The Health Attributes Of Honey & Cinnamon

The sweet flavors of cinnamon and honey are used to sweeten dessert items, teas and for cooking purposes. Not only do these enhance the flavor of food and beverages, they also offer several health attributes. Blood sugar stabilization, a decrease high blood pressure and cholesterol, and topical use for infections are among the benefits provided by cinnamon and honey. Consult your doctor before using honey and cinnamon as a complementary healing method.

Blood Sugar

Insulin is a hormone produced in the pancreas that regulates your glucose levels. People with diabetes do not produce enough insulin, which increases the likelihood of excess glucose in the bloodstream. According to a Penn State University study in 2003, subjects who took cinnamon capsules for 40 days saw a reduction in blood sugar by up to 29 percent. Honey is a natural sugar, unlike refined sugars, that may also lower blood sugar, but more research is necessary to confirm this effect.

Cholesterol & High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure and cholesterol may be the result of many factors. Age, diet, activity level, stress and genetics are among the most common. However, cinnamon and honey may help decrease cholesterol levels and high blood pressure. According to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, the use of cinnamon and honey reduces low-density lipoprotein, or "bad" cholesterol, as well as triglycerides when consumed every day. According to a 2006 study in the "Journal of the American College of Nutrition" 6 g of cinnamon daily may decrease high blood pressure.

Weight Loss

A 2007 study in medical journal "Diabetes Care" found that small doses of 1, 3 and 6 g of cinnamon daily improved insulin sensitivity and reduced fasting glucose levels. Your body increases fat storage if it experiences insulin resistance, or the need for more insulin to carry glucose to your cells. Better insulin sensitivity means a reduction in fat storage. Honey is a rich source of carbs and natural sugars, which increases energy levels and endurance for more physical activity and longer workouts.

Infections

Most uses for honey and cinnamon involve internal consumption, but both can be used externally to treat skin wounds. Honey offers a natural source of antibacterial protection and contains antimicrobial properties to reduce inflammation as well as the likelihood for infection. Cinnamon has also been used as treatment for skin infections. Do not use honey or cinnamon on top of a wound without consulting your physician first.