Like Taylor Swift’s latest romance, Cinnamon is this season’s standout spice. It offers more than flavor and aroma, potentially benefiting blood sugar, insulin resistance, blood pressure, cholesterol, and inflammation. While studies are ongoing, experts recommend about 1/2 teaspoon per day. Cinnamon shows promise for conditions like Type 2 diabetes and obesity. Registered dietitian Toby Smithson notes its potential but advises caution. Studies on A1C levels have been inconclusive. While exact dosages are yet to be determined, experts suggest using cinnamon regularly as a spice for its potential health benefits.
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Choose Your Cinnamon Wisely
Selecting the appropriate cinnamon is crucial. Ceylon and Cassia are the primary varieties. Cassia contains elevated levels of coumarin, which may pose risks to the liver. Therefore, it’s advised to prefer Ceylon. Exercise caution with Vietnamese cinnamon due to its notably high coumarin content, especially for individuals with specific health considerations. Making an informed choice about your cinnamon can contribute to a healthier consumption experience.
Best Practices For Cinnamon Consumption
“Dr. Dansinger advises against relying solely on cinnamon rolls or supplements for diabetes or health. He stresses integrating cinnamon into a balanced diet. A comprehensive healthy eating plan is crucial for long-term health. He also cautions about unregulated cinnamon capsules. Julia Zumpano recommends consulting a healthcare provider or dietitian for proper cinnamon supplement dosages. She emphasizes choosing third-party tested brands for safety and efficacy, mentioning sites like ConsumerLab.com, NSF, or Fullscript.”
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Incorporating More Cinnamon Into Your Diet
Registered dietitian nutritionist Amy Gorin suggests adding cinnamon to coffee, desserts, and soup. She also notes that cinnamon is rich in satiating fiber, with just one teaspoon providing over a gram. Registered dietitian nutritionist Chelsey Amer recommends using cinnamon to add flavor without extra sugar, reducing overall sugar intake. To incorporate more cinnamon, sprinkle it on oatmeal or in your morning coffee. Dietitian Michael C. Williams suggests adding it to breakfast baked goods and pairing it with various spices and ingredients for enhanced flavor.