While a fragrant spice often enjoyed in coffee and lattes, current research indicates that cardamom does not significantly lower blood sugar levels in healthy adults or those with metabolic conditions, despite popular claims.
Cardamom has become a familiar addition to coffee and lattes, especially across the Arab world, where its warm aroma is often associated with comfort and hospitality. But the idea that a sprinkle of the spice can meaningfully lower blood sugar is not supported by the evidence currently available.
According to a review highlighted by Verywell Health, the research most often cited in support of cardamom’s possible metabolic benefits involved far larger amounts than most people put into a drink. A 2022 meta-analysis covering six studies and 410 participants found that 3 grams a day was linked with lower insulin resistance over eight weeks to three months, but it did not significantly reduce fasting blood sugar. By comparison, the amount usually stirred into a coffee or latte is closer to a quarter of a teaspoon, or about 0.5 grams.
Even studies using supplement-style doses have found limited effects on blood glucose itself. In trials cited in the report, people taking 3 grams a day for three months saw some improvements in fasting insulin and blood fats, but fasting blood sugar changes were not statistically significant. Much of the research has also focused on people with existing metabolic conditions, including type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, so the findings cannot simply be applied to healthy adults.
That distinction matters because blood sugar is influenced by many factors. The Mayo Clinic notes that hyperglycaemia, or high blood sugar, can be affected by food choices, activity, illness and medication, while hypoglycaemia, or low blood sugar, has its own separate causes and symptoms. In other words, a drink’s overall effect depends far more on its full ingredient list than on one fragrant spice.
That is especially true for café-style cardamom lattes, which often contain steamed milk, flavoured syrups or other added sugars. If a mix or powder is used, it may include further ingredients that affect blood sugar. The most sensible conclusion, the report suggests, is that cardamom can be enjoyed for its flavour, but not relied on as a blood sugar treatment.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
