Cinnamon has been an integral part of traditional Asian cooking and is even more recurrent in Indian cooking. This traditional herb has also been found to contain antimicrobial, antiviral, antioxidant, antitumor, antihypertension, antilipemic (to treat high lipid levels), antidiabetic, gastroprotective (related to digestive system) and immunomodulatory (in restoring the immune system) properties. Recent research studies have tried to study the benefits of cinnamon in treating metabolic syndrome, one of the major factors responsible for Diabetes. The studies have found that consumption of cinnamon helps reduce excess body weight, reduce abdominal fat and regulate blood pressure and lower cholesterol levels.

Along with flavouring your favourite delicacy, regular consumption of cinnamon also helps in blood glucose control and prevents hypoglycaemia. Cinnamon also protects the heart from various complications such as cardiac arrest and regulates heart rate by managing blood pressure level. It also contains effective properties that protect the body from cancer. Long-term consumption of cinnamon helps regulate kidney and liver function and prevents inflammation.

Research studies have found that cinnamon lowers high LDL-C (bad cholesterol) and triglyceride level in people with Type 2 Diabetes.

Research studies in India have found that consuming 2-3 gm of cinnamon every day provides better health outcome. This traditional spice regulates metabolism and reduces insulin resistance in Diabetes. It also prevents heart related complications in Diabetes. Components of cinnamon help regulate insulin secretion. However, it is recommended that children below the age of 18 years, people on blood thinning medication, pregnant and lactating women should avoid consuming cinnamon.

Source: Lipids in Health and Disease, 2024