You sprinkle it in your oatmeal, coffee, and baked goods, but did you know there are much more health benefits of cinnamon beyond flavor?
Welcome back to another article for better health information. Here I am to write about the most valuable spice that is Cinnamon. This has been prized for its medicinal properties for thousands of years. And while you have probably been using it to season your favourite foods. You may not realize the numerous health benefits it has.
Table of Contents
Ground cinnamon is composed of:
Ground cinnamon is composed of around 11% water, 81% carbohydrates (including 53% dietary fiber), 4% protein, and 1% fat. In a 100-gram reference amount, ground cinnamon is a rich source of calcium (100% of the Daily Value (DV)), iron (64% DV), and vitamin K (30% DV).
More About Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a spice that is made from the inner bark of trees scientifically known as Cinnamomum.
It has been used as an ingredient throughout history, dating back as far as Ancient Egypt. It used to be rare and valuable and was regarded as a gift fit for kings.
These days, cinnamon is cheap, available in every supermarket and found as an ingredient in various foods and recipes.
There are two main types of cinnamon :
- Ceylon cinnamon: Also known as “true” cinnamon.
- Cassia cinnamon: The more common variety today and what people generally refer to as “cinnamon.”
Cinnamon is made by cutting the stems of cinnamon trees. The inner bark is then extracted and the woody parts removed.
When it dries, it forms strips that curl into rolls, called cinnamon sticks. These sticks can be ground to form cinnamon powder.
The distinct smell and flavor of cinnamon are due to the oily part, which is very high in the compound cinnamaldehyde .
Scientists believe that this compound is responsible for most of the cinnamon’s powerful effects on health and metabolism.
Benefits Of Cinnamon
Now, modern science has confirmed what people have instinctively known for ages. And in this article, I will tell you the proven health benefits of Cinnamon. From helping your eyes, plumping your lips, protecting against cancer, helping manage HIV to cutting heart disease risk, and more.
1.Cuts the risk of heart disease
Cinnamon has been linked with a reduced risk of heart disease. The world’s most common cause of premature death,in people with type 2 diabetes. 1 gram of it per day has been shown to have beneficial effects on blood markers. It also reduces levels of total cholesterol, bad cholesterol, and triglycerides. While making sure your good cholesterol levels remain stable. More recently, a big review study concluded that a cinnamon dose of just 120 milligrams per day can have these effects. It also increased good cholesterol levels. In animal studies, cinnamon has been shown to reduce blood pressure. When combined, all these factors may drastically cut your risk of heart disease. Do you have a blood pressure problem? What are the reasons for your blood pressure to shoot up? Tell us down below in the comments section!
2.Protects Against Cancer
Cancer is a serious disease, characterized by the uncontrolled growth of cells. Cinnamon has been widely studied for its potential use in its prevention and treatment. Overall, the evidence is limited to test-tube experiments and animal studies, which suggest that its extracts may protect against cancer. It acts by reducing the growth of cancer cells and the formation of blood vessels in tumors. It also appears to be toxic to cancer cells, causing cell death. A study in mice with colon cancer revealed cinnamon to be a potent activator of detoxifying enzymes in the colon, protecting against further cancer growth. These findings were supported by test tube experiments, which showed that it activates protective antioxidant responses in human colon cells.
3.Helps treat the symptoms of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s
Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases are two neurological conditions that, for the moment, are incurable. An enormous part of treating them is through symptom management. And this can be boosted with the addition of cinnamon to your regular regime.It has been shown to help neurons and improve motor function in those suffering from these diseases. These contributions can help these patients continue their regular routines with far less impediment.A 2018 study called these benefits promising, noting cinnamon’s ability to inhibit compounds that are trademarks of Alzheimer’s disease.
4.Relieves Digestive Discomfort
Cinnamon extract has been used to alleviate gastrointestinal problems in both Eastern and Western medicine for years. It has been described as a carminative, renowned for its digestive, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, cinnamon bark oil is used for treating flatulence and digestive imbalance. It is believed that the warmth of this spice increases blood flow and improves blood oxygen levels to help fight off illness. To alleviate digestive symptoms, take it as part of a hot drink like tea.
5.Acts As A Natural Anaesthetic
Cinnamon can act as a pain reliever in certain cases. For a sinus headache, you can combine ½ teaspoon of it with water to make a paste and apply it on your forehead. Studies indicate that using a combination of cinnamon powder and honey or ginger can help treat arthritis pain. It is a good source of manganese which helps in building bones and other connective tissues. This makes it helpful for arthritis and osteoporosis and a mix of it with ginger when applied as a paste can reduce post-workout muscle soreness as well.
6.Cinnamon Adds Antibacterial Properties
Cinnamon has been proven to fight fungal, bacterial, and viral elements in foods. It is no surprise that in the Middle Ages when food spoilage was far more frequent due to lack of refrigeration, many recipes, both sweet and savory, were flavored with this spice. But these properties do not extend merely to the foods. Your body benefits from these properties as well. It can be used as part of a treatment for anything from lung problems to the common cold. This is because it helps clear up mucus and encourages circulation. So it’s useful in everything from a simple seasonal cough to bronchitis when used in tandem with other remedies. These benefits were highlighted in a research review, which pointed to evidence that cinnamon can inhibit bacteria by damaging cell membranes and altering their lipid profile.
7.May Help Manage HIV
Health Benefits Of Cinnamon includes antimicrobial properties extend to viruses indicating that it may help fight or manage HIV. Research shows that its extract may help fight the HIV virus by preventing the virus from entering cells. So, it could potentially contribute to controlling this disease. A study found that cinnamon derived substance could block viral entry, which the study notes are one of the most promising approaches to preventing HIV’s development into AIDS.
8.Plumps up lips
Thin-lipped ladies and gentlemen, rejoice. Cinnamon improves blood flow to the surface of your skin. This can actually cause your lips to plump up, no expensive injections necessary. Simply mix ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon with some Vaseline or a few drops of oil like vitamin E, coconut, or even olive oil. Now make a paste to apply to your lips. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes before rinsing it off, then pucker up.
9.Has anti-inflammatory properties
Inflammation is a vital part of your immune system’s response. But if left unchecked over time, known as chronic inflammation, it can make you unwell. Antioxidants help prevent inflammatory responses. If there will be any inflammation in the body, Cinnamon helps a lot. And since cinnamon contains high levels of flavonoids, which are plant proteins with powerful antioxidant activity, the spice possesses anti-inflammatory effects.
10.May ease polycystic ovary syndrome
Polycystic ovary syndrome or PCOS is a common condition that affects how a woman’s ovaries work. While the root cause of it is unknown. It is thought to be related to abnormal hormone levels and is associated with insulin resistance. A trial compared the effects of cinnamon with placebo over eight weeks. Significant improvements in insulin resistance were seen in those taking cinnamon, but not in those in the placebo group. A recent meta-analysis and systematic review suggested there were positive results regarding cinnamon and herbal supplements and PCOS parameters.
11.Cinnamon May manage the metabolic disease
Health Benefits Of Cinnamon includes appetite suppressants. It is perhaps no surprise that if cinnamon has possible beneficial effects on type 2 diabetes, it would also be helpful in the management of the metabolic disease. One review found that it could be effective in reducing complications, morbidity, and mortality in metabolic syndrome, including reducing blood pressure, plasma glucose, and obesity. It can also be used as an appetite suppressant to those with a sugar addiction, thanks to its naturally sweet taste. But while these possible results of cinnamon are certainly promising, more well-designed subject trials are necessary before true conclusions can be drawn.
12.Cinnamon includes anti-carcinogenic properties
Many superfoods are attributed with anti-carcinogenic properties. But it’s important not to jump from super food to superpower. Evidence suggests that the health benefits Of cinnamon may include anti-carcinogenic effects as well, although the research thus far is limited to animal studies. Experiments have demonstrated that its extract slows the growth of cancer cells and induces cancerous cell death. A research review highlighted preliminary evidence of cinnamon’s positive benefits on both lung cancer and stomach cancer.
13.A Powerful Antioxidant
Cinnamon has powerful antioxidant benefits. One randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial showed that it could improve the antioxidant status of overweight or obese individuals. A study showed that cinnamon essential oils had very powerful antioxidant activities in vitro. This helps to protect your body from damage from free radicals, reducing the risk of a lot of dangerous diseases. As you might already know, antioxidants are incredible for your health. To find out how eating foods rich in antioxidants every day would benefit your body.
14.Health Benefits Of Cinnamon may aid Your Eyes
Some studies have shown that cinnamon when used in conjunction with other herbs, may be useful in the treatment of eye disorders. Thia including conjunctivitis and dry eye. An evaluation of a product, which features cinnamon and turmeric, among other ingredients, found that the preparation could be useful in the treatment of these and other eye disorders. Now that we have told you all about the health benefits.
Side Effect of Cinnamon
The Cassia variety contains significant amounts of a compound called coumarin, which is believed to be harmful in large doses.
All cinnamon should have health benefits, but Cassia may cause problems in large doses due to the coumarin content.
Ceylon (“true” cinnamon) is much better in this regard, and studies show that it’s much lower in coumarin than the Cassia variety .
Unfortunately, most cinnamon found in supermarkets is the cheaper Cassia variety.
You may be able to find Ceylon in some health food stores, and there is a good selection on Amazon.
Conclusion
Cassia or Saigon cinnamon and Ceylon cinnamon are the two main varieties. Cassia, which is the darker-coloured, is the most common kind found in the U.S. It’s high in a blood-thinning component called coumarin, which can be toxic to the liver when taken in high doses. However, it’s also this component of Cassia that is thought to aid in blood-sugar control.
Ceylon cinnamon, on the other hand, is lighter in color and flavor, and doesn’t contain high amounts of coumarin.
Consuming normal amounts of cinnamon isn’t likely to have a big impact on your health. It’s not a good idea to eat a lot of it either.
Because cinnamon is unproven as a treatment, there isn’t a set dose. Some experts suggest 1/2 to 1 teaspoon (2-4 grams) of powder a day. Some studies have used between 1 grams and 6 grams of cinnamon. High doses might be toxic.
So how can you add Cinnamon to your diet? Well, you can use it in both sweet and savory dishes. It’s amazing in dishes like soups, stews, and on protein like meat, poultry, or tofu. You can also add it to smoothies, coffee, and desserts of all kinds. You can also brighten up fruit salad or yogurt with it as well. Ultimately, cinnamon can enhance any number of foods and drinks. What’s your favorite way of adding cinnamon to your diet? Is it in smoothies, coffee, soups, or desserts?
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