The Surprising Health Benefits of Cinnamon
Think Cinnamon, think delicacies. Cinnamon is a multi-purpose spice that’s used in more ways than one. Be it kitchen, aromatherapy, flavoured milkshakes, cakes & pies and even spiritual rituals. Isn’t it versatile?
The inviting aroma and warm yet sweet flavour of this fragrant spice are alluring enough to put it to good use. Did you know that Cinnamon is native to Sri Lanka, formerly known as Ceylon, the neighbouring Myanmar and Malabar Coast of India and is cultivated in the West Indies and South America? This popular spice comprises the dried inner bark of Cinnamon trees and comes in brown colour.
1. May lower cholesterol and blood pressure
Cinnamon supplements can be beneficial for heart health by improving blood circulation and blood pressure while decreasing blood lipid levels such as LDL, and cholesterol. High blood pressure and high blood fat levels can up your risk factor for cardiac diseases. Ergo, consuming cinnamon supplements can assist in lowering cardiovascular risk.
2. Regulates Blood Sugar Levels
Cinnamon can benefit individuals affected by higher blood sugar levels, not to forget Type-2 diabetics. Research shows that cinnamon aids in reducing blood sugar levels by slowing the glucose release into the bloodstream. It improves glucose uptake and elevating the body’s sensitivity to insulin.
3. Contains Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties
The multiple benefits of Cinnamon are massively associated with the high concentration of protective plant compounds, such as coumarin, cinnamic acid, cinnamaldehyde and eugenol. These substances are believed to have strong anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-diabetic properties.
How to Consume Cinnamon
Cinnamon can be taken as a spice in regular food items or even as a supplement. Cinnamon supplements are typically consumed in split doses during the day and with or without food.
A simple way to alleviate your cinnamon intake is to spruce up your meals, beverages and snacks with it. Cinnamon makes a great addition to baked dishes, oatmeal, smoothies, soups and chia pudding for a boosted flavour.
Dosage
The quantity of cinnamon usually taken in food is considered safe. Research shows that supplementing with cassia cinnamon is considered safe in doses of one to two grams per day for over three months. It is safe to consume in doses of three to six grams for about six weeks.
Side Effects
As they say, excess of everything is unhealthy. Don’t consume too much cinnamon. It is harmless but taking a high dosage of Cassia Cinnamon could adversely affect your well-being because it contains high levels of coumarin. Cinnamon is usually considered safe to consume unless, of course, an individual has an allergy to the spice. Avoid high-dose cinnamon supplements or they could cause the following side effects:
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Abdominal uneasiness
- Allergic Reactions
- Heartburn
- Diarrhea
- Headache
Cinnamon is the most loved culinary spice that instils new life into everything it comes in contact with, like the Midas Touch.
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