Cinnamon & Health
Cinnamon is a highly aromatic spice that has been used in cooking for ages. Made from the inner bark of trees named Cinnamomum, this spice not only adds flavour to the food, but also positively contributes to our well Being. Before knowing the health benefits of Ceylon Cinnamon, lets learn a little bit more about how many types of cinnamon are there and what is Ceylon Cinnamon!
Types of Cinnamon
There are two major types of Cinnamon:
- Ceylon Cinnamon- Also known as true cinnamon, 90% of the global supply of Ceylon cinnamon comes from Sri Lanka, previously known as Ceylon. (Ceylon Cinnamon is the only soft and brittle Cinnamon with ultra-low Coumarin levels.)
- Cassia Cinnamon - It is the common variety of cinnamon that we buy from the grocery The Cinnamon sold in the USA is mainly Cassia (Cassia,SaigonandKorintje Cinnamon are also classified under theCassia Cinnamoncategory because they are very similar to each other with only slight variations in color, taste, shape and Coumarin content.)
Difference between Ceylon Cinnamon and Cassia Cinnamon
Despite sharing the same name Ceylon Cinnamon has a delicate and citrusy flavor compared to Cassia Cinnamon which has a strong and harsh flavor. The texture of Ceylon Cinnamon is soft and brittle as opposed to Cassia Cinnamon which is hard and woody. Ceylon cinnamon tends to look lighter in color compared to Cassia which has a reddish dark brown appearance.
Health benefits of Ceylon Cinnamon
Maintains blood sugar
Ceylon cinnamon is known to reduce blood sugar. It makes our body cells more receptive to insulin that controls the blood glucose. In succession, our body tends to eliminate glucose from the blood instead of storing it in body tissues. Simply, an intake of half-a-spoon Ceylon cinnamon powder mixed with water can do magic in our body. See how Ceylon cinnamon helps fight Diabetes.
Assist with weight loss
Cinnamon's ability to delay food from progressing through the digestive system assists with weight loss. Food is delayed in the stomach if Cinnamon is present and, as a result, leaves you feeling full for a longer period of time. This results in a reduction of appetite and causes you to eat less.
Improves circulation
Cinnamon contains a compound known as cinnamaldehyde that improves peripheral blood flow. It means that this spice can prove to be very helpful in the treatment of poor circulation in any body part. Moreover, the spice also helps in the removal of blockades in blood vessels including cholesterol, which in succession, improves blood circulation. To avail this health benefit of cinnamon, it is recommended to have a regular intake of 1 tsp of Ceylon cinnamon powder mixed in around liter of water, in two divided portions twice a day.
Removes digestive disorders
Cinnamon is widely known for treating digestive disorders like appetite loss, indigestion, diarrhea, etc. The wonderful spice also contains essential oils which help in stimulating saliva and certain gastric juices, followed by easy digestions as well as nutrient absorption. Even sprinkling a small amount of cinnamon powder on acidic foods can save our body from indigestion. Having a recommended dose of a small amount of cinnamon with water before meals helps a lot in improving digestion.
Conclusion : It is wonderful that this single spice is laced with so many health benefits that ultimately help in the treatment of diabetes, lowers the heart risk, and cures gastric ulcers. Include this magical spice in your regular diet and stay fit & healthy.