Hormones and the endocrine system keep our body in a balanced state of homeostasis, which is why imbalances and fluctuations can trigger all kinds of symptoms. Fluctuating energy levels, infertility, sleep, appetite, oxidative stress, and endocrine disorders like thyroid disease are a few conditions that can result from hormonal imbalances.
Cinnamon is a spice that has been prized for its medicinal properties for thousands of years. It comes from the cinnamomum family tree's inner bark. The inner bark strips get dried in processing which lets the strips naturally curl into rolls known as cinnamon sticks. Then, these sticks can be ground into powder.
Here are 6 reasons to love cinnamon:
1️. Belly fat is a sign of an over-production of insulin, which takes excess sugar out of the blood and stores it in fat cells - predominantly on the abdomen. Cinnamon increases insulin sensitivity, decreasing blood sugar, and boosting metabolism. It can also delay gastric emptying, which helps people feel fuller longer. A study from 2017 found that taking 3g (1tsp) of cinnamon per day resulted in significant decreases in waist circumference compared with the placebo group (Lipids in Health and Disease).
2️. Numerous studies show that cinnamon regulates blood sugar, making it a great choice for diabetics and hypoglycemics alike. That's great news for anyone who wants stable energy levels and mood. Mood swings can happen when large surges of insulin remove so much sugar from the blood that energy dips dramatically. Cinnamon can help reduce sugar levels after eating, reducing over-production of insulin & resultant moodiness!
3️. Cinnamon is been proven effective for menstrual pain. Cramps and heavy flow have been found to significantly reduce in women taking Cinnamon vs a placebo in a study published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research in 2015.
4️. Periods and ovulation can become irregular or disappear when hormones are imbalanced, for instance with polycystic ovary syndrome. Cinnamon could help regulate hormones and menstrual cycle while also lower insulin levels in women with PCOS. A study from 2014 found that PCOS sufferers who consumed Cinnamon (1.5g/day) )had more frequent menstrual cycles & regular ovulation compared with the PCOS placebo group. (American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology).
5. Cinnamon is found to lower inflammation in the body. Inflammation is the underlying cause of most hormonal imbalances. It’s not surprising given that inflammation is triggered by stress (chemical, physical or emotional stress). And stress happens to be the one thing that throws the body off its natural balance. Therefore, stress also throws your hormones off balance. Cinnamon is known to be very effective at fighting inflammation, it contains cinnamaldehyde, which is responsible for its anti-inflammatory as well as anti-bacterial properties.
6. Skin flare-ups are often a result of hormonal fluctuations and an overreaction of the immune system, which Cinnamon’s powerful phytonutrients can calm down, helping to clear up redness and breakouts. In addition studies show that cinnamon may promote collagen formation and increase skin elasticity and hydration.
Not all Cinnamon is Created Equal
There are two main types of cinnamon: cassia cinnamon and Ceylon cinnamon. They have different taste palates, chemical compounds, nutritional profiles, and health benefits.
Ceylon cinnamon also known as “true” cinnamon, Ceylon cinnamon is native to Sri Lanka. Ceylon’s more fine texture makes it higher quality and more expensive than the common Cassia variety.
Cassia cinnamon is the most common variety you’ll find in the supermarket. Cassia cinnamon originated from southern China and grown in southeastern Asia. Cassia contains high levels of coumarin, a harmful compound that can cause liver, kidney, lung damage, and cancer in large doses. Ceylon contains negligible amounts of coumarin and is safer to consume.
Ceylon cinnamon is the type of cinnamon that has been found to provide various health benefits.
Most of the potential health benefits come from consuming 1/2 to 1 teaspoon (2-4. grams) of cinnamon a day.
There are countless ways to enjoy cinnamon while boosting your health!
Add to your warm drinks
Sprinkle on warm porridge, oatmeal or puddings
Add cinnamon to cakes, cookies, breads, and applesauce.
Add to your smoothie
Add to fresh fruits such as pears, and apples, peaches
Add to nuts with raw honey or maple syrup
Sprinkle on pancakes (you can also make cinnamon syrup by mixing pure maple syrup and cinnamon!)
Add to your cooking
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