What spices can help control high blood sugar?

A recent lab study revealed that the antioxidants in cloves, allspice, and cinnamon may inhibit the formation of bad-for-your-body high-blood-sugar compounds -- the very compounds that can lead to a host of diabetes-linked problems, like heart disease, nerve disorders, and eye and kidney damage. Other spices seemed to have a similar -- though weaker -- effect: sage, marjoram, tarragon, and rosemary. Cinnamon may not only inhibit high-blood-sugar damage but also help lower blood sugar. Of course, the real keys to blood sugar control are eating right, exercising, and keeping your weight down. But it's nice to know there are some little things you can do -- like cooking with low-cal, fat-free spices -- that may support your efforts.

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