What is Cinnamon?

Cinnamon is a small tree that is commonly found in South Asia and the Middle East region. The cinnamon that we typically purchase in our supermarkets is actually the bark of this tree, either sold as sticks or ground into a powder. The two most popular types of cinnamon are Ceylon and Cassia, each of which is derived from different trees.

Cinnamon has following health benefits. Cinnamon …

• can have favorable effects on brain function and memory
• soothes the stomach, and may help prevent ulcers
• suppresses the bacteria that causes urinary tract infections and the fungus associated with yeast infections
• reduces cholesterol levels – in particular, lowering bad cholesterol while leaving good cholesterol the same
• addresses elevated blood sugar levels and helps to combat insulin resistance

In addition to above mentioned health benefits, cinnamon may be a successful factor in helping you lose weight. The fat cells in your abdomen are particularly sensitive to high insulin levels, and are very effective at storing energy – far more so that fat cells you’d find in other areas such as the lower body (i.e. hips, rear end, thighs). Because abdominal fat cells are so close to your digestive organs, and there is an extensive network of blood vessels circulating in the abdominal area, it’s even easier for fat cells to store excess glucose there. So tactics that help to reduce weight.

If you suffer from elevated cholesterol or diabetes you will want to consult your physician before beginning to use cinnamon in large quantities. And if you are already taking a diabetes medication, you should talk to your physician before trying cinnamon for medicinal uses, because cinnamon may have an impact on your blood sugar.

Cinnamon can be used in its powdered or stick form, adding it to drinks and foods, or as a supplement.

In Cinnamon: A Special Report, you’ll find more detailed information about cinnamon.

For patients who want to try cinnamon, there are many tasty and simple ways you can enjoy this aromatic spice.

• Steep your favorite herbal tea with a cinnamon stick adds flavor to the tea
• Add one-half teaspoon of cinnamon to unsweetened applesauce
• Add cinnamon to your breakfast cereal or oatmeal
• Sprinkle on toast
• Adding cinnamon to butter or cream cheese
• Sprinkle cinnamon on your morning cup of coffee, cocoa or cappuccino

Cinnamon also combines very favorably with many baked fruits like peaches and apples as well as fruit juices and ciders.

What are the Side Effects of Cinnamon?

Some recent studies in Europe have shown that cinnamon derived from the Cassia plant contains a toxic compound known as Coumarin. This compound is known to cause liver and kidney damage in high concentrations. Since the powdered cinnamon that we purchase in our supermarkets is typically derived from the Cassia plant, it is important to avoid consuming high doses of it.

Since cinnamon has an anti-clotting effect on the blood, caution should also be exercised when it is used in combination with other blood-thinning products such as aspirin. Large quantities of cinnamon should also be avoided during pregnancy due to the possibility of adverse effects on the uterus.

Anyone that is currently taking medication for controlling blood sugar levels or blood thinners should consult their doctor before using cinnamon as a regular supplement.

Where and How to Buy Cinnamon

The powdered cinnamon that we commonly use as a spice is typically Cassia cinnamon, and can be found in most grocery stores. It can also be purchased in stick form. Ceylon cinnamon is typically more expensive than Cassia cinnamon, and is therefore usually only available in specialty stores. It is usually only available in stick form. While both types are known for their therapeutic effects, the Ceylon cinnamon is slightly sweeter and is therefore considered to be of higher quality.

For More Information

• Cinnamon — A Special Report
• Diabetes Care Journal Article
• Cinnamon Recipes
• Health Benefits of Cinnamon – Cinnamon for Diabetes and Insulin Resistant
• Cinnamon – Health Benefits of Cinnamon

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