HC's "Top 10" -- Cinnamon

Cinnamon is every bit as healthy as it is delicious. It contains many compounds that help the body to function better, such as anthocyanins, which contribute to capillary health; phytochemicals that fight off problematic intestinal bacteria like candida; compounds that may reduce the incidence of ulcers; and compounds that reduce inflammation which may help with joint, muscle, and menstrual pain.1 Cinnamon, as a carminative, also helps with digestion and can relieve gas and stomach pain.1

Probably one of the best known health benefits of cinnamon, and the one that has the USDA’s attention, is its ability to stabilize and lower blood sugar.1 The phytochemicals, chalcone polymers, are responsible for raising the cells’ ability to metabolize glucose by twenty times by imitating the body’s insulin behavior.1 In one study, cinnamon also helped to lower cholesterol in people with type II diabetes and there is promising evidence pointing to cinnamon’s potential ability to lower blood pressure.1

According to a research scientist at the USDA, the most effective way for type II diabetics to lower blood sugar with cinnamon is to put 3 tablespoons of ground cinnamon and approximately 3/4 tsp of baking soda in a 32-ounce jar; fill the jar with boiling water; let it cool; strain, keeping only the the liquid; and put it in the refrigerator for later consumption.1 She suggests drinking about 9-ounces of the tea four times per day, dropping down to one or two cups a day after one to three weeks.1 People with type I diabetes are advised to drink one or two cups per day in the beginning and then increase each week by one cup.1 Anyone following these methods should keep an eye on their glucose levels.1

Cinnamon can be incorporated into the diet it many ways.  It can be used as a topping for oatmeal, as well as  baked acorn and butternut squashes.  It can be sprinkled on whole grain toast or berries.  It can be added to coffee, herbal tea, or apple cider.  Get creative and enjoy this wonderful warming and healthful spice!

1Bowden, J. (2007). The 150 healthiest foods on earth: the surprising, unbiased truth about what you should eat and why. Beverly, MA: Fair Winds Press.