Cinnamon is a spice obtained from the inner bark of several tree species from the group Cinnamomum. This spice aroma and flavor are obtained from its essential oil and principal component called cinnamaldehyde. As well as numerous other constituents including eugenol.
Cinnamon is an evergreen tree with oval-shaped leaves, thick bark, and berry fruit. When the spice is harvested the bark and leaves are the primary parts of the plant used. There are two main types of cinnamon cassia and ceylon. Both of these contain different nutritional profiles. Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants and other beneficial compounds. According to research, it helps support blood sugar control, protects against heart disease, and reduces inflammation.
Nutritional Profile Of Cinnamon
1oo g of cinnamon contains the following nutritional value:
- Energy: 247 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 80.6 g
- Sugars: 2.2 g
- Dietary fiber: 53.1 g
- Fat: 1.2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Vitamin: 2%
- Vitamin B6: 0.16 mg
- Vitamin C: 3.8 mg
- Vitamin E: 2.3 mg
- Vitamin K: 31.2 mg
- Calcium: 1002 mg
- Iron: 8.3 mg
- Magnesium: 60 mg
- Phosphorus: 64 mg
- Potassium: 431 mg
- Sodium: 10 mg
- Zinc: 1.8 mg
Health Benefits of Cinnamon
1. Prevent bacterial and fungal infections
Cinnamon contains a main active component called cinnamaldehyde. This component can be beneficial against various kinds of infection. According to studies cinnamon oil can help kill certain fungi that cause respiratory tract infections. It may also inhibit the growth of certain bacteria such as Listeria and Salmonella. The antimicrobial effects of cinnamon can help prevent tooth decay and reduce bad breath.
2. Loaded with antioxidants
3. Lower blood sugar levels
Cinnamon is known for its blood-sugar-lowering properties. It can decrease the amount of sugar that enters your bloodstream after a meal by interfering with numerous digestive enzymes. That slows the breakdown of carbohydrates in your digestive tract. A compound present in cinnamon may mimic the effects of insulin to improve the uptake of sugar into the cells.
4. Improve sensitivity to insulin
Insulin is an essential hormone that regulates metabolism and energy use. It is crucial for transporting blood sugar from your bloodstream to your cells. Cinnamon can lower blood sugar levels and support better blood sugar control by increasing insulin sensitivity.
5. It may support gut health
Some spices such as cinnamon, have prebiotic properties. Consuming cinnamon regularly can help restore the balance of bacteria in your gut, support digestive health and alleviate digestive issues.
6. Promote dental hygiene
Cinnamon is used as a tooth powder to treat toothache as traditionally. It even treats other dental problems such as bacterial overgrowth and bad breath. The essential oils from cinnamon possess contains antibacterial properties. It can be used to naturally combat bacteria in the mouth, acting as a natural mouthwash.
7. Benefits of skin health
Cinnamon contains antibiotic and antimicrobial properties that benefit the skin. It helps protect the skin from irritation, rashes, allergic reactions, and infection. According to studies applying cinnamon essential oil directly to the skin can be helpful in reducing inflammation, swelling, pain, and redness.