Introduction: Cinnamon is the most used spice in garam masala, which has been used as a medicine since ancient times due to its numerous health benefits.
Cinnamon is obtained from the bark of a specific tree, this tree is mostly found in Asian and African countries, with Pakistan and Sri Lanka being the leading countries.
Cinnamon contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds:
Cinnamon also has superfood status as it contains more antioxidants than spices, which are considered essential for maintaining overall human health.
According to nutritionists, our body is full of harmful substances that we need antioxidants to fight against, while antioxidants such as polyphenols actually prevent the formation of molecules that are harmful to our body.
According to one study, when compared to 26 spices for antioxidants, cinnamon was the clear winner, even surpassing superfood ginger.
1: Cinnamon Nutritionally
According to the American Department of Agriculture, two and a half grams of cinnamon contains six and a half grams of calories, 2 grams of carbohydrates, iron, calcium and magnesium.
In addition, cinnamon contains phosphorus, potassium, vitamin A, vitamin B and vitamin K, as well as antioxidants such as choline, alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, lycopene, and lutein
Each 100 grams of which contains about 53.3 grams of fiber.
Other health benefits of using cinnamon include:
Lowers blood pressure and blood lipid levels
Cinnamon is considered an effective treatment for high blood pressure.
According to medical research, the use of cinnamon is beneficial for lowering blood pressure because its natural and effective components like magnesium play a role in lowering blood pressure.
According to medical experts, patients with high blood pressure can use half a spoon of cinnamon every day to get relief from the disease.
Blood pressure and cholesterol patients can also use a mixture of honey and cinnamon, take a small spoon of honey and add a small spoon of cinnamon powder and drink this mixture in half a glass of water, it will keep your cholesterol level low.
2: Helpful in preventing chronic diabetes
Cinnamon, if used with a balanced diet, helps to keep the sugar level normal, which reduces the risk of diseases like diabetes and if diabetes has already occurred, the symptoms of this disease do not intensify with the use of cinnamon.
3: How to use cinnamon?
Cinnamon can be used as a spice on foods or as a supplement, cinnamon supplements can be taken in divided doses throughout the day or taken with food.
An easy way to increase your intake of cinnamon in your diet is to add this spice to your favorite foods, snacks, and beverages.
Cinnamon can also be added to dishes like porridge, smoothies, chia pudding, and soups to enhance flavor.
4: Caution:
Cinnamon is usually eaten mixed with food.
Research has shown that one to two grams of cinnamon per day is safe for up to three months.
It has also been found to be safe in doses of three to six grams for up to six weeks.
If you are taking cinnamon supplements to help with a specific medical condition, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider to determine an appropriate and safe dosage.
Adverse effects of excess cinnamon on health
The use of cinnamon generally has health benefits and very few side effects have been reported that are worth discussing.
According to medical experts, excess consumption of cinnamon can cause headache, burning sensation in the chest and stomach, bloating, stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea etc.
If you experience any of the above effects, stop using cinnamon, taking cinnamon supplements, and contact a physician as soon as these symptoms appear.