8 Wonderful Reasons to Love Cinnamon

Sharon Moore February 03, 2014

Cinnamon is a kitchen must-have for many. It is one of those spices touted for their fantastic taste and captivating aroma. Who doesn’t want a sprinkle of cinnamon in their latte or some freshly baked apple pie? But the taste is not the only reason why many people love cinnamon. This popular spice has scientifically been proven to provide amazing health benefits, such as the following:

1. Lower LDL Cholesterol

Cholesterol – that waxy substance produced by your body is not really a bad thing, unless you have too much of the bad type. LDL cholesterol or the bad cholesterol contributes to plaque build-up which over time increases the risk of stroke and heart disease. A Pakistani study found that 6 grams cinnamon a day (about 1/2 tablespoon) reduced LDL cholesterol in people with type 2 diabetes nearly 30 per cent and cut total cholesterol 26 per cent.

2. Protection against Infections

According to the National Institutes of Health2, cinnamaldehyde, a chemical found in Cassia cinnamon, can help fight against bacterial and fungal infections. The powerful compounds found in cinnamon also offer protection against H. pylori bacteria and other pathogens. It also provides protection against vaginal yeast infections, oral yeast infections, stomach ulcers and head lice.

3. Pain Management

Korean researchers found that cinnamon contains anti-inflammatory compounds that help fight cytokines linked to arthritic pain. Many people use cinnamon to ease joint and muscle pain.

4. Digestive Tonic

Apart from adding flavour to food, cinnamon also aids in digestion. It is proven to be effective in alleviating indigestion, nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, diarrhoea flatulence, and other digestive problems.

5. Immune Booster

Cinnamon, like most herbs and spices, contain a wide range of natural compounds that boost the immune system, protecting the body against various diseases.

6. Cardiovascular Benefits

A compound in cinnamon, called cinnamaldehyde, has been well-researched for its effects on blood platelets. Platelets are constituents of blood that clump as the body’s defence mechanism against physical injury, such as bleeding. But under normal circumstances, they can cause unnecessary blood clots that hinder blood flow. Cinnaldehyde helps prevent platelets from clumping together when not necessary.

7. Protection against Neurodegenerative Disorders

Cinnamon holds promise against neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, brain tumour, and multiple sclerosis, according to the research by the University of Texas. Their study shows that cinnamon may help lower the risk of the said diseases by alleviating brain inflammation.

8. Blood Sugar Regulation

Numerous studies have shown that cinnamon helps regulate blood sugar levels, making it a perfect diet addition for both diabetic and hypoglycaemic individuals. This is also great news for those wanting to have stable energy levels and moods.

Cinnamon is indeed a natural way to improve your health. A pinch here and there can go a long way when it comes to promoting health and wellness!