Cinnamon
At a certain point in human history,
cinnamon was even more valuable than gold. It’s one of the oldest-known
spices, and can offer a whole range of benefits to human health. Here
are the top 10 health benefits of cinnamon:
1. Control blood sugar levels
Studies have shown that cinnamon has a special ability to help diabetics
with insulin resistance to control their blood sugar levels. In fact,
such people usually take cinnamon in the form of a tea or take it as a
supplement.
2. Reduce levels of LDL cholesterol and
triglycerides
Cinnamon can indirectly lower cholesterol by having an impact on how the
body processes sugar and fat. When cinnamon is consumed, it decreases
the level of bad, or LDL, cholesterol in the body. Doing so also
decreases triglycerides.
3. Prevent Alzheimer’s disease
A cinnamon extract named CEppt has been shown to have a positive effect
on the prevention of Alzheimer’s. This is believed to be down to two
compounds contained in cinnamon, namely epicatechin and cinnameldeyde.
Cinnamon also prevents the growth of filamentous tangles associated with
Alzheimer’s.
4. Stop medication-resistant yeast infections
Yeast infections are troublesome things that can be really hard to get
rid of. In fact, some of them are completely medication-resistant,
making life a nightmare for a person that’s unlucky enough to get one.
Cinnamon has the amazing ability to clear these infections due to its
antiseptic, antiviral and antifungal properties.
5. Boost brain function
Mental clarity and alertness can be boosted drastically through the
consumption of cinnamon. Just smelling this spice’s wonderful odor has
been shown to boost brain activity, enhancing cognitive function and
improving brain functions related to virtual recognition memory,
attention and working memory.
6. Protect against heart disease
Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties, therefore it is ideal for
protecting the human heart and surrounding arteries from infection and
damage. Toxins, plaque and cholesterol can build up in the arteries,
leading to cardiovascular disease and other heart problems. Cinnamon can
alleviate the risks posed as a result of the build-up of these
“nasties” inside the heart and arteries.
7. Improve blood circulation
Blood circulation can be improved by consuming cinnamon, and this is
because it contains a compound that can thin out the blood. Good blood
circulation equals a good oxygen supply to the human body’s cells, thus
leading to higher metabolic activity. Another positive effect is the
reduction of heart attack risk.
8. Relieve pain
The anti-inflammatory properties of cinnamon can help to alleviate
muscle and joint stiffness. In fact, it is recommended for athletes and
those who suffer from arthritis. It’s also good at abolishing headaches
brought on by colds.
9. Prevent development of cancer
Cancer cells can be prevented from growing by adding cinnamon to a
regular diet. It has been shown to be particularly effective at reducing
leukemia and lymphoma cell growth.
10. Natural form of birth control
Regular cinnamon consumption after childbirth is an excellent, natural
option for birth control. This is because cinnamon can delay
menstruation and help to avoid conception.