Concerning and warm, cinnamon is much more than just autumn spice. Used for centuries in traditional medicine, it is today at the heart of many scientific studies. In the HuffPost, Dr. Michael in Inner, internist at the Faculty of Medicine at Tufts University, said that “About 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon per day can slightly improve blood sugar, insulin resistance, blood pressure, cholesterol levels and inflammation, compared to a placebo “. These potential benefits, still to be confirmed by long -term studies, are observed in particular in people with type 2 diabetes or overweight. Toby Smithson, dietitian, adds that this spice “Contains bioactive ingredients, in particular antioxidants and could contribute to the reduction of triglycerides, to the stabilization of blood pressure and to a light improvement in post-prandial blood sugar peaks “. On the other hand, the results concerning the A1C, an average marker of blood sugar, remain, according to him, not conclusive to date.
Not all types of cinnamon are equal
There are several varieties of this spice La Cinnelle de Ceylon (originally from Sri Lanka) and that of China (called Casse), more widespread because it is less expensive. “”China cinnamon contains about 250 times more coumarin than Ceylon cinnamon “specifies Toby Smithson. However, coumarin is a natural substance which, in high doses, can be toxic to the liver. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) thus recommends that they do not exceed 1/2 teaspoon per day of China cinnamon. “”Besides, cinnamon can be toxic if you consume several teaspoons a day “warns Dr. Dansinger. Among the possible misdeeds, Michael C. Williams, dietitian, as well as an excessive ingestion can cause canker sores, hypoglycemia, liver damage, and that its inhalation can irritate the airways.
Finally, coumarin can interact with certain drugs, including anticoagulants. Medical advice is therefore recommended in the event of treatment.
How to best consume it
To take advantage of its health -free health benefits, experts advise to use cinnamon in the kitchen and avoid food supplements, often poorly dosed or little controlled. Amy Gorin, dietician, recalls that “A teaspoon of cinnamon contains more than one gram of full fibers “. She recommends adding it to the coffee, oatmeal, compote, soups, or even homemade pancakes.