Doctor of Science on the Incredible Benefits of a Little Spice Stick: What Cinnamon Lovers Get, and What Dislike Loses

History

Cinnamon is one of the oldest and best-known spices in all of history. It is mentioned in the Bible and is used in ancient Egypt not only as a fragrance for drinks and medicine, but also as a balm. In the old days, cinnamon was very expensive, even more expensive than gold. In China, cinnamon is mentioned in 2700. pr. Kr. – in one of the first books of Chinese botanical medicine. Due to its demand, cinnamon became one of the first commodities to be traded regularly between the Middle East and Europe.

Health benefits

The unique health-enhancing properties of cinnamon are ensured by the three main components of the essential oils in cinnamon bark: cinnamaldehyde, cinnamyl acetate, and cinnamyl alcohol. Scientists believe that the most powerful effect on human health is cinnamaldehyde, which, along with other polyphenols from the cinnamon bark (mainly procyanidins and catechins in the bark), has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Antioxidants protect our body from the effects of harmful free radicals. Excess free radicals are formed under the influence of stress, improper nutrition and physical activity, as well as harmful habits, environmental pollution and radiation. Excess free radicals activate inflammatory processes in the body, and predominant inflammatory processes increase the risk of developing chronic diseases.

Cinnamon can improve some of the main risk factors for heart disease: lower low-density lipoprotein (also known as bad) cholesterol, triglyceride levels, blood pressure, and increase high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (cholesterol). Okay”). Due to its antioxidant effect, cinnamon has been shown to increase insulin sensitivity while lowering blood sugar. The powerful component in cinnamon, cinnamaldehyde, has antifungal and antibacterial properties that can help fight cavities and bad breath. Due to the effects on cancer and neurodegenerative symptoms, there is a significant lack of human studies, only animal studies.

Nutritional value

2 teaspoons (or 6 g) of cinnamon:
Carbohydrates – 4.19 g
Fiber – 2.76 g
Protein – 0.21 g
Fat – 0.06 g
Mangano – 45.4%
Vitamin K – 2%.
Energy value – 12.84 kcal

It is recommended to consume 1-2 teaspoons (1-6 g) of cinnamon per day.

Storage

Like other dried spices, try to choose organically grown cinnamon, because this will ensure that it has not been irradiated. Cinnamon should be stored in a tightly closed glass container in a cool, dark and dry place. Ground cinnamon will last for about six months, and cinnamon sticks can keep fresh for about a year. You can extend the shelf life of cinnamon by storing it in the refrigerator. To check if it is still fresh, smell the cinnamon. If it no longer smells sweet, then it is no longer fresh and should be discarded.

Some people are allergic to cinnamaldehyde in cinnamon, and consuming it in large amounts can lead to mouth ulcers. A small amount of spices does not cause such a reaction, since saliva prevents the cinnamon compounds from coming into contact with the oral mucosa for too long. Cinnamon allergy can occur with a swollen tongue or gums, a burning or itching sensation, white patches on the tongue or on the oral mucosa.

Cinnamon, due to its texture, is easy to inhale unexpectedly and can cause coughing, difficulty recovering the smell. The cinnamaldehyde in cinnamon, if consumed in excess, can irritate the throat and cause additional respiratory problems. Therefore, people with asthma should be especially careful when taking cinnamon. Additionally, large amounts of cinnamon can enhance the effects and side effects of some medications.

Correctly selected and used cinnamon will strengthen your body and give the dishes you prepare a special taste and smell. Enjoy this spice and at the same time heal your body.

Sandrija Čapkauskienė – Doctor of Biomedical Sciences, Associate Professor at LSU and Nutritionist.