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Cinnamon

What does the research say about Cinnamon?

5 health outcomes synthesised

Cinnamon has been researched across 5 health outcomes, with the strongest evidence supporting its role in reducing hemoglobin A1c (6 studies, high evidence strength) and fasting blood glucose levels (5 studies, moderate evidence) in adults with type 2 diabetes. Effective doses typically range from 600 mg to 2 g per day, with effects observed over 30–84 days.

Strongest evidence: Cinnamon shows high evidence for reducing hemoglobin A1c (4 of 6 studies beneficial, moderate effect size) and moderate evidence for reducing fasting blood glucose (4 of 5 studies beneficial, moderate to large effect size). Both outcomes primarily involve adults with type 2 diabetes, with doses ≤2 g/day (including 600 mg/day).

Mixed or weaker evidence: For triglyceride reduction, evidence is moderate (3 of 4 studies beneficial, small effect size), but heterogeneity is high (I²=88%). Blood cholesterol reduction has low evidence (3 of 4 studies beneficial, moderate effect), and blood glucose (review-level) has low evidence (3 of 3 studies beneficial, moderate effect), but both suffer from small study numbers and lack of clear dose information.

Effective dose patterns: Across outcomes, the most common effective dose range is ≤2 g/day, with 600 mg/day also showing benefits. Doses above 2 g/day are not well-studied.

Population insights: The majority of research focuses on adults and the elderly with type 2 diabetes; some studies include patients with dyslipidemia. Effects appear consistent in these clinical populations, but generalizability to healthy individuals is unclear.

Notable caveats: Publication bias is a concern across all outcomes (null results less likely published). Many studies have small sample sizes, short durations (median 57 days), and high heterogeneity. Some trials combined cinnamon with other supplements, making it difficult to isolate its independent effect.

Frequently asked

  • What is cinnamon good for according to research?
    Research shows cinnamon may help reduce hemoglobin A1c and fasting blood glucose levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. Evidence is strongest for hemoglobin A1c (4 of 6 studies beneficial) and fasting blood glucose (4 of 5 studies beneficial). Smaller bodies of evidence suggest potential benefits for triglyceride and cholesterol reduction.
  • What dose of cinnamon is typically used in studies?
    Studies commonly use doses of 600 mg to 2 g per day. For hemoglobin A1c, doses ≤2 g/day show moderate evidence; for fasting blood glucose, both 600 mg/day and ≤2 g/day are effective. Doses above 2 g/day are not well-studied.
  • Who benefits most from cinnamon?
    Most studies focus on adults and the elderly with type 2 diabetes. Some research also includes patients with dyslipidemia. Benefits are primarily observed in these clinical populations; effects in healthy individuals are less studied.
  • Are there caveats or limitations in the research on cinnamon?
    Yes. Publication bias is a concern—null-result studies are less likely to be published. Many studies have small sample sizes, short durations (median 57 days), and high heterogeneity. Some trials combined cinnamon with other supplements, making it difficult to isolate its independent effect.
  • Does cinnamon help with triglyceride levels?
    Evidence is moderate: 3 of 4 studies show a beneficial effect, but effect sizes are predominantly small and heterogeneity is high (I²=88%). Doses ≤2 g/day over at least 30 days may be needed, but results are inconsistent.
  • How long does it take for cinnamon to show effects?
    Studies typically last 30–84 days, with median duration around 57 days. Shorter-term effects are less certain due to limited data.

Most-studied combinations with Cinnamon

most supplement research is combination research
Also studied with:Turmeric (2), Black Cumin (2), Cumin (2), Fenugreek (4), Berberine (3), Ginger (6), clove (2), Black Pepper (2), Turmeric (3), Chicory (2), fennel (2), Rosemary (2)

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