High cholesterol treatment: Does cinnamon lower cholesterol?

Does taking cinnamon lower cholesterol levels?

Can cinnamon lower cholesterol? Most studies say no.

Currently, there's no definitive evidence that cinnamon lowers cholesterol.

In 2003, a small study suggested that cinnamon may help lower blood sugar levels in people who have diabetes. The same study also found that cinnamon had a similar effect on cholesterol levels, leading to modest reductions in low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or "bad," cholesterol, as well as triglycerides and total cholesterol. Since then, however, most research doesn't support the use of cinnamon as a treatment for either diabetes or high cholesterol.

To reduce your cholesterol, focus instead on lifestyle changes:

• Lose excess weight.
• Eat heart-healthy foods, such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables.
• Include physical activity in your daily routine.
• If you smoke, stop.

If necessary, your doctor may prescribe cholesterol-lowering medication.