From the Guidelines
Taking 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon daily may help reduce triglyceride levels, though results vary between individuals, and it is essential to combine it with other triglyceride-lowering strategies like reducing refined carbohydrates and sugars, increasing physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight, as recommended by the 2021 ACC expert consensus decision pathway on the management of ASCVD risk reduction in patients with persistent hypertriglyceridemia 1. This amount (approximately 2-3 grams) is considered safe for most people when used as a supplement for triglyceride management. For best results, use Ceylon cinnamon (true cinnamon) rather than the more common Cassia variety, as Ceylon contains less coumarin, a compound that may be harmful to the liver in high doses. Some key points to consider when managing triglyceride levels include:
- Initial treatment of patients with mild to moderate hypertriglyceridemia should include dietary counseling and weight loss in patients who are overweight or obese, as stated in the Endocrine Society's guidelines on diagnosis and management of hypertriglyceridemia 1.
- Regular endurance exercise training has been shown to mobilize body fat, assist with weight loss, and alter body composition, such as reducing abdominal adipose tissue in patients with hypertriglyceridemia, all of which may lead to improvements in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism 1.
- Combined physical activity and weight loss can result in up to a 20% reduction in triglycerides, with moderate physical activity and a 5% to 10% body weight reduction being the recommended approach 1. It is crucial to consult a healthcare provider before starting cinnamon supplementation, especially if you have significantly elevated triglycerides or are taking medications.
From the Research
Treatment of Hypertriglyceridemia
The provided studies discuss various treatment options for hypertriglyceridemia, including lifestyle modifications, medication, and dietary changes.
- Hypertriglyceridemia is a condition characterized by elevated triglyceride levels in the blood, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and pancreatitis 2, 3, 4.
- Lifestyle modifications, such as weight loss, reduced intake of rapidly metabolized carbohydrates, and increased physical activity, are effective in lowering triglyceride levels 3, 4.
- Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to be effective in reducing triglyceride levels, with daily doses of 2-4 g lowering TG levels 4, 5.
- Prescription formulations of omega-3 fatty acids, such as omega-3 fatty acid ethyl esters and icosapent ethyl, are approved for the treatment of severe hypertriglyceridemia 5.
- A formula diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and medium-chain triglycerides has been shown to rapidly and effectively reduce plasma triglyceride levels in patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia 6.
Dietary Changes
Dietary changes play a crucial role in the management of hypertriglyceridemia.
- Reducing carbohydrate intake, especially refined carbohydrates, and increasing fat and protein intake can help lower triglyceride levels 3.
- Increasing omega-3 fatty acid intake, either through dietary sources or supplements, can also help reduce triglyceride levels 4, 5.
- A diet rich in medium-chain triglycerides and omega-3 fatty acids has been shown to be effective in rapidly reducing plasma triglyceride levels 6.
Medication
Medications, such as statins, fibrates, and niacin, are often used to treat hypertriglyceridemia.
- Statins are commonly used to lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, but they can also reduce triglyceride levels 2, 3.
- Fibrates and niacin can be used to lower triglyceride levels, especially in patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia 2, 3.
- Omega-3 fatty acid prescription formulations are also available for the treatment of severe hypertriglyceridemia 5.
Note: There is no mention of cinnamon in the provided studies, therefore, there is no evidence to support the use of 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon for treating triglycerides.