SARASOTA, Fla., Oct. 30 (UPI) -- A cinnamon extract reduces oxidative stress associated with the metabolic syndrome linked to diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, a U.S. study found.
The placebo-controlled, double-blind study was designed to determine both the antioxidant and insulin-like activity of a water-based cinnamon extract on people with impaired insulin function.
Twenty-four participants with impaired fasting glucose were given either a placebo or 250 mg of Cinnulin PF twice daily for 12 weeks. The Cinnulin PF group saw a significant increase in two measures that determine antioxidant activity, including ferric reducing ability of plasma and plasma SH. Additionally, the cinnamon group demonstrated a decrease in malondialdehde showing heart health protection. No changes were observed in the placebo group, according to study leader Dr. Anne-Marie Rousel.
"The results are extremely positive," according to collaborator Dr. Richard A. Anderson of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. "This study tells us that the active compounds found in cinnamon extract may be helpful in reducing the risk of these diseases by providing cells protection from harmful oxidation."
The findings were presented at the 47th American College of Nutrition annual meeting.
