It's a natural and inexpensive remedy. Note: Make sure you are using real cinnamon. Many common “cinnamon” brands use a different species of plant, called Cassia, which is not the same as true Ceylon cinnamon. Make sure your cinnamon is made from Ceylon cinnamon to reap the full benefits.
Prior research have revealed that cinnamon has a broad range of positive health effects, including hypoglycemic, anti-inflammatory, anti-lipidemic and antioxidant properties (13). Moreover, cinnamon is an herbal remedy used traditionally by patients with PCOS to improve their menstrual cycle (8).
Side Effects of Cinnamon
Careful monitoring of blood sugar levels is important to prevent hypoglycemia, which a lot of women with PCOS tend to experience as a result of elevated insulin levels. While side effects are very minimal, there is no need to exceed more than 2 teaspoons (6 grams) per day to get results.
Another study showed that daily use of cinnamon for forty days lowered the blood sugar level in patients with diabetes. Our own study also showed that using cinnamon everyday for 8 weeks decreased insulin resistance in women with PCOS.
Among various herbs, Glycyrrhiza glabra (liquorice), Linum (chaste berry), Vitex negundo (Chinese chaste tree), Foeniculum vulgare (fennel) and Curcuma longa (Turmeric) are potential plant sources that have shown effective action against PCOS [8].
Cinnamon contains a natural chemical called cinnamaldehyde, which studies show increases the hormone progesterone and decreases testosterone production in women, helping to balance hormones.
Cinnamon:
Keeping insulin levels in check is necessary to maintain good hormone health and can even keep symptoms of hormonal disorders such as Policystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) at bay. Sprinkle cinnamon on oatmeal, cereal, or use it in baked goods.
HOMA-IR, an indicator of insulin resistance, was also significantly decreased by metformin and cinnamon intake. Moreover, no difference was seen in the ability of cinnamon and metformin in reducing HOMA-IR. As a result, cinnamon seems to be as effective as metformin in increasing the Insulin sensitivity.
Cinnamon can help deal with several symptoms of PCOS. It can help regularise menstrual cycle as well as lower blood sugar levels.
For most people, cinnamon supplements seem to be safe, at least in small amounts for short-term use. But higher amounts used for longer periods of time may trigger side effects such as gastrointestinal problems or allergic reactions. It also may cause problems for people who have liver disease.
Ceylon, on the other hand, is “true” cinnamon that is sourced from Sri Lanka, Madagascar and the Seychelles. Typically more expensive, Ceylon has a lighter, brighter and spicier flavor than cassia cinnamon. The good news: it has 63 times LESS coumarin than cassia so it is safer to use, especially in large quantities.
Ceylon cinnamon – this contains only trace amounts of coumarin, so can be consumed in larger amounts of up to 5g (2.5tsp) a day. Avoid taking cinnamon supplements if you are: pregnant or a child – it hasn't been proved safe.
Well, experts suggest that Cinnamon can help in boosting libido and fertility in both men and women and if you are planning a baby then this spice must make its way to your day-to-day diet.
But did you know that by adding this simple aromatic spice to your diet, you can actually improve your chances to get pregnant. Well, experts suggest that Cinnamon can help in boosting libido and fertility in both men and women and if you are planning a baby then this spice must make its way to your day-to-day diet.
Honey cinnamon and lemon water: Drinking a concoction of lemon, cinnamon and honey in boiling water can help you in losing weight and reduce the effects of PCOS. To make this beneficial drink, boil a glass of water with a stick of cinnamon. Then add a spoon full of honey and a few drops of lemon.
Cinnamon is essential in our kitchen as well as in our health. It helps regulate the blood flow to the uterus and may treat irregular periods. It may reduce abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting during periods. For best results, add a teaspoon of cinnamon powder to a glass of milk and consume it.
Cinnamon has antispasmodic, anti-clotting and anti-inflammatory properties that can relieve menstrual pain. Plus, cinnamon is an excellent source of dietary fibre, calcium, iron and manganese.
Some experts suggest 1/2 to 1 teaspoon (2-4 grams) of powder a day. Some studies have used between 1 gram and 6 grams of cinnamon. High doses might be toxic.