Nutrition Corner - Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a spice that is made from the inner bark of trees scientifically known as Cinnamomum. Cinnamomum zeylacium. Cinnamon has a ton of antioxidants, like polyphenols. These can help your body avoid oxidative damage. The antioxidants in cinnamon are so strong that it can sometimes be used as a natural food preservative. If you want to reduce your sugar intake without compromising flavor, cinnamon is a great ingredient.

Scroll down for a downloadable document with more information about the health benefits of cinnamon, including research links, thank you.

1 tsp of Cinnamon contains

Calories: 6

Grams fat: 0

Carbohydrate: 2 g

Fiber: 1 g

Sodium: 0.26 mg

Sugar: 0 g

Protein: 0.1

Calcium: 26.1 mg

Iron: 0.21 mg

Magnesium: 1.56 mg

Phosphorus: 1.66 mg

Potassium: 11.2 mg Vitamin A: 0.39 mcg

The two main types of cinnamon are called Ceylon (also known as true cinnamon) and Cassia. Cassia is more common in the United States. Ceylon can be more expensive and can be harder to find. Ceylon cinnamon has a milder flavor.

Cinnamon has an effective anti-inflammatory. Researchers tested the phytochemicals found in cinnamon and discovered antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Angiogenesis is the formation of new blood vessels to feed tumors. One of the keys to treating cancer is to stop angiogenesis. Cinnamon can slow down or hold off angiogenesis, cell growth, and cellular signalling. This suggests that cinnamon could be a tool in preventing or treating cancer.

The compound cinnamaldehyde is responsible for cinnamon’s distinct odor and flavor. This phytochemical also has proven widespread antibiotic effects. Cinnamaldehyde was tested against several bacteria and viruses, including staphylococcus, E. coli, salmonella, and candida. Researchers found that it was able to prevent these bacteria from growing.

Cassia cinnamon contains a chemical called coumarin, which can be harmful to the liver when consumed at high levels for long periods. Cinnamon is loaded with powerful antioxidants, including polyphenols.

One study found that cinnamon supplementation could significantly increase antioxidant levels in the blood while reducing levels of markers used to measure inflammation, such as C-reactive protein Cinnamon has antioxidant, antibiotic, and anti inflammatory properties.

Cinnamon contains potassium, magnesium, and calcium. Potassium helps to counteract sodium’s effect on blood pressure and controls the heart rate. Magnesium and calcium work together to maintain a healthy heartbeat. These two minerals are also essential for skeletal health, preventing the weakening of bones.

Links for all studies mentioned can be found in the downloadable pdf below, thank you.

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CLICK BELOW TO DOWNLOAD THE NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION

Cinnamon.pdf

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