This pungent spice is a staple in every kitchen cabinet. It’s a holiday favorite and an every day treat. But most of us don’t know that it can also help control blood sugar, boost memory, knock out infections and even prevent cancer.
We all need more—and it’s tasty, too!
Of course, I’m talking about cinnamon. We’ve all savored cinnamon on oatmeal, cinnamon toast in milk for an upset tummy and the spicy zest of pumpkin pie redolent with cinnamon. Cinnamon is truly the spice of my life!
And who knew such a delightful taste would pack in so many health benefits?
Here are some of the most impressive science-backed health benefits of getting half a teaspoon of cinnamon or more a day:
Lowers blood sugar: Research shows that cinnamon slows stomach emptying, stopping the sharp rise in blood sugar after meals. Several studies show cinnamon reduces blood sugar levels and improves insulin sensitivity.
Protects against side effects of Type 2 diabetes: A University of Georgia study shows that cinnamon prevents tissue damage and inflammation caused by high blood sugars, protecting against the dire side effects of diabetes, including hardening of the arteries.
Fights cancer: A USDA study shows that cinnamon slowed the growth of leukemia and lymphoma cells.
Brain booster: Just smelling cinnamon can improve short-term memory, and eating it daily significantly improves brain function, visual-motor responses and attention. One study from the Agricultural Research Service found that cinnamon can prevent brain swelling often seen after a traumatic brain injury or a stroke.
Fights infections: Cinnamon has proven antibacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal and anti-parasitic properties, meaning it can knock out all types of infections.
Eases arthritis pain: Cinnamon is a storehouse of anti-inflammatory compounds that ease the pain and inflammation of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. A Danish study showed that arthritis sufferers found relief with a tablespoon of honey mixed with half a teaspoon of cinnamon every day.
Thins blood: Cinnamon contains a compound called cinnamaldehyde, which helps prevent unwanted clotting of blood platelets. It also increases circulation.
Headache relief: It is an effective remedy for headaches and particularly for migraines.
Balances hormones: An effective treatment for menstrual pain and infertility. The cinnamaldehyde in cinnamon is study-proven to increase the production of progesterone and decreases the production of testosterone in women, helping to balance hormones.
Reduce blood pressure: A study conducted by the American College of Nutrition shows cinnamon helps reduce blood pressure in people with diabetes and reduces systolic pressure (the top number) in people without diabetes.
The type of cinnamon you find in your grocery store is actually cassia cinnamon and it’s fine for all of the above purposes. If a little is good, that doesn’t mean you should take a lot. High doses can cause irritation of the lips and mouth and extremely high doses can cause liver problems. If you are a diabetic, you may discover that meds will need to be adjusted as your blood sugars improve, but please do this in conjunction with your doctor. Cinnamon may also interact with other prescription medications, so this is another reason to work with your doctor to get right dose of all medications.
In the meantime, a little bit of cinnamon sprinkled in your coffee, on your toast or in your oatmeal, will do your health a favor.
This pungent spice is a staple in every kitchen cabinet. It’s a holiday favorite and an every day treat. But most of us don’t know that it can also help control blood sugar, boost memory, knock out infections and even prevent cancer. 
A great, natural antioxidant.