The Health benefits of Cinnamon are numerous but in this article, we will be talking about ten health benefits of the spice that everyone must understand.
Before we get into the discussion, let’s talk about how Cinnamon came into existence.
What is Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a spice that comes from the branches of trees of the Cinnamomum family. It is native to the Caribbean, South America, and Southeast Asia.
It has been in existence since 2000 BC in Ancient Egypt, where they regarded it highly and has been adopted in various cities across the globe.
There are two main types of cinnamon: Cassia and Ceylon. The two have different nutritional profiles.
Without any further delay, let’s take a look at some health benefits of cinnamon.
10 Health Benefits Of Cinnamon You Must Be Aware Of
1. Protects Against HIV
Though a permanent treatment for HIV (Humane Immune Virus) have not been found, study have shown that cinnamon may help protect against HIV.
In 2000, a study of extracts of Indian medicinal plants found that the spice may help in preventing the deadly disease.
In a 2016 laboratory study, scientists found that an extract from cinnamon showed anti-HIV activity.
This does not mean that foods containing cinnamon can treat or prevent HIV, but cinnamon extracts could one day become a part of HIV therapy.
2. Prevents Cancer
Cancer is another ailment that has continued to cause havoc in human body.
However, research have shown that extract of cinnamon and cardamom can help reduce the probability of having cancer.
The cinnamaldehydes found in cinnamon may have antitumor and anticancer properties.
In the study carried out, scientists treated mice with cancer using an extract of cinnamon and cardamom.
Tests found lower levels of oxidative stress in the melanoma cells of the mice that received the treatment.
3. Helps To Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease
Some animal studies have suggested that cinnamon may help prevent Alzheimer’s disease.
According to researchers, an extract present in cinnamon bark, called CEppt, contains properties that may prevent symptoms from developing.
Researchers proved that mice who received the extract experienced a decrease in features of Alzheimer’s, such as amyloid plaques, and improvements in their ability to think and reason.
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4. Helps To Treat Fungal Infections
The health benefits of cinnamon includes its ability to help treat some types of fungal infections.
This is possible through the cinnamon oil.
Recent studies showed that cinnamon oil was effective against a type of Candida that affects the bloodstream.
This may be due to its antimicrobial properties.
If further research confirms these findings, cinnamon oil could play a role in treating this type of infection.
5. Cinnamon Helps Control The Blood Sugar Levels
According to research carried out in 2015, cassia cinnamon may reduce blood sugar levels.
The research noted that after 60 people with type 2 diabetes consumed up to 6 grams (g) of cinnamon per day for between 40 days and 4 months, they had lower serum glucose, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and total cholesterol.
6. Cinnamon Has Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Inflammation is incredibly important as it helps the body fight infections and repair tissue damage.
Though inflammation can become a problem when it’s chronic and directed against your body’s own tissues, Cinnamon may be useful in this regard.
Studies show that this spice and its antioxidants have potent anti-inflammatory properties.
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7. Helps Improve Sensitivity to the Hormone Insulin
One of the key hormones that regulate metabolism and energy use is Insulin.
It’s also essential for transporting blood sugar from your bloodstream to your cells. However, many people are resistant to the effects of insulin.
This is known as insulin resistance. This is where cinnamon comes in.
Cinnamon can dramatically reduce insulin resistance, helping this important hormone do its job effectively in your body.
8. Cinnamon Have Beneficial Effects on Neurodegenerative Diseases
Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by progressive loss of the structure or function of brain cells.
However, two compounds found in cinnamon appear to inhibit the buildup of a protein called tau in the brain, which is one of the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease.
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9. Cinnamon Is Loaded With Antioxidants
Antioxidants protect your body from oxidative damage caused by free radicals.
Cinnamon is loaded with powerful antioxidants, such as polyphenols. In fact, it is so powerful that cinnamon can be used as a natural food preservative
10. Helps To Treat Digestive Issues
Some people use cinnamon supplements to treatdigestive issues, diabetes, loss of appetite, and other conditions.
It also plays a role in traditional medicine for treating bronchitis.
Conclusion: 10 Health Benefits Of Cinnamon You Must Be Aware Of
Stated above are some health benefits of cinnamon that showed why it must not be overlooked.
Cinnamon is one of the most delicious and healthiest spices on the planet.
It can lower blood sugar levels, reduce heart disease risk factors and has a plethora of other impressive health benefits.
