Diabetes is a global health concern that millions worldwide experience. However, managing these chronic conditions involves a multifaceted approach that includes medication, lifestyle changes, and dietary modifications. One such approach is dietary modifications and the inclusion of spices, herbs, and foods that help control diabetes.
Now, be honest! Did you know the health benefits of cinnamon for diabetes? Well, cinnamon is scientifically known as Cinnamomum verum and belongs to the Cinnamomum family. Cinnamon is loaded with a variety of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. In this article, find more about the benefits of cinnamon, especially for people with diabetes.
Nutritional Overview Of Cinnamon
Cinnamon has been famous since ancient times for its medicinal properties. It is known to lower blood glucose levels. Here is a table summarizing the nutritional components and amount of nutrients per 2.6g of Cinnamon.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 6.42kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 2.1g |
| Calcium | 26.1mg (milligram) |
| Iron | 0.21mg |
| Magnesium | 1.56mg |
| Potassium | 11.2mg |
| Phosphorus | 1.66mg |
| Vitamin A | 0.39 micrograms |
Health Benefits of Cinnamon
Studies suggest that cinnamon in diabetic diets improves cholesterol and blood glucose levels. A type 2 diabetes diet focuses especially on reducing fasting glucose levels, and cinnamon is known to help in the same way. Cinnamon is known to increase insulin sensitivity. Let’s explore a few more benefits of Cinnamon.
Reduces Inflammation
Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory qualities that help fight infection and mend damaged tissue. It contains cinnamaldehyde, a chemical that decreases oedema and inhibits blood platelets from clumping together. It works for both acute and chronic pain conditions, including arthritis. Cinnamon also promotes blood circulation and directs it to the joints when blood flow is interrupted.
Regulate Blood Sugar Levels
Did you know there is a hormone known as insulin? It is an important hormone that regulates blood sugar levels and metabolism. Did you know that eating cinnamon on a daily basis enhances insulin sensitivity and blood sugar regulation? It slows carbohydrate breakdown in the digestive tract, reducing the amount of glucose that enters the circulation.
Manages Blood Pressure
Few studies have proven that cinnamon lowers blood pressure. It also helps to lower cholesterol levels, which reduces the chance of heart problems.
Anti-Cancerous Properties
Cinnamon possesses anti-cancer properties. How does it help fight cancer? Well, it slows the growth of cancer cells and hinders the formation of blood vessels in tumours. In addition, cinnamon consumption on a daily basis has been linked to a lower risk of colon cancer.
Great For Skin
It has the properties to offer smooth skin and eliminate dead skin cells, giving your complexion a brighter, more even tone. Cinnamon’s antibacterial properties are also believed to help cleanse pores, giving your skin a natural glow. Plus, cinnamon extract works the best to restore natural elasticity.
Antimicrobial Properties
The active component in cinnamon known as Cinnamaldehyde, may help fight several types of illness. Cinnamaldehyde, an essential oil found in the bark, has antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-fungal activities. It prevents some bacteria, such as salmonella, as well as fungi-induced respiratory illnesses.
Is Cinnamon Good For Diabetes
Adding cinnamon to the diet to control diabetes is debatable. Some call it unsafe for diabetics, but most studies call it the best diabetic diet element. Health experts have claimed over the years that cinnamon slows stomach emptying and is beneficial for regulating blood sugar. Additionally, it can help boost the immune system of diabetics. Just be careful if you have a liver problem. It is best to consult a healthcare advisor before incorporating cinnamon into your diet for diabetes.
Ways To Use Cinnamon
- Sprinkle some of it over your food.
- You could add it to your drinks or just simply prepare cinnamon tea.
- Consume cinnamon powder with honey on an empty stomach.
You need to constantly monitor and evaluate the effect cinnamon and certain diets for type 2 diabetes have on sugar levels. Keeping a glucometer handy always helps in such cases. Also, it is advisable to consult your doctor about the best foods for diabetes control and whether you can add spices like cinnamon to your diabetic diet plan.
Disclaimer: The content of this article is compiled information from generic and public sources. It is in no way a substitute, suggestion, or advice for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. BeatoApp does not claim responsibility for this information.
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