6 Amazing Reasons to Love Cinnamon

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Cinnamon is considered to be one feel-good foods. It scent reminds us of fall and even brings back memories of apple pies with and holidays. So you should be thrilled to hear the news about its health benefits.

Below are 6 Amazing health benefits of cinnamon!

6 Amazing Reasons to Love Cinnamon
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Health Benefits

1. Cinnamon May Help Protect Against Cancer

Cancer is a disease which is characterized by uncontrolled growth of cells. It has been widely studied for its use in cancer treatment and prevention.

Cinnamon helps reduce the the formation of blood vessels in tumors, growth of cancer cells and seems to be toxic to cancer cells, causing cell death.

2. Fights Diabetes

Cinnamon is known for its anti-diabetic effect. It helps in lowering blood sugar levels and improve sensitivity to the hormone insulin, which is the essential hormone needed for keeping blood sugar levels balanced.

3. Full of Antioxidants

Antioxidants helps in protecting the body from oxidative damage that are caused by free radicals. Cinnamon is filled with powerful antioxidants, such as polyphenols.

A study that conducted which compared the antioxidant activity of 26 spices,showed cinnamon wound as the winner, even outranking foods such as oregano and garlic. It is considered to be so effective and powerful that it can be used as a natural food preservative.

4. Fight Fungal and Bacterial Infections

Cinnamon contains cinnamaldehyde, its main active component which help fight various kinds of infection. Cinnamon oil has been confirmed to effectively treat respiratory tract infections that are caused by fungi.

It can also help inhibit the growth of some bacteria, including Salmonella and Listeria. The anti-microbial effects of cinnamon can also reduce bad breath and help prevent tooth decay.

5. Fight Allergies

Studies have shown that those experiencing allergies can find remedy due to the benefits of cinnamon’s compounds. It has been shown to help in fighting common allergy symptoms because it fights histamine reactions and reduces inflammation in the body.

Cinnamon also contains immune boosting abilities and is also known to be beneficial for digestive health by helping to cut down on auto-immune reactions after consumption of common allergen foods.

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6. Regulates Blood Sugar

Research found that antioxidant-rich cinnamon extract help reduce the risk factors linked with heart disease and diabetes.

A study conducted on 22 obese volunteers with prediabetes that were divided randomly into two groups. The first group was given a placebo, while the other a dose of dried water-soluble cinnamon extract, that were given twice a day, along with their usual diets.

The blood samples collected at the beginning and after the study, revealed that the cinnamon extract help improved the antioxidant status and helped reduce blood sugar levels.

What Kind of Cinnamon Should You Use?

Cinnamomum cassia, or Chinese cinnamon, has a similar color and flavor, but it does not have the same health benefits, as the Cinnamomum verum provides the health benefits. This is an expensive spice that is often substituted with Cinnamomum cassia.

When you are at the supermarket shelves, you will likely see Cinnamomum cassia being sold as Chinese or Cassia cinnamon. While the Cinnamomum verum will be sold as Ceylon cinnamon. According to the experts, you should choose the latter.

How Much Cinnamon Should You Eat?

As per the U.S. Department of Health, the recommended dosage for cinnamon, is up to 6 grams daily for 6 weeks or fewer. You may also reduce your cinnamon consumption to 5 days per week without a rest week.

It is recommended that anyone starting a new supplement regimen to consult with a health practitioner first and to be careful of over-consumption of cinnamon. Overconsumption of cinnamon can have some adverse effects.

How to Include Cinnamon in Your Diet

With all the evidence pointing to the benefits of cinnamon, we are not advocating you to start consuming it in large doses. This is because it has been found to be toxic in large doses. A little pinch or stick in your coffee or tea and to other savory dishes can do wonders to your overall health.

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