Far from being a simple grandmother’s tip, the effectiveness of cinnamon is based on a concrete biological reality. It acts directly on the way our body processes carbohydrates.
A real impact on sugar balance
According to Dr. Laure Martinat, doctor and specialist in phytotherapy, micronutrition, “Cinnamon has the property of improving the carbohydrate balance, the sugar balance in the body, because it contains molecules that improve insulin sensitivity.
By optimizing this hormone, the spice facilitates the entry of glucose into our cells rather than letting it stagnate in the blood.
The “anti-cravings” effect explained
If cinnamon helps regulate appetite, it is above all through its action on blood sugar. By avoiding the roller coaster of sugar levels, it stabilizes our energy.
“By limiting sugar peaks after meals and therefore insulin peaks, it will reduce fat storage and reduce sweet cravings.” specifies the expert.
However, it qualifies the often exaggerated “fat-burning” aspect. “This is why it has an indirect effect on weight loss, but it is not a plant aimed directly at slimming.
Be careful when choosing the variety
Not all cinnamon is created equal, and any cinnamon may be harmful to your liver. It is crucial to check the label on your spice bottles or food supplements.
Dr Martinat insists: “It absolutely has to be Ceylon cinnamon and not Chinese cinnamon.”. The reason is simple: the Chinese variety contains coumarins, molecules which, “at high doses and prolonged consumption, are toxic to the liver“. Although Chinese cinnamon is authorized and less expensive, choose Ceylon quality, which is safer for your health.
Beyond sugar, an ally for cholesterol
The benefits of this spice don’t stop at glucose management. It proves to be a valuable ally for people with a metabolic profile at risk (high cholesterol or triglycerides).
By activating certain enzymes, it limits the synthesis of fats. “Cinnamon also improves the lipid balance, that is to say the lipid, cholesterol and triglyceride balance.explains the doctor. It is an interesting natural aid when the attending physician advises hygienic and dietary measures before considering drug treatment.
How to use cinnamon daily?
To obtain a therapeutic effect, the dietary dose (1 to 3 g per day) can be nauseating. Dr Laure Martinat therefore advises a mixed approach: integrate organic cinnamon powder regularly into your recipes and, if necessary, opt for a course of food supplements. “In general, we recommend between 250 and 500 mg per day of cinnamon extract, preferably taken during the richest meal of the day for 4 to 8 weeks. she concludes.