Cinnamon
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Cinnamon. Common spice with modest glucose-lowering effects (cassia type studied most).
How it works. Methylhydroxychalcone polymer mimics insulin signaling.
What the research supports. 1 graded claims. Strongest: Modest fasting glucose reduction in T2D (moderate).
How much to take. Typical dose: 1–3 g cassia or higher Ceylon.
Side effects and interactions. 2 medication interactions listed. Serious: Hepatotoxicity (cassia, high dose chronically).
Stacking. Pairs well with A high-quality multivitamin, Omega-3 (EPA/DHA). Avoid combining with High-dose cassia.
Common forms. Available as Cassia powder, Ceylon powder, Standardized extract.
Key studies. 8 studies cited. The strongest are listed with links to PubMed.
Community. Experiences from people who have tried Cinnamon. Anecdotes are not medical advice.
Cinnamon. Common spice with modest glucose-lowering effects (cassia type studied most).
What it is
Common spice with modest glucose-lowering effects (cassia type studied most).
Also called
Food sources
Goals
How it works
Methylhydroxychalcone polymer mimics insulin signaling.
Pathways
- Insulin signaling potentiation
Effects
- ↓Fasting glucose decreases
What the research supports
Strong: consistent results across large trials or meta-analyses. Moderate: several trials, mostly positive. Limited: small or mixed studies. Preclinical: animal or cell research only.
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Side effects & interactions
Serious
- Hepatotoxicity (cassia, high dose chronically)
Medication interactions
Additive.
Coumarin content (cassia).
Check any supplement–medication combination with your pharmacist before starting.
Combines with
Pairs well
- A high-quality multivitaminCovers micronutrient cofactors that support most supplement pathways.
- Omega-3 (EPA/DHA)Foundational anti-inflammatory support that complements most regimens.
Avoid combining
- High-dose cassiaUse Ceylon for chronic use to limit coumarin.
Common forms
- Cassia powder
- Ceylon powder
- Standardized extract
Key studies
8 studies cited in total.
Reduced fasting glucose and improved lipids.
Opens current human and preclinical literature matching Cinnamon and "Modest fasting glucose reduction in T2D". Filter by RCT, meta-analysis, or year on the results page.
Opens current human and preclinical literature matching Cinnamon and "randomized controlled trial". Filter by RCT, meta-analysis, or year on the results page.
Discussion
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