Cinnamon: The Everyday Spice with Surprising Health Benefits

Who doesn’t love cinnamon?  I love sprinkling some on my morning oatmeal.  My kids loved sprinkling cinnamon and sugar on buttered toast.  Did you know cinnamon has some amazing health benefits?

Where does cinnamon come from?

Did you know we get cinnamon from the bark of the Cinnamomum tree? Cinnamon producing regions include Sri Lanka which produces Ceylon cinnamon, Indonesia, Vietnam and India.  Another type of cinnamon is Cassia cinnamon that has a stronger, spicier flavor and is the variety you find on grocery store shelves.    

🌿 What are Some Health Benefits of Cinnamon That are Backed by Research?

🧬 1. Rich in Antioxidants

·         Cinnamon is loaded with antioxidants that help fight oxidative stress and protect cells from damage.

💪 2. Anti-Inflammatory Properties

·         Studies show cinnamon may reduce inflammation markers like C-reactive protein, which supports heart and metabolic health.  Cinnamon may help reduce inflammation in conditions such as arthritis, asthma, and inflammatory bowel disease.  

💓 3. Supports Heart Health

·         Regular intake may help lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure — all key factors in cardiovascular wellness.  And cinnamon may increase “good” HDL cholesterol also reducing the risk of heart disease. 

🍬 4. Helps Regulate Blood Sugar

·         Cinnamon may improve insulin sensitivity and slow the rise in blood sugar after meals, making it helpful for managing type 2 diabetes.  Another benefit is that cinnamon doesn’t contribute many calories so those with type 2 diabetes can include it in their diets.    

🍽️ 5. Aids Digestion

·         Traditionally used to ease indigestion, nausea, stomach cramps, and reduce bloating.  Cinnamon may also stimulate production of digestive enzymes which help break down food and thus improve digestion. 

🔥 6. May Boost Metabolism

·         Cinnamon contains the compound, cinnamaldehyde, which may stimulate the body to burn more calories. 

⚠️ Common Myths About Cinnamon

❌ Myth 1: Cinnamon Can Cure Diabetes or Cancer

·         While cinnamon may help manage blood sugar, it’s not a cure. Lab studies show potential anti-cancer effects, but eating cinnamon alone won’t treat disease.

❌ Myth 2: More Is Better

·         High doses (especially of cassia) can lead to liver damage due to coumarin. Stick to moderate amounts — about ½ to 1 teaspoon per day is considered safe.

❌ Myth 3: Cinnamon Supplements Are Always Safe

·         Supplements aren’t regulated like food. Quality and dosage vary widely, so it’s best to consult a healthcare provider before using them regularly.

🍂 What are some ways to add cinnamon to your day?

1. Sprinkle on oatmeal, or sprinkle on buttered toast
2. Put a cinnamon stick in a cup of coffee, tea, hot apple cider, or hot chocolate
3. Sprinkle on yogurt, fruits, desserts
4. Use cinnamon in baking (see recipe below)

⚠️ What are some precautions? (Consult with your health care provider before using cinnamon for any health purpose.)

• Cinnamon may react with certain medications, such as blood thinners.
• People with liver or kidney disease should consult a doctor before consuming cinnamon.
• Excessive consumption of cinnamon may cause GI upset, nausea, and diarrhea.

✨ Conclusion: A Sprinkle of Wellness in Every Spoonful

Cinnamon isn’t just a cozy kitchen staple—it’s a spice with a story and a surprising array of health benefits. From its antioxidant power to its potential role in heart health and blood sugar regulation, cinnamon offers more than just flavor. But like all good things, moderation matters. Staying informed about myths and precautions ensures you enjoy cinnamon safely and effectively.

So go ahead—add a dash to your oatmeal, swirl a stick into your tea, or bake it into your favorite treat. With its rich history and promising health perks, cinnamon truly earns its place as a sweet and spicy ally in your wellness journey.

Sources:  Cinnamon , Cassia cinnamon , antioxidants , C-reactive protein , inflammation , cardiovascular wellness, type 2 diabetes , benefit , indigestion , digestive enzymes , compound , blood sugar , safer for regular use , safe , cinnamon , day , precautions , Apples Image Sources:  Health benefits of cinnamon

Baked Apples

Ingredients

2 large baking apples

2 teaspoons butter or margarine (I prefer butter.)

4 teaspoons brown sugar

¼ teaspoon cinnamon

2 teaspoons golden raisins

2 Tablespoons water

Directions: 

1.      Core apples and make a slit in skin all around the middle of each apple to prevent the skin from bursting.

2.      Place apples in small microwave safe baking dish

3.      In a small bowl melt butter on HI – 10 seconds. 

4.      Stir in sugar, cinnamon, and raisins.

5.      Fill each apple with sugar mixture.

6.      Add water to dish.

7.      Cook, covered with plastic wrap, on HI 4-5 minutes. 

 

Makes 2 servings.