Efficacy of Cinnamon in Treating Individuals with Diabetes: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Cinnamon supplement is used frequently as a complementary therapy in individuals with diabetes. This systematic review aims to evaluate the efficacy of cinnamon supplement in treating individuals with diabetes.We conducted a systematic literature search and identified the studies evaluating the efficacy of cinnamon supplementation in patients with diabetes. Weighted mean differences were determined within a random effect model. Primary outcome was glycemic control. Secondary outcomes assessed were lipid levels and adverse events related to cinnamon supplement.Twelve RCTs (pooled sample size: 1050 with 514 in the intervention arm) with data on the efficacy of cinnamon on treating individuals with diabetes were included in this systematic review. Of these, eleven studies were included in the quantitative synthesis. Analysis showed that cinnamon supplementation for 8-16 weeks was associated with significant reduction in fasting blood sugar (SMD = -12.06, 95% CI: -16.35 to -7.77, p<0.05) and post-prandial blood sugar (SMD =-11.28, 95% CI: -16.82 to -5.75, p<0.05). When cinnamon supplement was given for ≥ 12 weeks it was associated with reduction in HbA1c (SMD = -0.26, 95% CI: -0.41 to -0.10, p<0.05). Five RCTs (pooled sample size: 576 with 278 in the intervention arm) provided data on the effect of cinnamon on lipid profile. When data from these studies were pooled there was significant change in total cholesterol and LDL in cinnamon supplementation group compared to control group.Cinnamon supplementation for 8-16 weeks was associated with an improvement in glycaemic control and lipid profile.