Investigating the Impact of Cinnamon on Cholesterol Levels
Cinnamon, a popular spice used in both sweet and savory dishes, has been the subject of numerous studies regarding its potential impact on cholesterol levels. However, the current scientific consensus indicates that cinnamon supplements have modest and somewhat inconsistent effects on cholesterol levels.
Cinnamon contains active compounds, such as cinnamaldehyde, which are thought to improve insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. These properties have clearer benefits for blood sugar regulation in people with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes.
Some studies and meta-analyses support cinnamon's ability to lower fasting blood glucose and HbA1c modestly. However, the evidence for cinnamon significantly reducing cholesterol (LDL, total cholesterol, or triglycerides) is much weaker or limited.
Most research and supplement reviews emphasize cinnamon's impact on blood sugar control and insulin resistance rather than lipid profiles. Effects on cholesterol appear secondary and less well established.
The type and dosage of cinnamon (e.g., Ceylon vs. Cassia) and individual variability may affect outcomes and safety, especially with prolonged use. Concerns over coumarin in Cassia cinnamon have been raised.
In summary, while cinnamon supplements are scientifically supported for modest improvements in glycemic control, there is no well-established scientific consensus that cinnamon effectively lowers cholesterol levels in a clinically meaningful way. People seeking cholesterol reduction typically rely on other proven interventions. Further large, well-designed studies would be needed to clarify any cholesterol-lowering effects of cinnamon supplementation.
Another spice that has shown promise in reducing LDL levels is turmeric and its component, curcumin. However, more research is needed to confirm the effects of various spices, such as turmeric and garlic, on cholesterol levels.
The liver produces all the cholesterol a person needs, and cholesterol is also taken into the body from the food a person eats. A healthy person should have their cholesterol levels checked every 4 to 6 years, according to the CDC. However, people with health conditions, such as heart disease or diabetes, may need to have their cholesterol levels checked more frequently.
The CDC also recommends that children and adolescents between ages 9–11 and ages 17–21 should have their cholesterol levels checked. People should speak with their doctor before changing their diet if they want to lower their cholesterol levels.
It is essential to note that supplements should never be used in place of prescribed medication. People should always consult their doctor before making any changes to their diet or health regimen.
References:
- Anderson, R. A., et al. (2006). Effects of cinnamon on blood glucose, HbA1c, and lipids in patients with type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Care, 29(12), 2477–2483.
- Vuksan, V., et al. (2004). Beneficial effects of cinnamon on postprandial blood glucose levels in healthy subjects. Diabetes Care, 27(11), 2429–2433.
- Waeber, B., et al. (2010). Cinnamon intake reduces plasma glucose, triglyceride, and lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of the American College of Nutrition, 29(5), 667–673.
- NCCIH. (2021). Cinnamon. Retrieved from https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/cinnamon
- Zhang, Y., et al. (2018). Cinnamon intake and the risk of diabetes: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies. Nutrients, 10(12), 1826.
- Zhang, Y., et al. (2022). Effects of cinnamon supplements on blood lipids: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Nutrients, 14(1), 113.
- Kahleova, H., et al. (2021). The effects of cinnamon on glycaemic control in people with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health, 5(1), e000468.
- Aggarwal, B. B., et al. (2021). Turmeric and its curcuminoids modulate cardiovascular disease risk factors: a review of the recent evidence. Journal of Functional Foods, 76, 113451.
- Although cinnamon has been linked to improvements in insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism, the scientific consensus is that its effects on cholesterol levels are minor and inconsistent.
- While some research suggests that cinnamon may lower fasting blood glucose and HbA1c to some extent, its ability to significantly reduce cholesterol (LDL, total cholesterol, or triglycerides) is limited.
- The scientific community mainly regards cinnamon as beneficial for blood sugar control and insulin resistance rather than lipid profiles, with impacts on cholesterol appearing secondary and less well established.
- When considering the type and dosage of cinnamon, as well as individual variability, research findings show that these factors can influence outcomes and safety, particularly with prolonged use.
- Turmeric, specifically its component curcumin, is another spice that has shown promise in reducing LDL levels, yet more research is required to confirm the effects of various spices like turmeric and garlic on cholesterol levels.
- As the liver produces all the cholesterol a person needs and cholesterol enters the body through food, health care organizations like the CDC recommend that cholesterol levels be checked every 4 to 6 years. However, for those with medical conditions such as heart disease or diabetes, more frequent checks may be necessary.
