Unlock the Potential of Cinnamon: 8 Effective uses in your weight loss journey

Cinnamon is a spice obtained from the inner bark of trees belonging to the genus Cinnamomum. It has several varieties, most common being Ceylon Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum or "true cinnamon") and Cassica Cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia). Cinnamon has a warm sweet taste and is known for its aromatic fragrance. It provides a sweet quick to any dish it is added.

For many centuries, cinnamon has been used for culinary and medicinal purposes, it has shown wide use in cooking and baking, adding flavours to variety of dishes, desserts, beverages, and savory recipes.

It’s potential health benefits include antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, it has also shown potential role in managing blood sugar levels, improving insulin sensitivity, and aiding in weight loss.

How does Cinnamon help in weight loss?

Cinnamon helps in weight loss in several ways; however results vary from individual to individual. Some ways in how cinnamon helps in weight loss are listed here:

Regulation of blood sugar levels

It improves insulin sensitivity and lowers blood sugar levels. This prevents spikes and crashes in energy levels, reducing the hunger and overeating

Enhanced metabolism

Cinnamon may have thermogenic effects, indicating that it could increase the body’s metabolic rate. Higher metabolic rate leads to increased calorie burning, consequently weight loss.

Appetite control

By helping in stabilising blood sugar levels, cinnamon plays a role in controlling the appetite.

Steady blood sugar levels reduce chances of sudden hunger and cravings for sugary, high calories foods.

Improved Digestion:

Cinnamon has been traditionally used to aid in digestion. Effective nutrient absorption, reduction in bloating or discomfort ensure weight management.

Antioxidant effects

Cinnamon contains antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress in the body. This may be beneficial for overall health and could indirectly support weight loss by promoting general well-being.

Cinnamon can be a flavorful and healthy addition to a balanced diet, it is not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle that includes regular physical activity and a well-rounded, nutritious diet.

Best Ways to Take Cinnamon for Weight Loss

There are many ways by which one can incorporate cinnamon in their daily lives. You can have it in your drinks, food and even your dessert. Some ways to do so are listed below.

Fresh Morning

Starting your day with a sprinkle of cinnamon in warm lemon water, tea or coffee enhances flavour as well as jumpstarts the metabolism. Add cinnamon sticks into your tea concoction, this keeps sugar cravings satisfied.

Breakfast enhancement

Adding some cinnamon to your oatmeal adds warmth to the bowl as well as regulate blood sugar levels, preventing energy crashes and sugar cravings later in the day.

Yogurt Delight

Mixing cinnamon with plain yogurt snack provides a burst of flavor, supports digestion and may help control appetite.

Fruit Infusion

Cinnamon can be added to your bowl of fruit and smoothies to bring out potential metabolic benefits.

Healthify your dessert

Cinnamon powder can replace sugar for weight loss and other health benefits. It can be used in muffins, cookies, bread and cinnamon rolls! This adds sweetness without adding extra calories and supports better blood sugar control.

Cinnamon Water

Water infused with cinnamon sticks can be sipped throughout the day. Drinking this water between meals will curb sweet cravings, promote hydration and provide potential metabolic benefits.

Vegetable Seasonings

Cinnamon is a low-calorie seasoning, it can be added to roasted sweet potato, carrots and bell pepper to add flavour and spice without adding any calories.

Cinnamon Supplements

For those who may not enjoy the taste of cinnamon, supplements in the form of capsules or powders are available. These can be a convenient way to incorporate cinnamon into your routine.

Can Cinnamon Be Combined With Other Natural Ingredients?

When combining cinnamon with other ingredients, it's important to consider personal preferences and potential health conditions. Cinnamon when combined with other natural ingredients, it creates a flavorful and potentially beneficial combination. Some of them are listed here:

Honey and Cinnamon

This creates an aromatic blend. When honey and cinnamon are added to warm water weight loss is a major benefit.

Cinnamon and ginger

This combination adds a rich spicy flavor as well as anti-inflammatory properties. This duo is commonly used in teas or as a spice blend for cooking.

Cinnamon and Turmeric

Porvides a rich earthy flavor, their potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Cinnamon and Lemon

Squeeze lemon juice and add a dash of cinnamon to water for a refreshing and detoxifying drink. Lemon may contribute to hydration and vitamin C content, while cinnamon adds flavor.

Cinnamon and Apple Cider Vinegar

This combination is beneficial for digestion and weight management. It is diluted in water.

Cinnamon and Nutmeg

Combining Cinnamon with nutmeg provides a warm and slightly sweet spice blend. This combination is often used in baking and desserts.

Cinnamon and Mint

Infuse water with cinnamon and fresh mint leaves for a refreshing and hydrating beverage. Mint may contribute to digestive comfort, and cinnamon adds a hint of warmth.

Other benefits of Cinnamon

Cinnamon is versatile spice used traditionally for flavor and potential health benefits. In addition to its potential role in weight management, cinnamon may offer various other health advantages.

Antioxidant Properties

Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants, which help neutralize free radicals in the body. Antioxidants play a role in protecting cells from oxidative stress and may contribute to overall health

Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Certain compounds in cinnamon, such as cinnamaldehyde, have anti-inflammatory properties. This may help mitigate inflammatory responses.

Improved Heart Health

cinnamon may have a positive impact on heart health by helping to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. This promotes overall cardiac health.

Blood Sugar Regulations

Cinnamon may have a potential to improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels. This is particularly relevant for individuals with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes.

Improved cognitive Function

Preliminary research indicates that cinnamon may have neuroprotective effects, potentially supporting cognitive function. However, more studies are needed to establish the extent of these benefits.

Anti-Microbial Properties

Cinnamon has natural antimicrobial properties and has been used traditionally to help prevent bacterial and fungal infections. It may contribute to oral health and be used as a natural food preservative.

Skin Health

The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of cinnamon may contribute to skin health. It may be used in skincare routines or topical applications for various skin conditions.

Mood Enhancement

There is some evidence to suggest that the aroma of cinnamon may have mood-enhancing effects. The scent may positively impact mood and alertness.

Side Effects Of Consuming Excessive Cinnamon

While cinnamon can offer various health benefits when consumed in moderation, excessive use can lead to potential adverse effects. Some of tehm are listed below:

Liver Damage

Cassia cinnamon, the more common variety found in grocery stores, contains coumarin, this can be harmful to the liver in large amounts. Prolonged and excessive consumption of coumarin has been linked to liver damage.

Allergic Reactions

Some individuals may be allergic to cinnamon, and excessive consumption can lead to allergic reactions such as skin rashes, itching, or difficulty breathing.

Stomach Issues

Excessive cinnamon intake may lead to gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Cinnamon has natural compounds that, when consumed in large quantities, can irritate the digestive system.

Blood Sugar Instability

While cinnamon is often promoted for its potential to regulate blood sugar, excessive consumption may have the opposite effect. Consuming very high doses of cinnamon may lead to blood sugar instability and negatively impact insulin sensitivity.

Blood Thinning

Coumarin in cinnamon can act as a blood thinner. Consuming too much cinnamon may increase the risk of bleeding, especially when combined with medications that have similar effects.

Ceylon Cinnamon is a better choice for those who enjoy incorporating cinnamon into their diet regularly as it has lower coumarin levels.

Visit Top 5 Unconventional Uses of Cinnamon Beyond Cooking to know more.

You can buy cinnamon from online stores as well as from your local vendor.