Cinnamon has been prized for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine, and more recently, researchers have realized cinnamon's ability to help control blood sugar and possibly treat diabetes. Some studies have also looked into cinnamon's ability to kill the bacteria that cause urinary tract infections, or UTIs. Researchers at the University of Connecticut found that the cinnamon ingredient trans-cinnamaldehyde prevented the growth of uropathogenic E. coli on urinary catheters used in hospitals. More research is still needed, but if you suffer from chronic UTIs, cinnamon might not be a bad spice to add to your diet.
Step 1
Pour 8 to 12 oz. of boiling water over one whole cinnamon stick and drink as tea 1 to 3 times a day. You can also use hot milk.
Step 2
Add 1/2 to 3 tsp. of ground cinnamon to your daily diet by stirring it into hot oatmeal, cold cereal or pancake batter. Sprinkle 1/4 tsp. over a half of a grapefruit or 1 sliced banana. Add 1/4 tsp. to your morning tea or coffee. Stir in 1/4 tsp. to plain yogurt.
Step 3
Take a cinnamon supplement, available at your local health food store. Take according to package directions.
Tips and Warnings
- If your condition does not improve within seven days, contact your physician.
- Do not use cinnamon as a supplement if you are pregnant or nursing.
References
- American Urological Association; "Antibiofilm effect of trans-cinnamaldehyde on uropathogenic Escherichia coli."; M.A. Amalaradjou et al; May 20, 2010
- National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Clearinghouse: Urinary Tract Infections in Adults
- Dr. Ray Sehalian: Cinnamon herb for blood sugar, diabetes, dosage, benefit and side effects
- Women's Health; "Cinnamon's Benefits"; Dec. 2007
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