Does Cinnamon Lower Blood Sugar for Type 2 Diabetics?

My diabetes patients often ask me if cinnamon will help lower their blood sugar.  Some have reported that they have successfully used cinnamon while others have said cinnamon had no impact on their blood sugar readings.
I decided to do some research on my own.  I found a mix of results.  One study showed that cinnamon may lower blood sugar by decreasing insulin resistance.  In another study, cinnamon had no effect.  A third study suggests its use in the diet as a supplement.  In my opinion, it appears that more research is needed to confirm these findings and it may not yet be time to throw your diabetes pills away for cinnamon!
 
So, is Cinnamon Safe for People with Type 2 Diabetes?

It appears to be. It is classified as a food supplement and not a drug.  Just be aware that large amounts may increase liver problems in people with liver damage.  If you do plan to use cinnamon, speak to your physician first. 

What are your thoughts on supplements to control your blood sugar?

 

^{http://care.diabetesjournals.org/content/26/12/3215.full  Accessed 9/16/2011.}

^{http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16549460?dopt=Abstract Accessed 9/17/2011.}