Cinnamon for diabetic pets
Can this common spice help your
diabetic dog or cat?
MetPet.com Staff Writer
 An
accidental discovery at the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) found that 1/2
teaspoon of powdered cinnamon a day can significantly reduce blood sugar levels
in humans suffering from Type II Diabetes. The significant reduction also occurred when using a
cinnamon stick as a stirrer and soaking it in tea.
The researchers were surprised to find that apple pie, expected to aggravate
blood sugar levels was found to decrease them due to the cinnamon commonly found
in the recipe. The active ingredient
is a polyphenol called MHCP which apparently mimics insulin and works with it to
improve blood sugar regulation. In Type II diabetics, it is possible that
cells' insulin receptors are activated making them more responsive to insulin
which allows them to process sugar.
In addition to the effects on blood sugar, experiments with cinnamon found
promising results for reducing 'bad' cholesterol and damaging free radicals.
MHCP was found in cinnamon sticks, powdered cinnamon but not in cinnamon oil.
Diabetic dogs and Cats
Along with other 'diseases of affluence' such as obesity and lack of vigorous
exercise, diabetes is increasingly found in our pet cats and dogs. Left
untreated, it can lead to blindness, poor circulation, amputation and a host of
other degenerative conditions.
It is possible that small quantities of cinnamon, less than 1/2 teaspoon,
added to their regular diet may help dogs and cats with diabetes as well.
Since 1/2 teaspoon was the human dosage used in the study, a much smaller amount
would be reasonable for your much smaller pet. Always ask your veterinarian before making changes to your pet's diet.
Related Information:
Diabetes Mellitus in Cats
Related Resources:
USDA Cinnamon,
Glucose and Diabetes
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