A general practitioner suggests that including cinnamon in our daily diets can offer numerous important health advantages. Dr. Amir Khan, recognized for his presence on television programs like Lorraine, shared on TikTok why he considers cinnamon to be one of his preferred spices.
He explained in a video that the distinct aroma and taste of cinnamon come from its oily component, which is rich in a compound known as cinnamaldehyde. This compound is believed by scientists to be responsible for many of the potent and beneficial health effects of cinnamon. Dr. Khan also mentioned that cinnamon is packed with plant antioxidants called polyphenols, which safeguard our bodies from harmful free radicals that can harm DNA.
Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cellular DNA when they accumulate, stemming from various factors such as air pollution, smoking, X-ray exposure, and an inadequate diet. The doctor further stated that cinnamon can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of heart disease. He supported this claim by referencing a study review that found cinnamon may lower harmful fats like triglycerides and decrease overall cholesterol levels.
Furthermore, Dr. Khan highlighted that cinnamon has been associated with reducing blood pressure and is renowned for its ability to lower blood sugar levels. He explained that cinnamon can limit the amount of sugar entering the bloodstream after a meal by slowing down sugar breakdown in the gut and imitating insulin effects to facilitate sugar uptake by cells.
To incorporate more cinnamon into one’s diet, the doctor suggested adding it to porridge or including a teaspoon of the spice in home-cooked meals. Users on TikTok expressed their fondness for cinnamon, with one individual mentioning taking cinnamon tablets daily alongside other vitamins for migraines. Another person admitted using cinnamon in various dishes like cakes, porridge, waffles, and pancakes, often combined with ground flaxseeds.
For those interested in using the most researched type of cinnamon in cooking, WebMD recommends seeking out Ceylon cinnamon, also known as “true cinnamon,” due to its higher content of potentially beneficial plant compounds. The article mentioned that while there is no standardized dose for cinnamon, experts typically suggest consuming 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of powder per day, with some studies using up to 6 grams of cinnamon. However, caution is advised against high doses of cinnamon, which could be toxic.
Regarding safety considerations, the article warned against consuming large amounts of Ceylon cinnamon during pregnancy. It emphasized that cinnamon is not proven as a treatment and that individual tolerance levels may vary.