Benefits of Cinnamon

Anti-inflammation

Cinnamon is an effective anti-inflammatory. Researchers tested the phytochemicals found in cinnamon and discovered antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. In one study, certain cinnamon compounds also targeted free radicals with promising results. 

Cancer prevention             

Angiogenesis is the formation of new blood vessels to feed tumors. One of the keys to treating cancer is to stop angiogenesis. A study showed that cinnamon can slow down or hold off angiogenesis, cell growth, and cellular signaling. This suggests that cinnamon could be a tool in preventing or treating cancer.

Antibiotic properties

The compound cinnamaldehyde is responsible for cinnamon’s distinct odor and flavor. This phytochemical also has proven widespread antibiotic effects. Cinnamaldehyde was tested against several bacteria and viruses, including staphylococcus, E. coli, salmonella, and candida. Researchers found that it was able to prevent these bacteria from growing.

Protection from oxidative stress

Cinnamon has a ton of antioxidants, like polyphenols. These can help your body avoid oxidative damage. The antioxidants in cinnamon are so strong that it can sometimes be used as a natural food preservative. 

Experts have seen that taking cinnamon supplements can boost antioxidant levels in your blood as well as lower inflammation markers.

Heart disease prevention

Cinnamon could lower your triglycerides and your total cholesterol levels, which could help prevent heart disease. If you take supplements with at least 1.5 grams of cinnamon a day, it may lower your total cholesterol, LDL (or bad) cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood sugar if you have metabolic disease.

It may also lower blood pressure if you consistently take it for 7 weeks.

Cinnamon also might help with:

• Alzheimer’s disease
• HIV
• Tooth decay
• Allergies

But studies are limited or have only been done in cells or animals.

Getting normal amounts of cinnamon isn’t likely to have a big impact on your health. It’s not a good idea to eat a lot of it either.

Because cinnamon is unproven as a treatment, there isn’t a set dose. Some experts suggest 1/2 to 1 teaspoon (2-4 grams) of powder a day. Some studies have used between 1 gram and 6 grams of cinnamon. High doses might be toxic.