Cinnamon: Weight Loss, Health Benefits, and Recipes
Cinnamon is a spice that grows in the inner bark of trees of the genus Cinnamomum. It is utilised in a number of cuisines for its distinct aroma as well as as a flavouring component.
Tea, traditional culinary preparations, snacks, breakfast cereals, and sweet and savoury dishes can all benefit from the versatile spice. Cinnamaldehyde is the major component in cinnamon that gives it its scent and flavour.
The spice contains vitamins and minerals that are beneficial to one’s health. The spice is also recognised to have several health benefits. We will go over a couple of them in depth below.
Cinnamon Health Benefits
Cinnamon has a plethora of health advantages, some of which are discussed in detail below-
1. Aids in the reduction of blood sugar levels in diabetic individuals
Taking two tablespoons of cinnamon powder after meals helps diabetics reduce insulin resistance and improves hormone function. It also lowers blood pressure, which aids in the management of Type II Diabetes.
2. Aids in the prevention of heart disease
LDL cholesterol can be lowered and HDL cholesterol can be elevated by consuming half a teaspoon or one gramme of cinnamon powder daily. Cinnamon can also help to decrease your cholesterol naturally.
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3. Functions as an antioxidant
Cinnamon contains potent antioxidants such as polyphenols. Cinnamon consumption can help our bodies recover from oxidative stress, which is responsible for cell damage and the development of many chronic diseases.
4. Aid in the battle against fungal diseases
Cinnamon is well-known for its ability to reduce tooth decay and bad breath. Its oil is also used to treat infections of the respiratory tract. The spice’s antimicrobial qualities extend to fungus as well.
5. Reduces Inflammation
The chemical cinnamaldehyde, which contributes to cinnamon’s distinct fragrance and flavour, aids in the repair of tissue damage and the battle against infections.
Cinnamon can also help with headaches and other types of pain, such as arthritic pain. The spice also improves blood circulation, which can help relieve discomfort over time.
Cinnamon and Weight Loss
Cinnamon powder contains a high fibre level; taking as little as one teaspoon can help you feel fuller for longer and meet your daily fibre requirements.
Cinnamon eating has been shown in studies to aid in fat burning. If you include cinnamon in your diet on a regular basis, you may be able to cut down weight growth.
This does not imply that you consume cinnamon whole, by itself, or in any of the high-calorie baked goods associated with cinnamon. Cinnamon can be incorporated into your diet through a variety of recipes. Some are discussed in the section below.
Cinnamon weight loss recipes
We propose to you two recipes that you can incorporate into your everyday diet. Aside from this, you can always look up recipes that include cinnamon to get your daily dose of cinnamon.
Tea with cinnamon
Method:
- Bring water to a boil in a saucepan.
- Allow two spoonfuls of cinnamon powder to simmer in the water.
- Wait for the water to turn red/brown.
- Filter the water and drink it without any additional sugar. You can sweeten it with honey if desired.
Apple Cider Vinegar and Cinnamon
Method:
- In a pan, bring a glass of water to a boil.
- To this, add 1 inch of cinnamon stick.
- Cook the mixture until it turns golden.
- To this solution, add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar.
- For a touch of sweetness, add a dash of honey (it is effective to consume both cinnamon and honey for weight loss)
- Add some ice if you like it cold, or drink it as is.
Side effects of cinnamon for weight reduction
The following symptoms can be found in those who are allergic to cinnamon. Excessive use for weight loss may also result in the weight loss adverse effects listed below:
- Rashes on the skin
- Ache in the stomach
- Nausea\sAsthma
- Sneezing
If you experience any of the above-mentioned negative effects, please discontinue use and consult a medical expert.
Which is better: cinnamon sticks or powdered cinnamon?
While both types of cinnamon are susceptible to adulteration, cinnamon powder is more susceptible to impure additions.
If you want to reap the advantages of cinnamon, we recommend using cinnamon sticks rather than cinnamon powder.
Cinnamon sticks have a pleasant scent and are small in size. If you want powdered cinnamon, buy cinnamon sticks and crush them with a mortar-pestle or a mixer-grinder before using in cooking/baking.
This way, you may enjoy the fresh flavour and scent of cinnamon while reaping all of its inherent health advantages.
Summary
Cinnamon, it turns out, is one of the world’s healthiest spices. It is incredibly nutritious and aids in the prevention of certain ailments such as diabetes and other cholesterol-related health problems.
While cinnamon alone cannot be blamed for weight loss, everyday cinnamon ingestion has been scientifically demonstrated to be beneficial for weight loss and control.
Still not sure if you should use these little wooden spices in your cooking projects? Think no further and do so to get a slew of health and weight-loss advantages.
