Aside from its amazing aroma, cinnamon has a number of anti-inflammatory, immunity-boosting, anti-microbial, antioxidant, and potential heart disease and cancer prevention qualities. This curious spice is packed with so many health benefits that once you know more about it, you will want to include it in your meals, not just during the festive season!
It Fights Bacteria
Certified nutrition consultant and founder of Gut of Integrity Stephanie Papadakis says that cinnamon’s antimicrobial and antibacterial properties help protect the skin from allergic reactions, rashes, and other forms of irritation. In addition, cinnamon can also fight bacteria that cause bad breath.
It Balances Blood Sugar Levels
According to Papadakis, cinnamon lowers blood sugar levels and improves the sensitivity to insulin, which is very important for people with diabetes and high blood sugar. Cinnamon blocks the activity of certain digestive enzymes that slow down the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream.
Cinnamon and Weight Loss
The internet is full of people who believe that cinnamon speeds up our metabolism and can help us lose weight, but that’s not exactly true. Papadakis says that there isn’t sufficient research to back this up. Papadakis suggests that people include cinnamon in their daily diet. For example, you can add some cinnamon to your oatmeal, cereal, coffee, tea, and baked goods, and you can even use it to marinate meat. It’s such a versatile spice!