Dear food people,
In this series of articles, we challenge ourselves to explain shocking food facts in the simplest way possible and within just 1-minute, so you can learn to make wiser food choices each week!
Always remember, FOOD IS MEDICINE.. and if you eat right, you might even find yourself losing some excess weight without breaking a sweat.
Now, let’s get to it~
CINNAMON
Cinnamon, a spice long cherished for its warm, sweet flavour, has also captured the attention of the scientific community for its potential health benefits, particularly in managing blood sugar levels. This aromatic spice, derived from the inner bark of trees from the Cinnamomum genus, is rich in bioactive compounds, the most notable being cinnamaldehyde.
Cinnamaldehyde is responsible not only for cinnamon’s distinct scent and flavour but also for its impressive medicinal properties.
One of the key areas where cinnamon has shown promise is in the management of type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is characterised by the body's reduced sensitivity to insulin, the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels. Insulin helps cells absorb glucose from the bloodstream, where it can be used for energy or stored for future use. When the body becomes resistant to insulin, blood sugar levels can rise, leading to various health complications.
Research has indicated that cinnamon may enhance insulin sensitivity, thereby improving the body's ability to manage blood sugar levels. This means that cells are better equipped to take up glucose from the bloodstream, reducing overall blood sugar levels.
Additionally, cinnamon may also play a role in slowing down the breakdown of carbohydrates in the digestive tract. By inhibiting certain digestive enzymes, cinnamon can decrease the rate at which glucose enters the bloodstream after a meal, thereby preventing the sharp spikes in blood sugar that can occur.
Therefore, cinnamon's benefits for managing blood sugar levels extend beyond its delightful flavour. Its ability to enhance insulin sensitivity and slow carbohydrate breakdown makes it a valuable ally in preventing blood sugar spikes, especially for those managing type 2 diabetes.
Here are Some Scientific Facts on Cinnamon:
Reduction in Fasting Blood Sugar: A meta-analysis of 10 clinical trials published in the Journal of Medicinal Food in 2011 found that cinnamon consumption led to a statistically significant reduction in fasting blood sugar levels, with an average decrease of approximately 24 mg/dL.
Improvement in Insulin Sensitivity: A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 2007 demonstrated that cinnamon improved insulin sensitivity by approximately 20% in individuals with insulin resistance.
Reduction in Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c): Research published in Diabetes Care in 2003 showed that participants with type 2 diabetes who consumed 1 to 6 grams of cinnamon daily for 40 days experienced a significant reduction in HbA1c levels (a marker of long-term blood sugar control) by an average of 0.83%.
Decrease in Postprandial Blood Glucose: A study published in the European Journal of Clinical Investigation in 2006 indicated that cinnamon reduced postprandial blood glucose levels (blood sugar levels after meals) by 18-29% in patients with type 2 diabetes.
5 Popular Dishes You Can Prepare at Home:
Cinnamon Rolls – Soft, sweet rolls swirled with cinnamon and topped with a rich cream cheese icing.
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal – A warm and hearty breakfast made with oats, apples, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Cinnamon-Spiced Hot Chocolate – A cosy drink blending the warmth of cinnamon with rich, creamy hot chocolate.
Cinnamon Sugar Cookies – Crisp, buttery cookies with a hint of cinnamon, perfect for a sweet treat.
Moroccan Chicken with Cinnamon – A savoury dish combining chicken with cinnamon, cumin, and other spices for a flavourful meal.
The information provided in our articles is for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The content on our website, including articles, is not meant to endorse or promote any specific medical treatments, products, or procedures. The information provided is based on general knowledge and research at the time of writing. Medical practices and knowledge are constantly evolving, and what may have been accurate at the time of publication may not be current or applicable today.