If you are someone who loves the taste of cinnamon, then you are not alone. This spice, which comes from the bark of a tree, is popular all over the world. Sri Lanka has its own species of cinnamon tree known as Ceylon, while the rest of the world consumes cassia, another species of the plant.
Cinnamon is commonly used to enhance the taste and smell of various foods, such as toast, soups, stews, cereals, and snacks.
Recently, more and more Nigerians have started to use cinnamon and are curious about the health benefits of drinking cinnamon water. In addition to its delicious taste, cinnamon also provides a number of health benefits that can be enjoyed when consumed. For this reason, many people prefer to drink cinnamon water or cinnamon tea.
Cinnamon water is simply water that has had cinnamon added to it. A cinnamon stick is soaked in hot water, which is then consumed.
Alternatively, cinnamon powder can be mixed with water. Many people choose to drink cinnamon water because it is believed that this is the best way to extract all of the nutrients from cinnamon.
In this article, we will discuss the various health benefits of drinking cinnamon water and why you should consider incorporating it into your daily routine.
10 Proven Health Benefits of Cinnamon Water
1. Lowers blood sugar levels
Cinnamon has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, which helps lower blood sugar levels. Drinking cinnamon water regularly can be particularly helpful for people with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition.
2. Boosts brain function
Cinnamon contains compounds that have been shown to improve brain function, such as memory, attention, and visual-motor response. Drinking cinnamon water regularly may help boost brain function and improve cognitive performance.
3. Reduces inflammation
Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation throughout the body. Chronic inflammation has been linked to various health problems, including heart disease, cancer, and arthritis.
4. Fights bacterial and fungal infections
Cinnamon contains powerful antimicrobial properties that can help fight against various bacterial and fungal infections. Drinking cinnamon water may help prevent or treat infections such as candida overgrowth or urinary tract infections.
5. Improves digestion
Cinnamon has been shown to help improve digestion by reducing bloating, gas, and stomach cramps. It can also help regulate bowel movements and alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
6. Promotes weight loss
Cinnamon has been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce cravings for sugary foods, which can contribute to weight gain. Drinking cinnamon water may help promote weight loss and improve overall body composition.
7. Boosts immune system
Cinnamon contains compounds that have been shown to enhance the immune system’s ability to fight against infections and diseases. Drinking cinnamon water regularly may help boost immunity and reduce the risk of various illnesses.
8. Lowers cholesterol levels
Cinnamon has been shown to help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and improve HDL (good) cholesterol levels. Drinking cinnamon water regularly may help reduce the risk of heart disease and improve overall heart health.
9. Promotes healthy skin
Cinnamon has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help promote healthy skin. Drinking cinnamon water may help reduce inflammation, prevent acne, and improve overall skin texture and appearance.
10. Reduces menstrual cramps
Cinnamon has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that can help reduce menstrual cramps. Drinking cinnamon water regularly may help alleviate menstrual pain and discomfort.
Side Effects of Cinnamon
While cinnamon is generally safe for consumption, there are potential side effects that should be considered. Here are some of the possible side effects of cinnamon:
- Mouth irritation: Cinnamon oil or cinnamon-containing products may cause mouth irritation or ulcers.
- Low blood sugar: Cinnamon has been shown to lower blood sugar levels, which can be dangerous for people taking diabetes medication or for those with low blood sugar levels.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to cinnamon, and may experience symptoms such as itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
- Liver damage: High doses of cinnamon, particularly cassia cinnamon, may cause liver damage in some people.
- Interference with medication: Cinnamon may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners or antibiotics, and can interfere with their effectiveness.
- Respiratory problems: Inhaling cinnamon powder or dust can cause respiratory problems, especially for people with asthma.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Cinnamon supplements should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding as there is not enough research to determine its safety in these populations.
It’s important to note that these side effects are rare, and most people can safely consume cinnamon in moderate amounts. However, if you experience any of these symptoms after consuming cinnamon, it’s best to stop using it and consult a doctor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cinnamon water is a delicious and healthy beverage that can provide numerous health benefits. Incorporating it into your daily routine may help improve your overall health and wellbeing.
