Effects of cinnamon supplementation on antioxidant status and serum lipids in women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

BACKGROUND

The objectives of study were to investigate the effects of cinnamon supplementation on antioxidant status and serum lipids in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

METHODS

This double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted on 84 overweight or obese PCOS patients; aged 20-38 years. Subjects in cinnamon (n = 42) and placebo (n = 42) groups were given 3 cinnamon capsules (each one contained 500 mg cinnamon) or placebo daily for 8 weeks. Fasting blood samples, anthropometric measurements and dietary intake data were gathered at the beginning and at the end of the study. Independent t test, paired t test and analysis of covariance were used to analyze of data.

RESULTS

Cinnamon significantly increased serum total antioxidant capacity (P = 0.005). Malondialdehyde was significantly decreased compared with placebo (P = 0.014). Cinnamon supplementation significantly improved serum level of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (all P < 0.05). No significant effect was detected on serum triglyceride level.

CONCLUSIONS

Cinnamon supplementation improved antioxidant status and serum lipid profile in women with PCOS and may be applicable for reducing PCOS risk factors.