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Can sprinkling a bit of cinnamon on your morning toast help lower your cholesterol? Probably not, but some research suggests cinnamon may improve your cholesterol numbers under the right circumstances.

Most of the research on cinnamon and cholesterol has been in the context of diabetes. Cinnamon is known to improve glucose uptake and glycogen synthesis and to increase phosphorylation of the insulin receptor. These actions can help Type 2 diabetes maintain lower blood sugar levels. Chronic high blood sugar has also been associated with high cholesterol and triglycerides.

In 2003 Dr. Richard A. Anderson of the Beltsville Human Nutrition Research Center, United States Department of Agriculture, had shown that intake of 1, 3, or 6 g of cinnamon per day about the equivalent of a quarter to half a teaspoon of cinnamon twice a day - reduced serum glucose, triglyceride, LDL cholesterol, and total cholesterol in people with type 2 diabetes.

But research results have not been consistent. For instance, a study of cinnamon extract published in 2006 reported a positive effect on blood sugar but showed no effect on cholesterol levels. The bottom line is there is as yet insufficient evidence to be able to say whether cinnamon will actually lower cholesterol for most people.

If you're tempted to experiment yourself, keep in mind that the powdered cinnamon in your spice rack is not water soluble, meaning it can build up in your body's fat tissues. The toxic effect of high levels of cinnamon are not well understood. Also, saliva can break down some of the beneficial chemicals in cinnamon, so it must be taken in capsule form to be effective. It is not wise to attempt to self-medicate with cinnamon without a doctor's supervision.

Sources:
High cholesterol treatment: Does cinnamon lower cholesterol? www.mayoclinic.com/health/cinn amon-lower-cholesterol/AN01438

Cinnamon, Cloves Improve Insulin Function, Lower Risk Factors For Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease www.medicalnewstoday.com/artic les/41026.php

Cinnamon Improves Glucose and Lipids of People With Type 2 Diabetes http://care.diabetesjournals.o rg/cgi/content/full/26/12/3215

Learn more about this author, Scott Knickelbine.
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