If your only association with cinnamon is Christmas candles and apple pie, then keep reading. Cinnamon is simply sensational. It tastes great, is versatile and has many therapeutic uses from prevention of diabetes to being an aphrodisiac.
Prevention of diabetes
Cinnamon has the ability to regulate blood sugar levels by increasing the body’s sensitivity to insulin. Insulin resistance (whereby the body begins to lose it ability to listen to insulin’s message) is the first step to diabetes (type 2), which is a preventable condition. Just one teaspoon per day has these therapeutic, beneficial effects.
Weight loss and reduction of cravings
Cinnamon is a delicious natural sweetener that helps curb cravings. The blood sugar balancing effect encourages healthy weight loss and can be used successfully for weight management as part of a weight loss protocol.
Antioxidant and anti-aging
A teaspoon of cinnamon packs a powerful antioxidant punch, same as half a cup of blueberries. By aiding in blood sugar regulation, it prevents sugar surges damaging our tissues and DNA. Combine this with its antioxidant effects and you can see why it can effectively aid in slowing down the aging process.
Antibacterial and immune boosting
Cinnamon has antimicrobial properties that can effectively treat or keep an infection at bay. It can be used to eradicate Candida infection in the intestines, as well as having antioxidant abilities to aid the immune system. Try adding it to hot honey and lemon for a powerful natural cold & flu remedy.
Digestive comfort
Cinnamon is warming and enhances digestion, especially the metabolism of fats. Its anti-fungal properties help keep a healthy balance of gut flora in the intestines and can help relieve diarrhoea and nausea.
Daily use of cinnamon
- Add to porridge, muesli or cereal
- Use in smoothies – try almond milk, banana, flax and cinnamon
- Add to brown rice and curries
- Stir into healthy desserts, such as banana softie
- Make a tea using cinnamon sticks, lemon and honey
Have you had your cinnamon today?
To top it all off, cinnamon has been shown to have memory enhancing effects simply by smelling it. It also has the ability to boost peripheral circulation and has been hailed as an aphrodisiac. Have you had your teaspoon of cinnamon today?
Important note: cinnamon should not be used in high amounts during pregnancy. If you are on prescription medication for diabetes, consult your doctor and health care practitioner before using large amounts of cinnamon. Never stop medication without the assistance of a health care professional.
Article by Jo Rowkins dipNT MBANT, nutritionist and founder of awakening health.