Today, let's talk about the flavourful and fragrant world of cinnamon. Beyond its delicious taste, cinnamon offers some impressive health benefits that might surprise you.
Some of the Benefits of Cinnamon:
Blood Sugar Control: Cinnamon has a knack for helping regulate blood sugar levels, making it a boon for those with diabetes or at risk of developing it. It improves insulin sensitivity and lowers blood sugar spikes after meals.
Antioxidant Powerhouse: Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants that fight free radicals, reducing oxidative stress in your body and potentially lowering your risk of chronic diseases.
Heart Health: This aromatic spice may lower bad cholesterol (LDL) levels and triglycerides while supporting good cholesterol (HDL). It also helps reduce blood pressure, promoting overall cardiovascular health.
Anti-Inflammatory: Cinnamon's anti-inflammatory properties can soothe inflammation and may be beneficial for conditions like arthritis.
Brain Health: Some studies suggest that cinnamon may enhance cognitive function and memory, making it a brain-boosting spice.
Treating Cancer & Tumors : Several medical research papers reference cinnamon's effect on Apoptosis and what this means for patients treating cancer. Cinnamon has been examined for its impact on apoptosis-related pathways in cancer cells.
Choosing the Right Cinnamon Supplements:
When considering cinnamon supplements for long-term health benefits, opt for these types:
Ceylon Cinnamon: Also known as "true cinnamon," Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) is the preferred choice. It contains lower levels of coumarin, a compound that can be harmful in large amounts.
Cinnamon Extracts: Look for high-quality cinnamon extracts in supplement form. They provide a concentrated dose of active compounds.
Capsules or Tablets: Supplements in capsule or tablet form are convenient and allow for precise dosage.
Certified Brands: Choose supplements from reputable brands with third-party testing to ensure quality and purity.
An example of concentrated Ceylon Cinnamon extract capsules. Source: https://pipingrock.com/en-AU/products/ceylon-cinnamon-2000-mg-150-quick-release-capsules
From Everyday Supplement to a Once in a Lifetime (Hopefully) Saviour
Remember, while cinnamon supplements can offer health benefits, they're not a magic solution. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and overall healthy lifestyle choices are crucial for your well-being. If you have any underlying health conditions or concerns, it's wise to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen. So, why not embrace the sweet and spicy goodness of cinnamon as a natural addition to your wellness routine. Whether sprinkled on your morning oatmeal or taken as a supplement, cinnamon can be a delicious and healthful way to spice up your life!
We touched on the fact that cinnamon is known for its various pharmacological functions, including anti-oxidant, anti-microbial, and even anti-cancer activities, which we wanted to explore further as so many of our friends and families are being affected by cancer.
Cinnamon and Cancer
Cancer is a prevalent global health concern, with increasing incidence attributed largely to lifestyle changes and adapting to increased toxicity. There has been much written about the potential of herbal medicines, particularly focusing on cinnamon, either alone or in combination with chemotherapy drugs, as a therapeutic approach in cancer treatment. Cinnamon, known for its various pharmacological functions, including anti-oxidant, anti-microbial, and anti-cancer activities, has ben examined for its impact on apoptosis-related pathways in cancer cells.
Cancer poses a significant threat to global health, marked by the unregulated proliferation of cells leading to the formation of tumors. The intricate process of apoptosis, or programmed cell death, is disrupted in cancer, allowing abnormal cells to persist. Cinnamon, a traditional herbal medicine, has the potential to modulate neoplastic processes, and research has been focussed on its effects on apoptosis-related mechanisms.
Apoptosis and Cancer: Dysregulation of apoptosis, a fundamental process in cell death, contributes significantly to tumor pathogenesis. In cancer, the balance between cell division and death is disrupted, allowing abnormal cells to evade programmed cell death signals.
Cinnamon's Impact on Apoptosis: Cinnamon, recognized for its diverse biological properties, including anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory activities, is explored for its potential in influencing apoptosis. Studies suggest that cinnamon and its derivatives may affect apoptosis progression in various cancers by targeting specific biochemical signaling pathways.
As the global cancer rates continue to rise, and our current arsenal of cancer treatments faces its fair share of limitations, there's a growing curiosity about alternative approaches. In this landscape, cinnamon steps into the spotlight with its natural compounds that seem to have anti-tumor properties. There is hope (and research to show) the spice we've been adding in our recipes and taking as supplements might have some untapped potential in the world of cancer treatment.
Nature Provides Hope
Cinnamon, with its natural compounds exhibiting anti-tumor properties, emerges as a potential candidate for further exploration. It's not a call to overhaul everything we know, but studies like the one referenced above, serve as encouragement to keep peeling back the layers of natural supplements’ potential.
So, here's to cinnamon and her friends found in the spice rack, and the potential wonders they might hold in our pursuit of a better way to live healthily and fight serious illness. Stay well readers.