Do you happen to like the seasonal cinnamon buns, or do you crave the spicy elixir that works well with the weight loss remedy? In both cases, cinnamon is regarded as an important part.
It is a part of ancient medicine and spices that have multiple health benefits associated with it.
In this blog, we are going to understand the health benefits of cinnamon which are backed by science, and some easy homemade recipes for you.
So, if you are someone who likes sweet-spicy recipes or wants to explore the benefits of cinnamon, then this blog is for you.
What Are The Science-Backed Health Benefits Of Cinnamon?
From cinnamon buns to savory dishes, cinnamon is a spice that has always been a part of every household. The flavorful taste with health benefits is also the reason why many health brands are coming out with cinnamon supplements.
Let us dive deep into the health benefits that cinnamon has to offer us.
Rich In Antioxidants
Starting with antioxidants, cinnamon has loads of it which can help reduce inflammation in the body. It has a large amount of polyphenol, the active ingredient in antioxidants that helps the body to protect from oxidative stress.
Studies have shown that consuming cinnamon supplements has visible effects on the C-reactive protein and promotes overall health.
Reduces The Risk Of Diseases
While Cinnamagic elixir is rich in antioxidants, it also can reduce the risk of chronic diseases in the body. When inflammation is converted to infection in the body, it also has the potential to become a chronic disease.
Studies show that adding cinnamon to your daily diet can control inflammation which ultimately reduces the risk of developing a chronic disease.
Good For Heart Health
Heart health is an integral part of our body. Studies show that adding at least 1.3 grams of cinnamon to your diet can help reduce the risk factors leading to heart disease.
The studies have shown that in a matter of 8 weeks, there is a visible decrease in blood pressure, high cholesterol, and triglycerides. This is certainly good news for individuals with heart conditions and a natural remedy to reverse the symptoms.
Improve The Sensitivity To Insulin
Another important aspect of cinnamon is that it can help people living with Type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Cinnamon helps to reduce the resistance towards insulin which can help lower the blood sugar levels in your body.
Sweet cinnamon serenade when added to the recipes, is a visible difference to controlling sugar. A study with 40 diabetic individuals’ participation showed that consuming 3-6 grams of cinnamon in their diet resulted in decreased pre and post-meal sugar levels.
Caters To Memory And Brain Health
This fiery fable cinnamon is not only good for heart health but also serves for healthy brain function. In 2014, a study concluded that cinnamon can help improve the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
The neurons are well protected with normalized neurotransmitters and improved motor skills. Not only Parkinson’s disease but also Alzheimer’s disease symptoms can also be improved with the help of cinnamon.
Helps Fight Off Cancer Cells
Cinnamon has the potential capacity to prevent cancer cells from growing in the body and also is used for treatment. There are studies suggesting that cinnamon can effectively stop the prognosis of ovarian cancer and reduce the growth of cancer cells.
The formation of blood vessels in tumours which stops the cancer cells from growing is also a major benefit with the help of cinnamon.
Regulates Period Cycles For PCOS
All the ladies who are suffering from PCOS can now have a breath of relief as there is good news. Studies suggest that taking 1.5 teaspoons of cinnamon daily in their food can help regular periods.
Though there is no change in androgen levels, at least there is a sliver of hope to have periods at regular intervals.
Improves Skin Texture And Boost Collagen
Cinnamon has shown a great deal when it comes to the cinnamon skincare routine. Many DIY facial mask recipes involve cinnamon as a primary ingredient.
Studies have shown that cinnamon can help fight off acne and reduce the occurrence of it. Another study suggests that there is an increase in collagen production that keeps your skin looking young when you consume cinnamon frequently. Beauty brands also have products with cinnamon to prove the benefits.
Enhances Metabolism
Individuals who train for long long hours in the gym can now turn to cinnamon-based protein powders as it boosts metabolism and helps to shed weight.
Although it is too early to come to conclusions, research shows that cinnamon targets fat cells and makes them burn into energy when you are exercising.
Fights Off Bacteria
As cinnamon is rich in antioxidants, it can fight off the bacteria in our body effectively. Regular intake of cinnamon in your diet increases your immune response and promotes overall health.
The studies also suggest that common cold and Flu symptoms can be treated with cinnamon tea.
Ways To Incorporate Cinnamon In Your Diet
Here are some of the easy and ready-to-go dishes that incorporate cinnamon into your daily routine:
- Cinnamon style stir fry veggies
- Chia pudding with cinnamon and almond
- Fruits with a drizzle of cinnamon
- Baked goods with cinnamon as topping
- Cinnamon-based salad dressing
- Ginger and cinnamon tea
- Cinnamon rice pudding
- Yoghourt and granola with cinnamon sprinkled on top
- Coffee with a pinch of cinnamon
- Nuts roasted with cinnamon and black pepper
- Smoothie with cinnamon-based frozen fruits and nuts on top
Conclusion
Cinnamon is a powerful spice that not only adds flavor to your dishes but also gives a unique texture to it. The skin benefits from cinnamon and works wonders for acne and red blemishes.
You can count on cinnamon for your overall health and still have room for more. Including cinnamon in your daily routine will make a lot of difference and have positive effects. So, let’s make the world of health and beauty a better place with a dash of cinnamon.
References:
- Badalzadeh, R., et al. (2014). The effect of cinnamon extract and long-term aerobic training on heart function, biochemical alterations, and lipid profile following exhaustive exercise in male rats.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4312399/ - Spices, cinnamon, ground. (2019).
https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/171320/nutrients - Cinnamon. (2016).
https://nccih.nih.gov/health/cinnamon