Cinnamon can improve sensitivity to the hormone insulin

Cinnamon is a wonderful spice that is high in plant compounds. It's also renowned for lowering blood sugar levels and improving insulin sensitivity. Insulin is a hormone that controls metabolism and energy use. It's also required for the transport of blood sugar from circulation to the cells. The issue is that many people are resistant to insulin's effects. Insulin resistance is a symptom of serious conditions such as metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes.

The good news is that cinnamon can help this important hormone do its work by reducing insulin resistance. Cinnamon can reduce blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity. Consuming 1/2–3 teaspoons (1–6 grams) of cinnamon daily, for example, significantly decreased both short- and long-term blood sugar levels, according to one meta-analysis. Cinnamon is thought to improve insulin sensitivity by making glucose receptors on muscle cells more available and efficient in transporting sugar into the cells. Cinnamon contains compounds that can mimic insulin and act directly on cells, according to some research.