Cholesterol and sugar levels are major health concerns in today’s world. High cholesterol levels can lead to heart diseases and strokes while high sugar levels cause diabetes and other health complications.

Both cholesterol and sugar levels in our bodies can be managed by natural remedies including cinnamon and chromium supplements. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of cinnamon and chromium in controlling cholesterol and sugar levels.

Cinnamon for Cholesterol control

Cinnamon is a spice derived from the bark of the cinnamon tree. It has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. Cinnamon contains many beneficial compounds including cinnamaldehyde, cinnamic acid, and cinnamate.

These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce cholesterol levels in the body.

A study published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine in 2012 found that cinnamon had a positive effect on cholesterol levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

The study revealed that cinnamon significantly reduced total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglyceride levels while increasing HDL cholesterol levels in the participants.

Another study published in the Annals of Family Medicine in June 2013 found that cinnamon supplementation significantly improved blood glucose, lipid, and LDL cholesterol levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

The study concluded that cinnamon can be useful for reducing cardiovascular risk factors and managing blood glucose levels in people with diabetes.

Chromium for Sugar control

Chromium is a mineral that is essential for glucose metabolism. It plays a key role in insulin action and glucose uptake into cells. Chromium deficiency is associated with insulin resistance and high blood sugar levels.

A study published in the Journal of Nutrition in 1997 found that chromium supplementation improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in people with type 2 diabetes.

The study concluded that chromium can be helpful for controlling blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.

Another study published in the British Journal of Nutrition in 2004 found that chromium supplementation significantly improved glucose and insulin levels in people with impaired glucose tolerance.

The study concluded that chromium can be useful for preventing type 2 diabetes.

Cinnamon and Chromium Combined Benefits

Combining cinnamon and chromium supplements can offer even greater benefits in managing cholesterol and sugar levels. Together, their effects can be synergistic – resulting in a greater reduction in cholesterol and sugar levels in the body.

A meta-analysis published in the Journal of Medicinal Food in 2020 found that cinnamon and chromium supplementation together significantly improved glucose, insulin, and cholesterol levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

The study concluded that cinnamon and chromium supplementation can be an effective intervention for managing blood sugar and lipid levels in people with diabetes.

How to use Cinnamon and Chromium supplements

Cinnamon and chromium supplements are available in capsule and tablet forms. They can be taken with or without food. The recommended dosage of cinnamon is 1-6 grams per day while that of chromium is 200-1000 mcg per day.

Cinnamon can also be used in cooking and baking. A sprinkle of cinnamon on your oatmeal or toast can offer various health benefits including regulating cholesterol and sugar levels in the body.

Cautions

Cinnamon and chromium supplements are generally safe for most people when taken in recommended dosages. However, they should be avoided by pregnant and breastfeeding women.

People taking medication for diabetes, hypoglycemia, and thyroid disorders should consult their healthcare provider before taking cinnamon and chromium supplements.

Conclusion

Cinnamon and chromium are natural remedies that can help to manage cholesterol and sugar levels in the body. Cinnamon helps to lower cholesterol levels while chromium improves glucose metabolism.

The combination of these supplements can offer even greater benefits in managing blood sugar and lipid levels in people with diabetes. However, people with preexisting medical conditions should consult their healthcare provider before taking cinnamon and chromium supplements to avoid any potential complications.