Cinnamon, with a sweet and spicy taste and a strong aroma, has not only aphrodisiac properties, but also health benefits. Scientists report that water-soluble cinnamon extract contains antioxidants that lower the risk of diabetes and heart disease.
Twenty-two obese participants with blood glucose disturbances were followed for 12 weeks. Their health condition is called pre-diabetes, informs EurekAlert.
Participants were randomly divided into two groups who received twice a day, while maintaining their current diet, the first placebo and the second 250 milligrams of dried, water-soluble cinnamon. Fasting blood was drawn at the start of the study, at 6 weeks, and after 12 weeks, to measure changes in glucose and antioxidants.
A study by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and chemist Richard Anderson found that water-soluble cinnamon extract increased the number of antioxidants by 13 to 23 percent, which is associated with a decrease in glucose levels.