Cinnamon: 5 Cinnamon Health Benefits

benefits of cinnamon

Health Benefits of Cinnamon 101

Cinnamon is amazingly tasty, right? But what are some of the actual health benefits of cinnamon? Did you know this superfood can help you in so many ways? Check out just 5 below!

Do you know the health benefits of cinnamon?

What’s the first thing that comes to your mind when I say cinnamon?

That delicious cinnamon roll that just ruined your diet? 🙂

Or the cinnamon challenge that so many people seemed so eager to try? Cinnamon is commonly associated with desserts because of its sweet and mildly spicy taste. In the powdered form, it is versatile and can be added to almost anything. But, this sweet and pungent spice offers more than just a unique taste.

Cinnamon is also widely regarded for its health benefits. Surprised? Studies have found that cinnamon can help treat serious diseases like diabetes and even Alzheimer’s. Some of the best reasons to eat cinnamon are:

5 Health Benefits Of Cinnamon1. Fights Diabetes

Diabetes has become a serious problem with it being responsible for around 5 million deaths annually. Type 2 diabetes accounts for 90% of those deaths. Cinnamon has been found to regulate, and in particular cases, completely rid people of type 2 diabetes. Regularly consuming cinnamon can reduce blood sugar levels by decreasing insulin resistance.

It also slows down the absorption of sugar into your bloodstream after a heavy meal.

This means your body is more resistant to type 2 diabetes. With diabetes increasing the risk of contracting other diseases, it is essential to try and keep it in check. Sprinkling cinnamon in your bowl of oats in the morning is an easy way of incorporating it into your meals without really noticing it.

2. Antibacterial Properties

Cinnamon is not just antibacterial, it is also antifungal. This makes it an excellent agent for preserving food. These properties extend beyond food as well. Cinnamon can help soothe everything from lung infections to the common cold. It is also an essential ingredient in Ayurveda.

It is believed that cinnamon plays a role in clearing mucus and improving circulation. This means that even bronchitis can be treated with a little cinnamon. Studies have found cinnamon to be effective against viruses. Everything from a standard infection to more severe diseases can be combated with a daily dose of cinnamon.

3. Lowers Cholesterol

Cinnamon, when combined with honey, has been found to help people lose weight. But did you know it is also effective against cholesterol? LDL or bad cholesterol is responsible for a number of cardiovascular conditions. Clogged and hardened arteries and increased blood pressure, if left unchecked, lead to heart failure.

Cinnamon helps to reduce the amount of LDL in your bloodstream while simultaneously increasing HDL, your good cholesterol. The good news is that you don’t need massive doses of cinnamon to help with this. Even 3/4th of a spoon of cinnamon a day can contribute to reduced bad cholesterol levels.

4. Anti-Inflammatory Properties

5 Health Benefits Of Cinnamon 2Studies have shown that cinnamon can help reduce inflammation. Because of its antibacterial and antioxidant properties, cinnamon is an effective tool to reduce inflammation. Simply adding small doses of cinnamon to your diet can help to reduce systemic inflammation, chronic disease, and cellular damage.

Cinnamaldehyde present in cinnamon affects inflammatory genes. It also prevents blood platelets from clumping together, which prevents heart disease and other inflammatory diseases. It is also a useful tool to prevent uninhibited cell growth, a natural cancer deterrent.

5. Helps Fight Neuro-Degenerative Diseases

Improper brain cell functioning is caused by the loss of structure in brain cells.

Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease are two of the most common types of these diseases. Substances present in cinnamon have been found to nullify these effects. A protein named Tau is commonly found in neurons in the central nervous system. When it is found at high levels in the brain, it is said to lead to Alzheimer’s disease.

Cinnamon prevents this from happening. Studies have shown that cinnamon protects neurons, indirectly improving motor functioning.

A few tips to help you get as much cinnamon as you can:

  • Grind cinnamon sticks into powder or buy the pre-made variant.
  • Cinnamon is a versatile spice and can be added to various desserts or savory dishes. It works well in dry rubs for red meats or as a dressing for salads and other vegetable dishes.
  • It makes a perfect addition to your bowl of cereal, oats, smoothies, or any other cold meal. Be creative and the possibilities will be endless.

Wrap-Up

Wow! These health benefits of cinnamon are why we must include this wonder ingredient in our dishes.

If you, or someone you know, is suffering from any of these problems, you’ll understand just how valuable this commonly available spice is. Make sure to include cinnamon in your daily diet and enjoy all these wonderful benefits.

Being a regular practitioner and adviser of everything related to health, fitness and yoga, I also have begun to write and contribute to this knowledge ecosystem. I strongly believe that the organic food you find in your pantry provide the best benefits for good health. Follow me for my best ideas and solutions: Twitter Facebook.
Vineetha Reddy
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