We all yearn for something hot, calming, and comforting after a tiring day that serves to relax us. A warm glass of milk before bed is a classic remedy for many. But did you know adding a pinch of cinnamon makes it even better? This comforting beverage not only aids in relaxing but also has some surprising health benefits.
Why Cinnamon?
Cinnamon is not just a spice that adds aroma and flavour to food; it's also full of health-benefiting properties. From controlling blood sugar levels to lowering inflammation and combating infections, this simple spice has been utilised in conventional medicine for centuries.
When combined with the nutritional benefits of warm milk, it becomes a nutrient-dense bedtime drink that offers more than just sleep.
Health Benefits of Cinnamon Milk at Night
Promotes Better Sleep
If you often struggle to fall asleep or stay asleep through the night, cinnamon milk might be your new go-to. Warm milk contains tryptophan, an amino acid that allows the body to produce serotonin and melatonin, the hormones that cause relaxation and sleep. Cinnamon brings a soothing factor into the equation, which helps decrease stress levels further, thus promoting sleeping faster and better.
Promotes Digestion
Cinnamon is also carminative, causing a reduction of gas, bloating, and indigestion. Drinking cinnamon milk at bedtime will soothe your digestive system if you've had a heavy or late meal. It can also support metabolism and reduce acid reflux symptoms.
Also Read: Can Cinnamon Reduce Cardiovascular Risk For Those With PCOS? Here’s What You Should Know
Strengthens Immunity
Both cinnamon and milk possess immune-building properties. Milk is full of protein, vitamin D, and calcium, and cinnamon has anti-inflammatory and antioxidants that fight off infections. Combining them works to repair and restore your body overnight while ensuring increased resistance against common cold and seasonal flu.
Maintains Blood Sugar Levels
Another benefit of consuming cinnamon milk is that it helps maintain blood sugar levels. It increases sensitivity to insulin and reduces the breakdown of carbohydrates in the gastrointestinal tract, keeping blood sugar stable. According to a 2022 study, it was found that supplementing with cinnamon may reduce type 2 diabetes by enhancing glucose and lipid metabolism.
Reduces Inflammation and Joint Pain
Cinnamon contains powerful antioxidants like polyphenols that help reduce inflammation. If you're having joint stiffness, muscle aches, or body aches, taking cinnamon milk before sleeping can relieve you by calming inflammation and inducing good sleep, allowing your body to heal naturally.
Improves Skin Health
Cinnamon's antioxidants clear toxins from the body, allowing for clearer skin. And since sleep is a prerequisite for skin repair, this drink works on your skin both externally and internally.
Aids in Weight Management
Although this isn’t a magical fat-burning potion, cinnamon has properties that can support your weight management journey. It suppresses cravings by regulating blood sugar levels, and milk's protein causes you to feel full for longer. A bedtime warm cinnamon milk cup can also quash night snacking.
Also Read: Is It Healthy To Incorporate Cinnamon Tea Everyday? Read On
How to Make Cinnamon Milk
Ingredients
- 1 cup of milk (dairy or plant-based)
- ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- A pinch of black pepper (optional, helps in absorption)
- Honey or jaggery to taste (optional, added after heating)
Method
- Pour milk into a saucepan and add cinnamon.
- Heat the milk gently over a low flame for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Don’t boil it.
- Strain if using a cinnamon stick.
- Let it cool slightly before adding honey if you’re using it.
- Sip warm and enjoy the calm.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issue to avoid complications.]