Cinnamon powder and cinnamon sticks are favourite ingredients in baked goods and hot drinks. Cinnamon rolls and mulled wine are just two examples of the foods people enjoy thanks to this spice.
However, cinnamon is also touted as a medical spice, with important health benefits. Exactly what health benefits of cinnamon are claimed? Does cinnamon have any harmful side effects?
The Health Benefits of Cinnamon Versus Type 2 Diabetes
People with type 2 diabetes, formerly known as "adult onset diabetes", are inefficient at using the insulin their bodies produce. The result is high blood sugar levels, which may lead to further health problems.
Eating cinnamon or taking cinnamon extracts has been linked to lowering these high blood sugar levels. Apparently cinnamon leads to better insulin effectiveness. "Cinnamon And Type 2 Diabetes" in the Pennington Nutrition series gives more details about some of these studies.
The above report also noted some reduction in "bad" LDL cholesterol in diabetics in at least one study. This benefits persons at risk of heart attack or stroke.
Other Oral Uses for Cinnamon
In "Cinnamon", K. Jayalath reports on a variety of other benefits.
Cinnamon in chewing gum, toothpaste or mouthwash help kill oral bacteria. A strong, hot cinnamon tea may sooth intestinal upsets and inhibit stomach ulcers.
"10 Health Benefits of Cinnamon" claims that cinnamon reduces blood clotting. A "blood thinner" could be of benefit to persons at risk of heart attacks.
The Active Ingredients in Cinnamon
The primary active flavour ingredient is cinnamaldehyde. Methylhydroxy chalcone polymer (MHCP) is the most active compound for blood sugar metabolism.
The Two Main Types of Cinnamon
Cinnamomum zeylanicum is often called "true" cinnamon. This tree is a native of Sri Lanka (Ceylon). Its spice has a quite sweet flavour.
In the United States another form is more popular, or perhaps simply more available since it is grown in China. The spice from Cinnamomum cassia is stronger in taste, and has a darker brown colour.
Either form of cinnamon, cassia or zeylonicum, is beneficial, although cassia is rated more highly in fighting type 2 diabetes. In North America, this means that a typical grocery store stocks the more medically-desirable version. Some people prefer the taste of zeylonicum cinnamon.
Health Concerns Regarding Cinnamon Allergies or Side Effects
Some people are allergic to cinnamon, as noted in "Allergy to Cinnamon". Jayalath makes a point of advising against consuming cinnamon oil, although he provides several other uses for this product.
The allergic reaction to cinnamon is usually seen as "contact dermatitis". The main symptom is a rash with some swelling and redness on the lips. A more severe reaction is difficulty breathing due to a constricted throat. Obviously, people suspecting that they are allergic to cinnamon should avoid eating it.
If cinnamon truly inhibits blood clotting, this can be a problem for people taking other blood thinners such as low-dose ASA or a warfarin drug. A doctor should be consulted by people taking such medications. Also, those planning on surgery should check whether they need to change their diet or medications ahead of time.
Cinnamon for Health and Taste
Cinnamon benefits most people who need some help in regulating blood sugar or cholesterol levels, as well as some with mild digestive upsets.
After noting the few cautions in the previous paragraph, cinnamon provides health benefits for people with type 2 diabetes, and may be helpful to others.
Certainly cinnamon has a role to simply "spice" up baked goods, curries and hot drinks.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
Sources:
- Heli J. Roy (PhD, RD) et. al., Pennington Nutrition Series, "Cinnamon And Type 2 Diabetes", edited Oct. 2009, PDF referenced May 12, 2011.
- Dr. Gerald (Gerry) Carr, University of Hawaii Botany Dept., "Lauraceae", referenced May 12, 2011.
- Health Diaries, "Allergy to Cinnamon", referenced May 12, 2011.
- Health Diaries, "10 Health Benefits of Cinnamon", referenced May 12, 2011.
- Kamanie Jayalath, CFT International, "Cinnamon", PDF referenced May 12, 2011.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
Mike DeHaan - Copyright (c) Mike DeHaan, B. Math., of DeHaan Services. Well written and well researched freelance articles; ghost writing for clients.
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