What are the Health Benefits of Consuming Ceylon Cinnamon?

There are two types of cinnamon: Ceylon (true cinnamon) and Cassia (more common variety found in most supermarkets). Cinnamon is a spice that is made from the inner bark of trees known as Cinnamomum. Cinnamon is high in cinnamaldehyde, which is thought to be responsible for most of cinnamon’s health benefits.

Ceylon is thought to contain more health benefits than Cassia an is a type of cinnamon that is native to Sri Lanka, It has a delicate, sweet flavour.The Cassia variety contains significant amounts of a compound called coumarin, which is believed to be harmful in large doses.

All cinnamon should have health benefits and Ceylon is much better in this regard, and studies show that it’s much lower in coumarin than the Cassia variety. Below are 8 potential health benefits.

1. May lower blood sugar levels: Some studies have found that consuming Ceylon cinnamon can help to lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. It may also improve insulin sensitivity, which can help the body to more effectively use glucose for energy.

2. May reduce cholesterol levels: Ceylon cinnamon has been shown to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. It may also improve blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke.

3. May have anti-inflammatory effects: Ceylon cinnamon contains a number of compounds that have anti-inflammatory effects, including cinnamaldehyde and cinnamic acid. This may make it useful for reducing inflammation in the body and helping to prevent certain chronic diseases.

4. May improve brain function: Some studies have found that consuming Ceylon cinnamon can improve brain function, including memory, attention, and alertness. It may also have neuroprotective effects, which means that it may help to protect the brain from damage.

5. May have antioxidant effects: Ceylon cinnamon is high in antioxidants, which are compounds that protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. This may help to reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases, such as cancer and heart disease.

6. May have antimicrobial properties: Ceylon cinnamon has been shown to have antimicrobial properties, which means that it may help to kill or inhibit the growth of certain types of bacteria and fungi. This may make it useful for preventing food spoilage and reducing the risk of infections.

7. May improve digestive health: Ceylon cinnamon may help to improve digestive health by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes and reducing bloating and gas. It may also help to reduce the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

8. May have anti-tumor effects: Some studies have found that Ceylon cinnamon may have anti-tumor effects, meaning that it may help to inhibit the growth of cancer cells. However, more research is needed to confirm this effect.

Overall, there are many potential health benefits of consuming Ceylon cinnamon. It may help to lower blood sugar levels, reduce cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, improve brain function, and have antioxidant and antimicrobial effects. It may also improve digestive health and have anti-tumor effects. If you're interested in adding Ceylon cinnamon to your diet, it is available in a variety of forms, including ground cinnamon, cinnamon sticks, and cinnamon supplements.