Cinnamon & Ginger

Cinnamon

Some interesting facts about Cinnamon & Ginger

Cinnamon

Cinnamon
Cinnamon

Cinnamon is native to Sri Lanka. Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum, synonym C. verum) is a small evergreen tree 10-15 m tall, belonging to the family Lauraceae, and a spice obtained from the inner bark of this species. Cinnamon is known to significantly reduces blood sugar in diabetics, and improves cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Cinnamon is a popular spice obtained from the inner bark of trees belonging to the genus Cinnamomum. It is widely used for its distinctive flavor and aroma and has been valued for its medicinal properties for thousands of years. Here’s an overview of the health benefits and a nutritional profile of cinnamon.

Health Benefits of Cinnamon

  1. Rich in Antioxidants: Cinnamon is loaded with powerful antioxidants, such as polyphenols, which help protect the body from oxidative damage caused by free radicals.
  2. Anti-inflammatory Properties: The compounds in cinnamon can help reduce inflammation, which may lower the risk of disease.
  3. Improves Sensitivity to Insulin: Cinnamon has been shown to improve sensitivity to the hormone insulin, which is vital for regulating metabolism and energy use.
  4. Lowers Blood Sugar Levels: It can decrease the amount of glucose that enters your bloodstream after a meal and has an anti-diabetic effect.
  5. Heart Health: Cinnamon has been linked to reduced risk factors for heart disease, including high cholesterol and high blood pressure.
  6. Fights Bacterial and Fungal Infections: Cinnamaldehyde, the main active component in cinnamon, may help fight various kinds of infection.
  7. Neuroprotective Properties: Some studies suggest that cinnamon can help protect neurons, improve motor function, and normalize neurotransmitter levels.

Nutrition Table of Cinnamon (per 100 grams)

Nutrient Amount
Calories 247 kcal
Protein 4.0 g
Total Fat 1.24 g
Saturated Fat 0.345 g
Trans Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 0 mg
Sodium 10 mg
Potassium 431 mg
Total Carbohydrate 80.59 g
Dietary Fiber 53.1 g
Sugars 2.17 g
Vitamin A 295 IU
Vitamin C 3.8 mg
Calcium 1002 mg
Iron 8.32 mg
Magnesium 60 mg

Usage Tips

  • Culinary Use: Cinnamon can be used in both sweet and savory dishes, including desserts, cereals, and curries.
  • Tea: Cinnamon sticks or ground cinnamon can be used to make a warming and flavorful tea.
  • Supplements: Cinnamon is available in supplement form, often as an extract, for more concentrated health benefits.
  • Aromatherapy: Cinnamon oil can be used in aromatherapy for its potential mood-enhancing properties.

Precautions

  • Cinnamon is generally safe for most people when used in culinary amounts. However, excessive consumption, especially of Cassia cinnamon (a common variety), can lead to health problems due to its coumarin content, which can be toxic in large doses.
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women should use cinnamon in moderation and consult with a healthcare provider before using it as a supplement.
  • People taking medications for diabetes, heart disease, or liver disease should consult their healthcare provider before taking cinnamon supplements, as it may interact with these medications.

Incorporating cinnamon into your diet can add a delicious flavor to your food and provide a range of health benefits, making it a versatile and valuable spice.

Ginger

Ginger
Ginger

Ginger root is used extensively as a spice in many if not most cuisines of the world. Though called a root, it is actually the rhizome of the monocotyledonous perennial plant Zingiber officinale. The active constituent of ginger is zingerone.

Cinnamon is a popular spice derived from the bark of Cinnamomum trees. Known for its distinct aroma and flavor, it has been used for centuries in both culinary and medicinal applications. Here’s an overview of the health benefits and nutritional profile of cinnamon.

Health Benefits of Cinnamon

  1. Rich in Antioxidants: Cinnamon contains powerful antioxidants, such as polyphenols, which protect the body from oxidative damage caused by free radicals.
  2. Anti-inflammatory Properties: Compounds in cinnamon can help reduce inflammation, lowering the risk of disease.
  3. Improves Sensitivity to Insulin: Cinnamon can enhance insulin sensitivity, which is crucial for regulating metabolism and energy use.
  4. Lowers Blood Sugar Levels: Cinnamon can decrease the amount of glucose entering the bloodstream after a meal and has an anti-diabetic effect.
  5. Heart Health: Regular consumption of cinnamon has been linked to reduced risk factors for heart disease, including high cholesterol and high blood pressure.
  6. Fights Bacterial and Fungal Infections: The main active component, cinnamaldehyde, has antimicrobial properties that help combat infections.
  7. Neuroprotective Properties: Some studies suggest cinnamon can help protect neurons, improve motor function, and normalize neurotransmitter levels, potentially benefiting those with neurodegenerative diseases.
  8. Anti-cancer Properties: Some studies indicate that cinnamon may have protective effects against cancer, particularly in reducing the growth of cancer cells and the formation of blood vessels in tumors.

Nutrition Table of Cinnamon (per 100 grams)

Nutrient Amount
Calories 247 kcal
Protein 4.0 g
Total Fat 1.24 g
Saturated Fat 0.345 g
Trans Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 0 mg
Sodium 10 mg
Potassium 431 mg
Total Carbohydrate 80.59 g
Dietary Fiber 53.1 g
Sugars 2.17 g
Vitamin A 295 IU
Vitamin C 3.8 mg
Calcium 1002 mg
Iron 8.32 mg
Magnesium 60 mg

Usage Tips

  • Culinary Use: Cinnamon can be used in both sweet and savory dishes, including baked goods, cereals, stews, and curries.
  • Tea: Cinnamon sticks or ground cinnamon can be used to make a warming and flavorful tea.
  • Supplements: Cinnamon is available in supplement form, often as an extract, for more concentrated health benefits.
  • Aromatherapy: Cinnamon oil can be used in aromatherapy for its potential mood-enhancing properties.

Precautions

  • Coumarin Content: Cassia cinnamon, a common variety, contains high levels of coumarin, which can be toxic in large doses. Ceylon cinnamon, also known as “true” cinnamon, has much lower coumarin levels and is a safer option for regular use.
  • Medication Interactions: People taking medications for diabetes, heart disease, or liver disease should consult their healthcare provider before taking cinnamon supplements, as it may interact with these medications.
  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Pregnant or breastfeeding women should use cinnamon in moderation and consult with a healthcare provider before using it as a supplement.

Incorporating cinnamon into your diet can enhance both flavor and health, making it a versatile and valuable spice.

Everything you ever need for your garden all here including the best daily Gardening offers available check it out here at Amazon! and Here some recommended links selected for you: The Best Books of the Month, Todays best Deals at Amazon, Best Sellers in Cell Phones & Accessories and last but not least the easy and great way to send a gift for the holidays: Amazon.com eGift Card (Instant Email or Text Delivery).

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *