Some of my patients have reported taking large quantities of cinnamon to prevent diabetes. What is the overall effect of ingesting this spice?—ELIZABETH CONWELL, CRNP, Oregon, Wis.
Cinnamon’s insulin-sensitization effects, as well as its antiplatelet and anti-oxidative activity, make it a pleasant natural adjunct to diabetes treatment. Daily doses of 2-4 g are required for efficacy. Caution patients that standard medications will most likely be needed, however, when significant glucose reduction is required. For additional information on cinnamon’s efficacy, see the May 2007 issue of The Clinical Advisor (available at www.clinicaladvisor.com/Cinnamon/article /117124/).—Sherril Sego, MSN, FNP (134-4)
