What Is Cinnulin PF?

Cinnulin PF is a dietary supplement that contains an extract of the cinnamon variety known as Cinnamomum burmannii or Cinnamomum cassia 38. According to a review published in the "Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology" in 2010, whole cinnamon has compounds that may help prevent or treat Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, cancer, stroke and Alzheimer's disease 2. However, whole cinnamon contains potentially toxic substances. Cinnulin PF manufacturers claim their product lacks these toxins. Do not use Cinnulin PF until you've spoken to your doctor.

Cinnulin PF Ingredients

A typical one-capsule serving of Cinnulin PF contains 150 milligrams of a water-soluble Cinnamomum burmannii extract that, according to the manufacturers, has been filtered to include only the type-A polymers associated with the benefits linked to whole cinnamon 38.

What the Research Says

In 2006, a study published in the "Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition" reported that men and women who have metabolic syndrome -- a term used to describe people who have a high risk of conditions like heart disease, diabetes and stroke -- are less likely to develop chronic medical problems if they are supplementing with Cinnulin PF 5. Another 2006 study from the "European Journal of Clinical Investigation" found that cinnamon extracts similar to Cinnulin PF could help lower the blood glucose levels of people with Type 2 diabetes 37.

Things to Consider

Cinnulin PF supplements have not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and their contents have not been verified for purity or effectiveness. Nursing or pregnant women and children should not take Cinnulin PF. While manufacturers report that there are no known significant side effects associated with taking Cinnulin PF, people who are using medications for low blood sugar should avoid any form of cinnamon extract since it may cause them to develop hypoglycemia 38. In addition, taking Cinnulin PF at the same time as other supplements containing fenugreek, bitter melon, chromium, garlic or Panax ginseng may also cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar.

Expert Recommendations

Despite the initially positive study results, it's best not to attempt to use Cinnulin PF to treat or prevent any medical condition until additional clinical studies are conducted, advised scientists in a 2013 "Annals of Family Medicine" review 1. It remains unknown what specific dosage ranges are safe for different ages, genders and disorders, and there is no evidence showing that long-term supplementation is problem-free. Manufacturers urge customers to only use Cinnulin PF under a doctor's direction.