Cinnamon always takes a perfect spot in my feel-good foods. The scent alone brings back memories, a golden one at that. Always reminding me of the holidays and the amazing moments spent with mom in the kitchen.

While I’ve constantly been enticed by its flavor and aroma, as a nutritionist, I’m also delighted to share the good news about cinnamon’s health benefits. For instance, one teaspoon of cinnamon powder contains as much antimicrobial power as a half cup of blueberries.

Aside from that, cinnamon’s natural antimicrobial properties have been proven to combat strains of E. coli and Canadian yeast. Pretty amazing, yeah, but the story doesn’t end there. Below are four cinnamon’s health benefits you should know today.

4 Proven Health Benefits of Cinnamon

·        Provides a Better Heart Functioning

The benefits of cinnamon have been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease – the most notable cause of premature death. In research carried out by Penn state, it was discovered that a diet high in cinnamon spice, and turmeric helps reduce the negative impact of eating a fatty meal.

When you consume a meal that is high in fat, the levels of fat in your blood, also known as triglycerides increases. This increase directly boosts your risk of having heart disease. From this research, it was deduced that a cinnamon dose of about 120mg per day possesses these abilities as it increases the level of “good” HDL cholesterol while reducing the levels of the total “bad” LDL cholesterol.

·        Cinnamon Boosts Brain Function

Due to its abundance of antioxidants, study shows that cinnamon can boost the brain’s normal functioning and help fight against neurological disorders like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease. Just by smelling cinnamon alone enhance cognitive processing, while consuming it significantly boosts the brain’s function.

·        Cinnamon May Lower The Risks of Cancer

Cancer is a chronic disease characterized by abnormal cell growth. Due to its antioxidant capabilities, cinnamon protects against DNA damage, cancerous tumor growth, and cell mutation. Cancer-protecting properties of cinnamon are all attributed to cinnamaldehyde – a compound that inhibits tumor growth and protects the DNA against damage.

·        Provide Relief from Inflammation

Inflammation is essential, as it helps your body fight and repair damaged tissues. But it becomes more of a problem when it is chronic and affects your body’s tissues. Using the cinnamon spice in your diet can get things done right and produce relief here as it possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capabilities.

·        Blood sugar

Aside from it affecting the working of the brain, cinnamon is also known for its anti-diabetic effects. Research shows that it can reduce blood sugar levels while improving insulin sensitivity. This helps transport sugar from your bloodstream to your tissues to stabilize your blood sugar levels.

CONCLUSION

Cinnamon powder still stands as one of the most nutritious and healthiest spices on the planet. It’s got the ability to lower blood sugar levels, reduce the risk of heart disease, and have many amazing health benefits. While it might look and feel so good, be sure not to overdo it. Don’t use these supplements unless when prescribed by your physician.