The 12-week, placebo-controlled, double-blind study carried out by the Ohio Research Group, involved 21 pre-diabetic men and women with an average age of 46 years. They continued to follow their usual diet and exercise pattern while also taking 250mg of Cinnulin PF, a 20:1 water extract of cinnamon, or a placebo twice daily.
The researchers noticed "statistically significant" decreases in fasting blood glucose levels and "marked improvements in insulin sensitivity" with Cinnulin PF supplementation. No significant changes in clinical blood chemistries were observed.
"Preliminary data supports the efficacy of Cinnulin PF supplementation on blood sugar regulation in pre-diabetic men and women," said Dr Tim Ziegenfuss, CEO of Ohio Research Group.
The study is slated for publication in the near future.
Cinnamon is believed to promote glucose metabolism and support healthy cholesterol levels in type 2 diabetes sufferers, but there have been toxicity concerns over consistent consumption or high doses of whole cinnamon or fat-soluble extracts.
According to Integrity, Cinnulin PF contains standardized quantities of the active components of cinnamon, two trimers and one tetramer classified as double-linked type-A polymers, but not the potentially harmful compounds.
Cinnulin PF is claimed to be the only cinnamon extract standardized for these compounds.
Dr Ziegenfuss said: "The safety profile on Cinnulin PF appears to be excellent and no adverse events were reported during the duration of the study."
This summer Integrity announced that company growth had necessitation a 6,500 square foot expansion in office space.
"Our business continues to increase and the expansion is needed not only to keep up with ongoing growth but to position our company for future development," said VP Tim Romero.