. All cinnamon doses significantly reduced fasting glucose, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and total cholesterol, with effects persisting for some parameters post-intervention, while HDL cholesterol remained unchanged.
3.  The study The Effect of Different Amounts of Cinnamon Consumption on Blood Glucose in Healthy Adult Individuals examined 41 healthy adults consuming 1 g, 3 g, or 6 g of cinnamon daily for 40 days. Results showed significant reductions in postprandial blood glucose across all doses and a significant decline in preprandial glucose only with 6 g/day, while BMI and HbA1c remained unchanged. Higher doses (3–6 g) yielded more pronounced benefits.

Recommended Amount  

Studies generally reference 1–6g/day (about 0.5 tsp to 2 tsp), but doses above 1g/day are rarely needed for benefit. 

• Choose Ceylon cinnamon: Ceylon contains less coumarin, a compound that can be toxic in high doses; Cassia is effective but should not be consumed long-term in large quantities. 

• Add to food or smoothies: Cinnamon can be sprinkled on oatmeal, mixed into yogurt, or incorporated into recipes. 

Safety and Precautions 

• Generally safe: Most people can use cinnamon as a food or supplement without side effects when consumed in moderation. 
• Coumarin toxicity: Cassia cinnamon contains higher levels of coumarin, which in excess may harm the liver. Ceylon cinnamon is safer for regular use. 
• Drug interactions: Cinnamon may intensify the effects of glucose-lowering medications; consult your healthcare provider before starting cinnamon supplements. 
• Allergy or intolerance: Rarely, allergic reactions or GI upset can occur. 

Should You Use Cinnamon for Diabetes?

Evidence strongly suggests that cinnamon can help lower blood sugar and improve lipid profiles in many people with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes, especially as part of an overall healthy diet and lifestyle. However, it is not a substitute for medication or medical management, and its effects are modest compared to prescription therapies if used alone.

Cinnamon offers a natural, accessible way to support blood sugar control and help fight diabetes. Its mechanisms, improving insulin sensitivity, lowering fasting and post-meal blood sugar, protecting lipid health, and delivering potent antioxidants are demonstrated in scientific studies, albeit with variation from one population to another. For most, moderate cinnamon intake is safe and may provide a meaningful adjunct to routine diabetes care. Always check with your healthcare provider before adding supplements and aim for Ceylon cinnamon to reduce coumarin risks.

Disclaimer: The Statement has not been evaluated by the EFSA, KFDA or FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. While the information provided is based on credible references, we do not make any specific claims or guarantees. It is important to consult with your healthcare advisor for personalized advice and guidance related to your health. 

References: 

• Cinnamon Use in Type 2 Diabetes: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis  
• Cinnamon Improves Glucose and Lipids of People With Type 2 Diabetes 
• The Effect of Different Amounts of Cinnamon Consumption on Blood Glucose in Healthy Adult Individuals   
• Does Cinnamon Help Diabetes? 
• Ceylon cinnamon: a versatile ingredient for futuristic diabetes management