Cinnamon — Nutrients, Health Benefits, And Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 5, 2024
Nutrients
Nutrition facts
Amount per 100 g
Calories
🔥 247 kcal
| Nutrients per: 100 g | Value | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Carbs | 81 g | 29.45% |
| Fiber | 53 g | 189.29% |
| Sugars | 2 g | 4% |
| Glycemic Index | 5 | - |
| Protein | 4 g | 8% |
| Sodium | 10 mg | 0.43% |
| Total Fat | 1 | 1.28% |
*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
53 g
✅ High Fiber Content
5
🟢 Low Glycemic Index
Key takeaways
Health benefits
- Rich in antioxidants such as polyphenols, which help protect the body from free radicals and reduce inflammation.
- Supports blood sugar control by improving insulin sensitivity and lowering blood sugar levels.
- Contains anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the body and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
- May improve heart health by reducing total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides while maintaining HDL cholesterol levels.
- Boosts immune function due to its antimicrobial properties, helping to fight off infections and improve overall health.
Health risks
- Risk of liver damage due to the presence of coumarin in Cassia cinnamon, which can be toxic in large amounts if consumed regularly.
- Potential for allergic reactions in some individuals, causing symptoms like itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
- Digestive discomfort such as stomach pain or irritation when consumed in large quantities, particularly in its powdered form.
- Interaction with blood thinners as cinnamon can have an anticoagulant effect, potentially increasing the risk of bleeding when combined with blood-thinning medications.
How to choose cinnamon
Fresh cinnamon sticks are the best choice for both flavor and longevity. They should have a sweet, woody aroma that's potent when sniffed. Break a small piece to check for brittleness, which is a good sign it's fresh.
Avoid cinnamon that is dull and crumbly with a muted scent, as it's likely old and has lost much of its essential oils. Proper cinnamon should be aromatic and flavorful, enhancing dishes with its warm, spicy notes.
How to store cinnamon
Cinnamon should be kept in an airtight container in a cool, dark environment. A pantry or spice cabinet is perfect for maintaining its flavor and scent. When stored correctly, cinnamon can remain fresh for 2-3 years.
Exposure to heat and light can diminish cinnamon's effectiveness and color. It's best to avoid placing it near the stove or other heat sources. Ensure the container is tightly sealed to guard against moisture, which can cause clumping and a decrease in flavor.
✅ Extra Tip
How long does it last?
Cinnamon can last for 2-3 years when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Ground cinnamon loses its potency faster and should be used within 1 year.
What to do with leftovers?
Leftover cinnamon can be used in a variety of flavorful and aromatic ways. In the kitchen, it’s a versatile spice that adds warmth to both sweet and savory dishes, such as pies, cakes, cookies, stews, and curries. Cinnamon sticks can also be used to flavor beverages like tea, coffee, or mulled wine.
Beyond cooking, cinnamon has numerous non-culinary uses. It can be used as a natural air freshener; simply simmer cinnamon sticks in water with cloves and orange peels to create a cozy aroma in your home. Cinnamon can also be mixed with honey to create a soothing remedy for sore throats and colds. Additionally, cinnamon is known to have natural antimicrobial properties, making it a useful addition to homemade cleaning solutions. You can also use cinnamon to help deter ants and other pests by sprinkling it in areas where they are active.
👨⚕️️ Medical disclaimer
How cinnamon supports specific health conditions
Cinnamon is a spice rich in antioxidants, such as polyphenols, which help reduce inflammation and support heart health by lowering cholesterol levels. Its antimicrobial properties may aid in immune health by preventing bacterial and fungal infections. Additionally, cinnamon has been shown to support blood sugar control, making it beneficial for individuals with diabetes or prediabetes. Its anti-inflammatory compounds may also promote brain function by improving cognitive health and reducing neurodegeneration.
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Listonic Team
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Our editorial team checked this article to make sure it was accurate at the time of publishing it.
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