There are two main types of cinnamon, Ceylon, known as “true” cinnamon and Cassia Cinnamon which is the more common variety we find today and simply referred to as “cinnamon”. Cinnamon comes from the trees in the Cinnamomum family. It is available in powder form, whole, pieces of bark and in oil and supplement form.

You probably know cinnamon as a flavorful spice that adorns the tops of beloved breakfast foods such as oatmeal, sweet gooey buns, and cappuccinos. Cinnamon has been used as an ingredient dating as far back as ancient Egypt. But did you know there are so many health benefits to cinnamon? As if we needed more reasons to love this spice besides its taste and smell.

1- Filled with Antioxidants

Free radicals cause damage in the body and antioxidants protect your body from the damage. Cinnamon is loaded with antioxidants including polyphenols, which are highly potent.

2- Blood Sugar

Studies have suggested that controlled cinnamon consumption showed lower serum glucose, and triglycerides in test subjects. Some studies have suggested that cinnamon may be able to lower blood sugar levels by increasing insulin sensitivity.

3- Bacterial & Fungal Infections

One of the main components of cinnamon, cinnamaldehyde, may help protect against some infections. More research is needed, but test-tube studies have suggested the benefits in preventing tooth decay and inhibiting growth of bacteria such as Listeria and Salmonella.

Guilt Free Goodness

Cinnamon is one of those spices that adds a bit of flavor and warmth to other foods, try it in your coffee or tea, sprinkle it on toast or anywhere else you want a little something extra for your tastebuds.