Cinnamon's Superpowers
- stefaniefriend
- Apr 23, 2021
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 23, 2021
Not only is cinnamon a delicious addition to many sweet and savoury recipes, it is also a powerful antioxidant. Used for its medicinal properties for thousands of years, cinnamon comes in different forms such as oils and tea - and has seemingly endless health benefits.
Antibacterial, anti-fungal and antiviral properties
This super spice lends a helping hand to your immune system when it comes to fighting off potential pathogens. Including cinnamon in your diet, using it in the form of an essential oil or drinking cinnamon tea has natural antimicrobial effects.
It is a powerful antioxidant
Antioxidants combat free radicals in the body preventing them from causing cellular damage. An overabundance of free radicals can lead to oxidative stress which can contribute to inflammation, and a wide range of imbalances and diseases. In a study that compared the antioxidant power of 26 different spices, cinnamon came up as the clear winner.
Helps reduce blood sugar
Cinnamon’s most well known effect is its ability to increase insulin sensitivity, allowing your cells to more efficiently take in glucose from the blood. This keeps blood sugar levels balanced which can lower the risk of type 2 diabetes. Studies have also shown that cinnamon has a positive effect on controlling symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome, a common metabolic disorder in women which can lead to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
There are several ways to use cinnamon, including as an essential oil, or drinking in tea form. Here are a few of my favourites:
→ Use as a savoury spice in stews or curries
→ Add to stewed or baked apples for a healthy dessert
→ Sprinkle over your morning oatmeal or smoothie bowl
→ Add to baked goods such as cinnamon rolls or energy bites
One thing to keep in mind however, is that cinnamon in high amounts can cause adverse effects including damage to the liver and kidneys. Although studies have shown that up to 6 grams (1 ½ tsp) per day can be safely consumed without negative effects, it is highly unique to each individual. It is recommended to use cinnamon sparingly as a spice - remember a little goes a long way!
- Stefanie Friend
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