Few aromas are as inviting as the smell of cinnamon wafting from a bakery or your kitchen. But how about cinnamon as a health food? Although cinnamon is suggested as a remedy for many ailments, no one really needs to take a "dose" of cinnamon for any proven medical reason. The National Institutes of Health advises that it's probably safe in the amounts normally used as a flavoring or health supplement, though in some cases, it could be harmful.
Cinnamon and Health
According to the National Institutes of Health, people use cinnamon in hopes of ending flatulence, purifying their blood, helping erectile dysfunction and curing colds --- although cinnamon has not been proven effective for these conditions or any others. There are many types of cinnamon. Ceylon cinnamon, along with Cassia or Chinese cinnamon, are used most often in Western countries, and Cassia cinnamon has shown promise as a remedy in some studies.
Doses and Hazards
A chemical called cinnamaldehyde, which may work against bacteria and fungi, is the ingredient in Cassia cinnamon that might have potential health benefits. Most people won't have side effects from taking in the small amounts of cinnamon in the average recipe or from the teaspoon or so of cinnamon used as a medicinal dose. The National Institutes of Health urges caution for people being treated for diabetes or liver disease and warns that large amounts of cinnamon could cause problems.
Cinnamon and Cholesterol
According to MayoClinic.com, a few "natural" remedies might help lower cholesterol, but there's not much evidence that cinnamon is one of them. However, it might be beneficial if you use it as a flavoring in place of sugar or salt. Better lifestyle changes to lower your cholesterol include losing weight, getting more exercise and eating heart-healthy foods, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Talk to your doctor before trying alternative-health remedies that claim to reduce your cholesterol.
Cinnamon and Diabetes
Some research studies have concluded that cinnamon might help lower blood glucose --- but other studies have found no benefit. The American Diabetes Association advises that amid the conflicting research, there is not enough evidence to suggest that adding cinnamon to their daily diets will help people who have diabetes. Instead, limit saturated and trans fats, watch your weight and keep your cholesterol and blood pressure under control.
References
- National Institutes of Health: Cassia Cinnamon
- Mayo Clinic: Cholesterol-Lowering Supplements
- Mayo Clinic: Does Cinnamon Lower Cholesterol Levels?
- American Diabetes Association: Is Cinnamon Helpful in Regulating Blood Glucose?
- Diabetes Care: Cinnamon Improves Glucose and Lipids of People With Type 2 Diabetes
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