Is anyone taking cinnamon supplements to treat PCOS?
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I've never heard of taking cinnamon for PCOS but I might look into it... I'm happy to take anything to aid in my quest to help loose weight - obviously realising though it's so hard to do and won't go away quickly!
I am on metformin 2g daily and i think it's helped my weight loss. (but that might just be from the side effects!)
Here in the UK metformin is not licensed to 'treat' PCOS but is very widely used - how are things in the US regarding it's use?
It is also used as a diabetic med here, but a lot of doctors are using it to treat PCOS as well. I've been on it for several years. Amen to the side effects helping! LOL0 -
I have PCOS since I was a teen. But wasn't properly diagnosed til 2004. I've gained a massive amount of weight over the years and is now making strides to get healthy and get in shape. I am having a very hard time lossing little to no weight at all. Since this June I've been working out 4-5x a week (cardio and strength), sometimes twice a day. I eat a very low-carb, high protein diet and drink nothing but water and had only lost 13 pounds. That maybe a lot for some but I feel as hard as I'm pushing I should be lossing more. I know it's the PCOS that's holding me back, but I can't find a doctor that knows enough to help me get on track. So I've been on my own with research. I recently read that cinnamon help charge the metabolism and help with weight lost.
Is this true? How does it work? What's an effective amount? Pills or powder, which is better?
Thx in adv!
Speaking from experience here...............lifelong PCOS (my TOM has always been erratic and irregular since 9) and was not properly diagnosed until 2003, so 21 years until I was diagnosed.
I have found that tweaking 2 things may help you get the weight off and get the symptoms to improve or completely go away.
1. Do very little cardio, focus more on strength training. The reason for this is along with insulin resistance and the other hormone issues that come with PCOS is high cortisol. High cortisol will keep you from losing weight and doing a lot of cardio contributes to high cortisol.
2. Tweak your eating to be more High FAT, moderate on the protein and keep carbs low.
Also look into Vitex and Black Cohosh for treating PCOS symptoms. I have ordered the supplements, but have not received them yet.0 -
I have PCOS too. Have you seen an endocrinologist? My GP and OB/GYN both referred me to one for the PCOS.
I see one every four months and he has me on Glucophage/Metformin. Once you get past learning what you can eat to prevent side effects and your hormone levels blanace out, it's much easier for the weight to come off.
Hi,
Forgive my ignorance but what's a Endocrinologist??
Nevermind. I looked it up ;o) to answer you question: no. Didn't know much about diabetes. But thx!
No, I d on't take it for diabetes (although they treat that as well). The metformin (althought it can be a diabetic med) is used to help the insulin resistance. Endocrinologists basically specialize in the adrenal system, hormones, metabolism, and glands, all which are affected by the PCOS. They go a bit more in depth than a family practioner or OB/GYN. Mine has all of my hormones balanced out now. Look into it, it has helped me a ton!
Ahhh, this may explain why I have had little to no success with GYN's and PCOS. I will mos def take your advise and look in to an Endo Doc. Thx so much!0 -
I have PCOS too. Have you seen an endocrinologist? My GP and OB/GYN both referred me to one for the PCOS.
I see one every four months and he has me on Glucophage/Metformin. Once you get past learning what you can eat to prevent side effects and your hormone levels blanace out, it's much easier for the weight to come off.
Hi,
Forgive my ignorance but what's a Endocrinologist??
Nevermind. I looked it up ;o) to answer you question: no. Didn't know much about diabetes. But thx!
No, I d on't take it for diabetes (although they treat that as well). The metformin (althought it can be a diabetic med) is used to help the insulin resistance. Endocrinologists basically specialize in the adrenal system, hormones, metabolism, and glands, all which are affected by the PCOS. They go a bit more in depth than a family practioner or OB/GYN. Mine has all of my hormones balanced out now. Look into it, it has helped me a ton!
Ahhh, this may explain why I have had little to no success with GYN's and PCOS. I will mos def take your advise and look in to an Endo Doc. Thx so much!
...Make me wonder why my GYN never meantioned seeing an Endo Doctor tho..hmmm???0 -
Hello, I also have PCOS and I just saw that someone told you to see an endocrinologist and they have helped me. Also because you have PCOS your primary care doctor can refer you to an Dietitian. That also help me be accountable for what I was eating. hope this helps good luck.0
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From what i have seen from going from Doctor to Doctor until I found one that would listen to me is that most of the OB/GYN's feel that PCOS is more of a reproductive issue than a endocrine issue. Therefore if you don't press the issue of going to see an Endocrinologist they will never refer you.
I was blessed once I got diagnosed that my GYN referred me over to a Reproductive Endocrinologist - and she was heavy into treating naturally - not with birth control pills and Metformin. She told me that these 2 drugs end up causing far more issues in the long run.
I believe that it is the lack of understanding that the 2 systems are directly tied together as to why so many women and girls don't get referred.0 -
Drugs can be used off label for things such as this and metformin is widely used here for PCOS. I think cinnamon is supposed to lower blood sugar, but I visit a diabetic forum and most people there say the difference in their readings is so slight, it's hardly worth the effort. They get a better dip in their blood sugar by drinking a glass of wine before bed.
I believe Cinnamon, just like any herb/spice and natural supplement, is meant to be used over a long period of time to show the biggest effects.
Sometimes herbs/spices and natural supplements do not show immediate or big results right away, so people think they don't work or aren't worth it. Sometimes it can take up to 6 weeks to experience the effects of taking a natural supplement. 0 -
http://theprimalparent.com/2011/07/07/an-unconventional-approach-to-pcos-polycystic-ovarian-syndrome/
I have heard that cinnamon is good for blood sugar control. But I haven't done any research on it...yet.0 -
This is slightly off topic but I saw that you are doing the low carb diet, you may want to look into the low glycemic index for Insulin Resistance. But its a lifestyle not a weight loss choice if you have PCOS. I know, I am right there with you. Thanks for the heads up on the cinnamon supplements. I knew it was used for folks with diabetes, I should have thought about it for my PCOS as well!0
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I just wanted to say, Metformin: Yuck!
Good luck with your weight loss0 -
I just wanted to say, Metformin: Yuck!
Metformin was the worst. I only took it for a few months. Threw up CONSTANTLY. I hated it. I've been taking cinnamon for the last few months and it has helped TREMENDOUSLY. As far as PCOS I was diagnosed with it, but I'm starting to think I was just insulin resistant. Regardless, I literally have no sugar craving any more. I didn't realize how much I was craving and thinking about food until the cravings and thoughts stopped...which after starting cinnamon and chromium they stopped within a day. Also...I was working out like a fiend...literally hours a day and not losing any weight. After starting the cinnamon the weight has started to come off. (I think this is tied into the insulin resistance, which tends to go hand in hand with pcos) Cinnamon to me has been a godsend. I take it in pill form or sprinkle the fresh stuff on my coffee. At my highest (before cinnamon) I was around 250. I've been able to drop about 40 lbs. Still working on another 60 or so.0 -
I have PCOS too. Have you seen an endocrinologist? My GP and OB/GYN both referred me to one for the PCOS.
I see one every four months and he has me on Glucophage/Metformin. Once you get past learning what you can eat to prevent side effects and your hormone levels blanace out, it's much easier for the weight to come off.
Hi,
Forgive my ignorance but what's a Endocrinologist??
Nevermind. I looked it up ;o) to answer you question: no. Didn't know much about diabetes. But thx!
No, I d on't take it for diabetes (although they treat that as well). The metformin (althought it can be a diabetic med) is used to help the insulin resistance. Endocrinologists basically specialize in the adrenal system, hormones, metabolism, and glands, all which are affected by the PCOS. They go a bit more in depth than a family practioner or OB/GYN. Mine has all of my hormones balanced out now. Look into it, it has helped me a ton!
Ahhh, this may explain why I have had little to no success with GYN's and PCOS. I will mos def take your advise and look in to an Endo Doc. Thx so much!
...Make me wonder why my GYN never meantioned seeing an Endo Doctor tho..hmmm???
Not positive, but some just like to try to fix on on their own. My OB/GYN is a fertility specialist so his colleague (the endocrinologist) does all the hormone/gland testing more in depth for him. A few other people I know have gone to one also and it has helped a lot. My endo is the one who also diagnosed a thyroid problem. Good luck!0 -
I just wanted to say, Metformin: Yuck!
Metformin was the worst. I only took it for a few months. Threw up CONSTANTLY. I hated it. I've been taking cinnamon for the last few months and it has helped TREMENDOUSLY. As far as PCOS I was diagnosed with it, but I'm starting to think I was just insulin resistant. Regardless, I literally have no sugar craving any more. I didn't realize how much I was craving and thinking about food until the cravings and thoughts stopped...which after starting cinnamon and chromium they stopped within a day. Also...I was working out like a fiend...literally hours a day and not losing any weight. After starting the cinnamon the weight has started to come off. (I think this is tied into the insulin resistance, which tends to go hand in hand with pcos) Cinnamon to me has been a godsend. I take it in pill form or sprinkle the fresh stuff on my coffee. At my highest (before cinnamon) I was around 250. I've been able to drop about 40 lbs. Still working on another 60 or so.
Were you allergic to the Metformin? I don't like the side effects, but I've never thrown up from it. What did help me with the upset tummy though..I am on 1000mg 2x a day, and I asked if I could take both at the same time at night. My doc ok'd it and I take them right before bed. I don't feel the side effects very bad at all now.0 -
I too have PCOS and have had it for over 15 years but was not diagnosed until 5 years ago. I have tried many off-label drugs with horrible side effects to my liver and kidneys and am back to Metformin 1500mg, I am supposed to take 2000mg but the nausea is hard to fight at 1500mg. I am going to add in the cinnamon and see if that helps to compensate for the extra 500mg I should be taking. Along with this, does anyone have any specific diet restrictions like gluten-free or dairy-free that has helped them? I can't shed the pounds and am losing motivation so I am glad that I found this post because there is so little information surrounding PCOS!0
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I too have PCOS and have had it for over 15 years but was not diagnosed until 5 years ago. I have tried many off-label drugs with horrible side effects to my liver and kidneys and am back to Metformin 1500mg, I am supposed to take 2000mg but the nausea is hard to fight at 1500mg. I am going to add in the cinnamon and see if that helps to compensate for the extra 500mg I should be taking. Along with this, does anyone have any specific diet restrictions like gluten-free or dairy-free that has helped them? I can't shed the pounds and am losing motivation so I am glad that I found this post because there is so little information surrounding PCOS!
Yes, In my research someone shared their PCOS diet with. I gotta dig around my inbox and post it for you....0 -
I too have PCOS and have had it for over 15 years but was not diagnosed until 5 years ago. I have tried many off-label drugs with horrible side effects to my liver and kidneys and am back to Metformin 1500mg, I am supposed to take 2000mg but the nausea is hard to fight at 1500mg. I am going to add in the cinnamon and see if that helps to compensate for the extra 500mg I should be taking. Along with this, does anyone have any specific diet restrictions like gluten-free or dairy-free that has helped them? I can't shed the pounds and am losing motivation so I am glad that I found this post because there is so little information surrounding PCOS!
I'm lactose intolerant so I don't eat alot of dairy (besides yogurt and cheese), but with the metformin I can no longer eat iceberg lettuce! I can eat romaine, leaf, spinach etc, but iceberg makes me sick. Of course anything super greasy will have bad effects as well. It kind of teaches you how you are 'supposed' to eat, low fat, high protein. Carbs don't bother me so much, but my sugar levels have never been high or low. I'm a carb craver something fierce, and even on weight watchers that didn't hinder my loss once all of my levels were evened out.
My endo sends me for bloodwork every 3-4 months and really keeps an eye on everything and adjusts meds as needed based on the hormone and sugar, etc levels.0 -
Thx for a the encouragement!!
For those of you who are looking for a PCOS diet /regiment to follow you may want to read a post by sammybunny711: My PCOS Story. She has successfully lost 40 lbs. In her post she listed a few do's and dont and even a few links that I have found to be very helpful.
Best wishes to everyone and feel free to add me!! I could use the inspiration!!0 -
I believe Cinnamon, just like any herb/spice and natural supplement, is meant to be used over a long period of time to show the biggest effects. Sometimes herbs/spices and natural supplements do not show immediate or big results right away, so people think they don't work or aren't worth it. Sometimes it can take up to 6 weeks to experience the effects of taking a natural supplement.
My mom, a type II diabetic, discovered that cinnamon lowered her blood sugar completely on her own, years and years before it was available in capsule form or an internet search would turn up any information on the subject. She noticed that cinnamon apples for dinner made her feel better and always made for an unusually low fasting blood glucose the following morning. So yeah, you may see immediate results. That doesn't necessarily mean you will, though. I take it and it may help with my carb cravings or may not. Hard to tell, but then I don't have any of the medical problems it's supposed to alleviate.
Adams was her medicinal brand of choice, by the way. She was convinced that it was much stronger than McCormick.0 -
I too have PCOS and have had it for over 15 years but was not diagnosed until 5 years ago. I have tried many off-label drugs with horrible side effects to my liver and kidneys and am back to Metformin 1500mg, I am supposed to take 2000mg but the nausea is hard to fight at 1500mg. I am going to add in the cinnamon and see if that helps to compensate for the extra 500mg I should be taking. Along with this, does anyone have any specific diet restrictions like gluten-free or dairy-free that has helped them? I can't shed the pounds and am losing motivation so I am glad that I found this post because there is so little information surrounding PCOS!
I'm lactose intolerant so I don't eat alot of dairy (besides yogurt and cheese), but with the metformin I can no longer eat iceberg lettuce! I can eat romaine, leaf, spinach etc, but iceberg makes me sick. Of course anything super greasy will have bad effects as well. It kind of teaches you how you are 'supposed' to eat, low fat, high protein. Carbs don't bother me so much, but my sugar levels have never been high or low. I'm a carb craver something fierce, and even on weight watchers that didn't hinder my loss once all of my levels were evened out.
My endo sends me for bloodwork every 3-4 months and really keeps an eye on everything and adjusts meds as needed based on the hormone and sugar, etc levels.
Craving carbs is a sign of either addiction or intolerance. If you are PCOS, then it is imperative to keep good health to reduce carb intake pretty drastically.
And with PCOS even if you don't currently have insulin resistance issues, it is recommended to eat high fat, moderate protein and low carb. Fat is not the enemy here.
Eating fat will level out your hormones as it is imperative to have adequate fat intake so that the hypothalamus and the pituitary will secrete the proper amount of hormones when necessary as the monthly cycle goes through its phases.
Metformin is not as much of a helper as they claim it to be. My doctor has recently recommended to me Vitex and Black Cohosh to control and reduce symptoms of PCOS.
If anyone wants more information about Vitex and Black Cohosh - please message me and I will send you the information.0 -
I too have PCOS and have had it for over 15 years but was not diagnosed until 5 years ago. I have tried many off-label drugs with horrible side effects to my liver and kidneys and am back to Metformin 1500mg, I am supposed to take 2000mg but the nausea is hard to fight at 1500mg. I am going to add in the cinnamon and see if that helps to compensate for the extra 500mg I should be taking. Along with this, does anyone have any specific diet restrictions like gluten-free or dairy-free that has helped them? I can't shed the pounds and am losing motivation so I am glad that I found this post because there is so little information surrounding PCOS!
I'm lactose intolerant so I don't eat alot of dairy (besides yogurt and cheese), but with the metformin I can no longer eat iceberg lettuce! I can eat romaine, leaf, spinach etc, but iceberg makes me sick. Of course anything super greasy will have bad effects as well. It kind of teaches you how you are 'supposed' to eat, low fat, high protein. Carbs don't bother me so much, but my sugar levels have never been high or low. I'm a carb craver something fierce, and even on weight watchers that didn't hinder my loss once all of my levels were evened out.
My endo sends me for bloodwork every 3-4 months and really keeps an eye on everything and adjusts meds as needed based on the hormone and sugar, etc levels.
Craving carbs is a sign of either addiction or intolerance. If you are PCOS, then it is imperative to keep good health to reduce carb intake pretty drastically.
And with PCOS even if you don't currently have insulin resistance issues, it is recommended to eat high fat, moderate protein and low carb. Fat is not the enemy here.
Eating fat will level out your hormones as it is imperative to have adequate fat intake so that the hypothalamus and the pituitary will secrete the proper amount of hormones when necessary as the monthly cycle goes through its phases.
Metformin is not as much of a helper as they claim it to be. My doctor has recently recommended to me Vitex and Black Cohosh to control and reduce symptoms of PCOS.
If anyone wants more information about Vitex and Black Cohosh - please message me and I will send you the information.
Thank you for the information, but what I've been doing has been working for me. It might not work for anyone else, but it does for me. My doc does keep a strict eye on my blood and levels and definitely alerts me if something seems strange. Metformin does help me.
I appreciate your concern, but I'm not addicted to carbs, nor am I intolerant.
Original poster, I hope that you find a doctor that can help you. If you don't mind me asking, what state are you in?0
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