Cinnamon is a spice which comes from the inner bark of several tree spices from the genus Cinnamomum. It is widely used in sweet and spicy dishes due to its flavour and aroma. There are two main types of cinnamon: Ceylon (native to Sri Lanka, commonly found in Mexican cuisine) and cassia (typically grown in China, Vietnam and Indonesia).
Cinnamon water is a simple yet potent mixture made by putting some cinnamon sticks or cinnamon powder into water. It’s a popular beverage known for its distinct flavor and numerous health benefits. To make cinnamon water, you can either boil cinnamon sticks into water or just put cinnamon powder into hot water. It can be consumed hot or cold depending upon personal preferences. Let's read benefits of cinnamon water.
1. Blood sugar Regulation
Cinnamon water helps in regulating blood sugar levels as it improves insulin sensitivity and reduces insulin resistance. Cinnamon also slows down the breakdown of carbohydrates in the digestive tract, which prevents rapid spikes in blood sugar levels after meals. If consumed regularly it can help to better blood sugar control overtime. However it's necessary to complement cinnamon water with a balanced diet and regular exercise for the management of blood sugar levels.
2. Rich in Antioxidants
Cinnamon water contains antioxidants, particularly polyphenols. Polyphenols helps to combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. Antioxidants like flavonoids and phenolic acids scavenges free radicals, reduces cell damage and lowers the risk of chronic diseases like heart diseases and cancer. Cinnamon is also rich in compunds like cinnamaldehyde. Cinnamaldehyde has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Regular consumption of cinnamon water may also lead to a stronger immune system and slower aging process.
3. Improves digestion
Compounds like cinnamaldehyde and eugenol present in cinnamon help to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and combat harmful bacteria, which eventually eases the symptoms of indigestion and bloating. Cinnamon helps in stimulating the production of digestive enzymes like amylase, protease and lipase which are vital for the breakdown of the food and and absorption of the nutrients. Cinnamon water nourishes beneficial bacteria in the gut which contributes to overall digestive health.
4. Beneficial for heart Health
As cinnamon contains compounds like cinnamaldehyde and cinnamic acid, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, these compounds help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, which are risk factors for the heart disease. Cinnamon can lower bad cholesterol levels, while increasing good cholesterol levels. Cinnamon water helps better circulation of the blood, reducing strain on the heart.
Also read: Harness The Power Of Cinnamon For Luscious, Voluminous Hair
5. Weight Management:
Cinnamon water is a natural remedy for weight Management. As Cinnamon improves insulin sensitivity, it helps in reducing cravings for sugary foods and prevents spikes in blood glucose levels which then leads to fat storage. Cinnamon helps decreasing hunger and gives the feeling of fullness that leads to reduced calorie intake. Cinnamon contains compounds that boosts metabolism and increases the body's ability to burn calories and fat.