The splendid spices of cinnamon: A sweet superfood
What's the story
Cinnamon, derived from the bark of trees in the Cinnamomum genus, is a versatile spice used in both sweet and savory dishes. Its use dates back to ancient Egypt, where it was highly prized for its medicinal properties. Nowadays, it's recognized as a superfood thanks to its health benefits and culinary versatility. Read on to discover what makes cinnamon a superfood.
Antioxidants
A rich source of antioxidants
Cinnamon is packed with powerful antioxidants, including polyphenols, which protect the body from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. In fact, a study comparing the antioxidant activity of 26 spices found that cinnamon outshines even well-known "superfoods" like garlic and oregano. Incorporating cinnamon into your diet can greatly boost your antioxidant intake, promoting overall health.
Inflammation
Anti-inflammatory properties
Chronic inflammation is a major contributor to various diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Cinnamon can help reduce this risk, thanks to its powerful anti-inflammatory properties. It is packed with multiple types of compounds that actively fight inflammation in the body. This makes it a great choice for people aiming to manage or prevent chronic diseases.
Heart health
May cut the risk of heart disease
Heart disease is the world's leading cause of death, but you can reduce your risk factors for this disease by eating cinnamon. Research indicates that consuming as little as one teaspoon (or around 5 grams) of cinnamon daily improves blood markers for individuals with type two diabetes. It lowers total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol (the bad kind), and triglyceride levels, while keeping HDL cholesterol (the good kind) steady.
Blood sugar
Helps fight diabetes
Cinnamon is a powerful tool in reducing blood sugar levels and enhancing sensitivity to insulin—the hormone vital for maintaining balanced blood sugar levels. For diabetics or those at risk, adding cinnamon to their diet can help manage blood sugar spikes following meals. It achieves this by decelerating the breakdown of carbs in the digestive system.
Sweetening
A natural sweetener
For those looking to reduce their sugar intake but don't want to miss out on sweetness, cinnamon is your best friend. Its natural sweetness can elevate the flavor of many meals and beverages, all without adding any extra calories or sugars. Sprinkling cinnamon on your oatmeal or adding it to your coffee can provide a hint of natural sweetness, along with the health benefits we discussed above.