Proven Effects of Cinnamon on Weight Loss

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Cinnamon is a spice known for its rich flavor and medicinal properties. In recent times, it has become widely popular for its effect on weight loss. Here are few great health benefits of cinnamon.

Did You Know?

According to research done by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in the year 2003, those individuals suffering from type 2 diabetes, who ate one gram of cinnamon every day for a period of forty days, went on to experience a remarkable drop in their levels of blood sugar, and this level reduction is something that is beneficial for weight loss, too.

Cinnamon is a small, evergreen tree, and is native to South Asia, especially Sri Lanka and the Middle East region. The name 'cinnamon' is used to refer to the bark of the tree, which is one of the most important spices to be used by the ancient world. It was so highly valued in ancient times, that it was regarded as a gift suitable for God and the monarchs.

In modern times, however, it is mainly valued as a spice and for its medicinal properties. It can be used as a home remedy for a number of ailments, and to boost mental and physical well-being. In addition to all the health benefits it provides, it is also widely popular for aiding weight loss.

Aid Toward Weight Loss

Cinnamon can be found either as a powder or stick. There are mainly three types -- Cassia cinnamon, Indonesian cinnamon, and Ceylon cinnamon . It is believed that cinnamon can not only burn the excess fat collected in the body, but can also prevent its further accumulation.

Cinnamon increases body heat, and thereby speeds up the metabolism in order to burn the extra calories or fats deposited in the body. This phenomenon results in gradual weight loss.

Additionally, it can reduce the level of cholesterol , especially the level of triglycerides, LDL (bad cholesterol) and total cholesterol. A high level of cholesterol is one of the most common problems among overweight or obese people, and this can, over a period of time, cause several other complications like a coronary heart disease or heart attack.

Another common health problem in obese people is diabetes, and cinnamon can help in controlling this condition, too. It has been found that cinnamon can reduce the level of blood sugar , while increasing the insulin action , thereby controlling diabetes and body weight.

Cinnamon-based Beverage Recipes

Cinnamon avec Honey

Ingredients • 1 cup water • 1 tsp. honey • 1 tsp. cinnamon powder/two cinnamon sticks

Method To prepare this tea, all you need to do is mix one teaspoon of honey and cinnamon powder, and boil it in a cup of water, or just place one or two sticks of cinnamon in the boiling water.

Once the water has boiled, let the mixture sit for a few minutes, after which, filter the potion with a strainer. Voila! Your delicious tea is ready. Many prefer consuming this spice in the form of a tea along with honey. Like cinnamon, honey too can aid in losing weight, and hence, both can be combined well to ensure rapid weight loss.

Cinnamon avec Banana and Oatmeal

Ingredients • 1 banana • 1 cup plain low-fat yogurt • ½ cup skimmed milk • ¼ cup raw oats • 1 - 2 tsp. brown sugar • 1 tsp. cinnamon powder

Method Blend all the ingredients into a smoothie and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon powder. It helps in obtaining the right smoothie flavor, as it adds a layer of natural sweetness without extra calories. The total calorie count would be approximately 400. You may either choose to have a glass full, or prefer to go for two servings of 200 calories each.

Other Health Benefits

It is a powerful antioxidant that not only helps to shed extra calories, but also alleviates several other health conditions. A few health problems in which this spice can be used effectively are: ➾ Arthritis ➾ Heart disease ➾ Bladder infections and UTI ➾ Headache and Migraine ➾ Toothache

➾ Diarrhea ➾ Cold and Influenza ➾ Improves digestion ➾ Prevents bad breath ➾ Reduces hair loss ➾ Boosts memory ➾ Improves cognitive abilities

However, while using this spice, it should be kept in mind that cinnamon alone cannot ensure weight loss, if not complemented by physical activities and a healthy or balanced diet. Therefore, you should eat more fruits and vegetables, and cut down on junk or fried foods.

Note .- Cassia cinnamon contains a high level of a toxic compound called ' coumarin ' which, when consumed in high concentration can cause extensive damage to the kidney and liver. It is also known to have a blood-thinning or anti-clotting effect.

Therefore, its interaction with any prescribed medication is not advisable. If you are suffering from any medical condition, you need to make sure that this is something you can resort to for losing some weight. Besides, it should not be ingested in a large amount, especially during pregnancy.

Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for professional medical advice.