Ceylon Cinnamon is another impressive superfood that has taken the health food market by storm. Much of this is down to its delicious flavour, but its ability to improve certain aspects of your health also plays a large part in its popularity. But how is Ceylon Cinnamon so effective?
A love for Ceylon Cinnamon
Many people have fallen in love with this superfood because of its warm, sweet and softly spiced flavour that is a perfect match for many sweet and savoury dishes.
The popularity of this tasty ingredient has continued to grow as news of its health benefits become more widely known. Ceylon Cinnamon can help you boost your antioxidant levels, reduce swelling, combat infections and even boost brain power.
Antioxidant rich
Ceylon Cinnamon is packed full of antioxidants. These compounds play an important role in helping our bodies fight free radicals and unwanted toxins that could cause us harm.
Much like with superfoods such as Cacao, many people are unaware of the high levels of antioxidants that are contained within Ceylon Cinnamon.
Researchers have identified several compounds in Ceylonn Cinnamon that effectively protect the body and prevent disease – with antioxidant levels that far outweigh other spices such as garlic or oregano.
Reduces swelling
Various studies have reported the anti-inflammatory ability of Cinnamon. While swelling is a natural reaction from the body when it is faced with damage or injury, it can be incredibly harmful in the long-term if left unmanaged.
Superfoods like Ceylon Cinnamon reduce swelling in a natural way that could help you avoid long-term health issues like heart disease, diabetes and even cancer.
Regulates blood sugar
Certain studies suggest that Ceylon Cinnamon is effective at improving blood glucose and cholesterol levels in people with diabetes. It does this by reducing the amount of glucose that enters the bloodstream after eating, as well as mimicking the effects of insulin.
This can be an effective tool in reducing the risk factors associated with diabetes and an easy way to manage the fluctuating blood sugar levels that can be highly dangerous if left unmanaged.
Improve brain function
Many people also believe that Cinnamon enhances cognitive processing, attention and memory.
A 2011 study even suggested that Cinnamon’s positive effect might be useful in preventing neurodegenerative issues such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis. Together with other spices such as Ginger and Turmeric, the reason for this is said to be their ability to target inflammatory pathways.
Choose the right kind of Cinnamon
There are two types of Cinnamon: Cassia and Ceylon. This sometimes causes confusion amongst those new to the superfood. While they both lend an equally delicious taste to anything they are added to, only Ceylon Cinnamon comes with the true health benefits that many people search for.
Most of what you find in the supermarket will be Cassia, so if you are looking to truly benefit from Ceylon Cinnamon, then make sure you source your product from a reliable health food store or online retailer that will provide you with the greater of the two Cinnamon types.
