Cinnamon is a delicious and popular spice found in numerous recipes and baked goods. It is very high in cinnamaldehyde, the compound which scientists believe to be responsible for most of cinnamon’s powerful effects on health and metabolism.
Cinnamon’s large amounts of highly potent polyphenol antioxidants help fight inflammation. In one study comparing the antioxidant activity of 26 spices, cinnamon came out on top, even outperforming “superfoods” such as garlic and oregano.
Also, it has been linked to reduced risk of heart disease. Cinnamon lowers LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing HDL (good) cholesterol. It is also linked to improved blood pressure. When combined, these factors may reduce your risk of heart disease.
Cinnamon slows the breakdown of carbs in the digestive tract which lowers blood sugar and improves insulin sensitivity. Studies have shown that cinnamon can significantly lower fasting blood sugar in diabetics.
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