Monday, 21 November 2011

Cinnamon (Dalchini), A Boon for Diabetics...

                                                                     
  Cinnamon (Dalchini) is one of the oldest spices. It is an aromatic spice made from the dried bark of a Southeast Asian tree.
  Many studies have shown that cinnamon (dalchini) has a positive effect on the blood sugar control after meals and the lipid profile in patients with diabetes mellitus type 2.
  The results of a study shows that intake of 1, 3, or 6 g of cinnamon per day reduces blood glucose, triglyceride, LDL (bad) cholesterol, and total cholesterol in people with type 2 diabetes and suggest that the inclusion of cinnamon in the diet of people with type 2 diabetes will reduce risk factors associated with diabetes and heart diseases.
  Dalchini increases body's ability to utilize insulin which to keep blood sugar levels under control.
  Another study suggests that ingestion of 6 g cinnamon reduces post meal blood glucose concentrations and also slows down the digestion of food in stomach. Thus food remains in the stomach for a longer period of time as a result of which, there is a slow  rate at which glucose is released into the blood, thus controlling the blood sugar levels and does not let it rise.
  A study conducted noted that a daily intake of one-half teaspoon of cinnamon not only lowered blood sugar levels in type II diabetics, it also significantly lowered LDL and triglyceride levels, HDL, or "good" cholesterol, which is needed by the body was not lowered or affected by cinnamon in this study.
 So only 1/4 th to 1/2 tsp of dalchini powder daily -not to forget- alongwith proper diet and exercise may help controlling diabetes.
  The best way to include cinnamon powder daily in diet is to mix 1/4th to 1/2 teaspoon of the powder in a glass of luke warm water. Drink it empty stomach, first thing in the morning 15 minutes to half an hour before breakfast.
 Another way is adding it in already cooked food just before serving.

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