Cinnamon spice is nice

Researchers have found that cinnamon can help type II diabetics lower their levels of glucose (blood sugar), triglycerides (which contribute to hardening of the arteries), and LDL (bad cholesterol levels.

Subjects in the study at the Human Nutrition Research Center took one to six grams of cinnamon extract daily. After 40 days, on average their glucose levels were down 18 per cent, triglycerides were down 25 per cent, and LDL cholesterol were down 12 per cent.

In lowering LDL cholesterol, cinnamon proved to be as effective as statin drugs, which lower cholesterol and triglycerides by blocking production in the liver but produce dangerous side-effects such as kidney problems and weakened muscles.

Researchers say as little as 1/2 teaspoon (2 ml) cinnamon extract each day can be effective. Try soaking a cinnamon stick in tea for a beneficial effect.