The effect of cinnamon extract on insulin resistance parameters in polycystic ovary syndrome: a pilot study

Fertil Steril. 2007 Jul;88(1):240-3. doi: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2006.11.082. Epub 2007 Feb 12.

Abstract

Cinnamon extract has been shown to reduce insulin resistance in in vitro and in vivo studies by increasing phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase activity in the insulin signaling pathway and thus potentiating insulin action. Fifteen women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) were randomized to daily oral cinnamon and placebo for 8 weeks. Comparisons of post-treatment to baseline insulin sensitivity indices using fasting and 2-hour oral glucose tolerance tests showed significant reductions in insulin resistance in the cinnamon group but not in the placebo group. A larger trial is needed to confirm the findings of this pilot study and to evaluate the effect of cinnamon extract on menstrual cyclicity.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cinnamomum zeylanicum*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Insulin Resistance / physiology*
  • Pilot Projects
  • Plant Extracts / therapeutic use
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / blood
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / drug therapy*

Substances

  • Plant Extracts