ingestible · for blood sugar support
Cinnamon (Ceylon)
Reviewed by the Nimbera editorial team · Last updated May 2026
How to use
Take 1-3 g/day (1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon) of Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum, preferred over cassia due to lower coumarin content) added to food or in capsule form. For capsules: 500 mg twice daily with meals.
How it works
Type-A polymeric polyphenols in cinnamon mimic insulin signalling, activating insulin receptor autophosphorylation and downstream GLUT4 glucose transporter expression. Cinnamaldehyde also inhibits alpha-glucosidase enzymes in the gut, slowing glucose absorption from carbohydrates after meals.
Where to buy
Ceylon cinnamon powder at specialty spice stores and Asian grocers ($5-$15 for bulk), Frontier Co-op Ceylon Cinnamon ($8-$12/1 oz), NOW Foods Cinnamon Bark Extract capsules ($10-$15/90 capsules) - at health food stores.
Typical cost: $5-$15/month dietary; $10-$20/month for capsules.
Safety notes
Prefer Ceylon cinnamon (C. verum) over Cassia cinnamon (C. cassia) for daily supplementation - cassia contains high coumarin levels that can cause liver damage with chronic high-dose use. Ceylon cinnamon has negligible coumarin content. Monitor blood glucose if on diabetes medications - cinnamon has genuine glucose-lowering effects that can interact with medications.
Drug & supplement interactions
- Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about any supplements you take.
- Interactions can occur with prescription medications, blood thinners, and immunosuppressants.
- Herbal remedies can affect how the body absorbs or metabolises drugs.
- Check drugs.com interactions checker before starting.
Clinical source
Allen et al. 2013 - Ann Fam Med (PMID 24019277)This information is compiled from primary clinical literature and is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Read our full disclaimer.