The Benefits Of Cinnamon
There are undeniable health benefits of cinnamon that should want you to add it to your diet. Cinnamon can be enjoyed in many recipes and as a garnish to many different foods. The amazing health benefits of cinnamon are extensive and range from its ability to regulate and moderate blood sugar all the way to contributing to reducing pain related to many different ailments.
Key Benefits Of Cinnamon 
1. Lowering Your Cholesterol – LDL – In a study conducted by Department of Human Nutrition research showed that just 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon per day can lower LDL cholesterol.
In the study 60 people, 30 men and 30 women aged 52.2 +/- 6.32 years, were randomly divided into groups. The groups were divided by levels of cinnamon they would consume (1,3,6 grams). The cinnamon was consumed for 40 days.
As a result: There were a decrease in LDL cholesterol (7-27%), and total cholesterol (12-26%) levels in the patients.
2. Ability to Moderate Blood Sugar – Cinnamon contains a phytochemical referred to as chaclone polymers. Chaclone polymers significantly increase your ability to metabolize glucose. University of Oklahoma conducted a study where cinnamon was used to test reduction on glucose and lipid levels on non insulin type 2 diabetics. (results of that study) There are many other phytochemicals and plants that can also aid in lowering blood sugar, but they also impose many different toxins into your body in order to do so. Cinnamon and it’s chaclone polymers do all the same work without the same negative side effects of the toxins, making it the best choice.
3. Great for Digestion – There are also many digestive benefits to consuming cinnamon. Cinnamon can be used to relieve gas. There are also compounds in cinnamon that can help to soothe nausea, these compounds are called catechins.
4. Vitamins and Minerals
- Manganese– Cinnamon contains manganese, and it can contribute to the production of collagen. Collagen is great for bone health and is tremendously important to the healing process of wounds.
- Vitamin K- Cinnamon also contains vitamin K, which is incredibly important when it comes to bone health and blood clotting.
- Calcium- There are many different benefits to calcium such as helping blood clotting and muscle contraction. Calcium is also incredibly beneficial when it comes to keeping your bones healthy and strong. Cinnamon is a fantastic source of calcium.
- Vitamin A – Cinnamon is a source of Vitamin A. Vitamin A has many health benefits such as development, vision, growth and immune system function
5. Pain Reliever – Cinnamon has also been attributed to helping the relief of pain. The anti inflammatory properties of cinnamon can help to relieve pain, especially pain associated with different types of arthritis. Cinnamon can also help to aid in the quest to relieve pain in women due to menstruation.
How Much Cinnamon Per Day Is Recommended?
Note: Although cinnamon has shown positive effects in studies it is not recognized as a treatment, therefor there is no established dose. Most recommend 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of cinnamon per day (2-4 grams). Studies have used between 1 gram and 6 grams of cinnamon, however very high doses may be toxic and hazardous to your health.
Considering the many different health benefits that cinnamon boasts, it’s a fantastic addition to any diet. There are several different ways that cinnamon can be incorporated into meals, desserts, juices and so much more. Not only is cinnamon cost effective and multi purpose but it also tastes great. Reap the benefits of cinnamon and add it to your grocery list today and begin on your way to a healthier you.
Sources: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14633804