Diabetes type 2 is a lifelong condition, where a patient’s blood sugar becomes too high.
It’s caused by the pancreas not producing enough of the hormone insulin, or the body doesn’t react properly to insulin.
Without enough insulin, sugar remains in the blood, and isn’t converted into energy.
But, you could reverse type 2 diabetes by eating more cinnamon, according to nutritionist Dr Josh Axe.
“Cinnamon has the ability to lower blood sugar levels and improve your sensitivity to insulin,” he said.
“To take advantage of the many health benefits of cinnamon, add one teaspoon to food, smoothies or tea.
“You can also take one to two drops of cinnamon essential oil internally by adding it to food or tea, or combine three drops of cinnamon oil with half a teaspoon of coconut oil and massage it into your wrists and abdomen.”
Axe’s comments came after a US study found cinnamon was linked to a decrease in plasma glucose levels and ‘bad’ cholesterol.
You could also reverse type 2 diabetes by eating more clean proteins, and foods with a low glycemic load, the nutritionist said.
Foods rich in fibre, magnesium and chromium could also help to lower blood sugar, he said.
That includes broccoli, raw cheese, green beans, avocados, flaxseeds and yogurt.
Patients should also consider cutting back on refined sugars, alcohol and hydrogenated oils, he added.
Diabetes symptoms can include unexplained weight loss and a decrease in muscle bulk, the NHS said.
The condition can cause serious, long-term health problems, including blindness, kidney failure and lower limb amputation.
You could prevent diabetes by eating a healthy, balanced diet, and by losing weight if you’re overweight, it added.
About 3.8 million people in England over 16 have diabetes, according to Public Health England.