Who does not drool over the idea of a freshly baked apple pie or a cinnamon roll on a winter day? The thought itself has a delightful impact, isn’t it? One of the main ingredients responsible for the distinctive aroma in both these desserts is Cinnamon.
Cinnamon is a globally popular aromatic spice that comes from the inner bark of a cinnamon tree that belongs to the Cinnamomum family. It consists of a pleasant and warm smell that adds well-defined flavors to sweet as well as savory cuisines. Besides being a key ingredient in the kitchen, cinnamon has been used for its medicinal properties for a long time now. Research studies show that our ancestors used this spice for anointment, embalming and even to treat multiple ailments. Let us look at some of the unknown health benefits of cinnamon.
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Brims with antioxidants
We look for antioxidant properties in our foods as they can mitigate oxidative stress which can lead to damaged cells and chronic illnesses. Cinnamon is super rich in antioxidants such as polyphenol, choline, alpha, and beta carotene. This increases the body’s ability to fight off free radicals and keeps it healthy.
Anti-bacterial, Anti-Fungal and Anti-Viral
The main active element in cinnamon named Cinnamaldehyde helps to fight various types of infections. The spice also has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral properties. It can fight a number of respiratory infections caused by fungi. The anti-fungal properties present in cinnamon helps to preserve food naturally.
Reduces blood sugar
Cinnamon has a powerful anti-diabetic property that helps in lowering blood sugar levels. It acts in a similar manner as insulin. The components present in cinnamon lowers insulin resistance, as a result, its effectiveness grows. If you keep cinnamon as part of your diet, it will help to slow the breakdown of carbs in your gut making sure your blood sugar levels do not go up after meals.
Has anti-inflammatory property
The antioxidants present in cinnamon have an anti-inflammatory property that helps to repair tissue damages in your body. It reduces swelling and prevents blood platelets to form clumps. It is considered a boon for patients who struggle with arthritis.
Contributes to weight-loss regime
Cinnamon is powered to reduce the bad effects of high-fat foods which in turn contributes to your weight-loss regime. This bitter-sweet spice acts as a great food processor that boosts metabolism leading to weight loss. You can add this spice while cooking or have a piping hot cuppa with a teaspoon of cinnamon powder to see the results.
Helps to control menstrual cramps
Cinnamon helps to reduce the severity of pain during menstruation and also controls the excessive amount of bleeding during this time. It is often used as a safer and natural solution to treat dysmenorrhea in young women.
May prevent Cancer
Cinnamon reduces the growth of cancer cells as well as the formation of blood vessels in tumors. It also has detoxifying properties that interfere with the cancer cell growth in the body.
Has cardio-protective properties
Cinnamon reduces the levels of bad cholesterol, LDL in the body and effectively increases good HDL cholesterol. This factor assures that the spice has some cardio-protective properties.
Eases throat discomfort
Cinnamon tea has the potential to treat throat pain and infection occurring because of flu or a cold. It liquefies the mucus by serving as an expectorant. The antitubercular property present in cinnamon is beneficial for you if you are suffering from cough, cold, headache, and asthma.
May prevent Alzheimer’s disease
An extract called CEPPT present in cinnamon may have the quality to prevent the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. It builds up a protein called tau in the brain, protects neurons and normalizes the neurotransmitter levels by improving motor functions.
It is evident that adding even a small amount of cinnamon to your diet will go a long way. A single tablespoon of cinnamon contains only 19 calories and 4 grams of fiber. Where the fat, sugar, and protein count is nil. It also fulfills a certain percentage of daily requirements of manganese, iron, calcium, and vitamin K. So, what are you waiting for? Enjoy this ambrosial spice to get exotic flavors along with remarkable health benefits.
