October 06th, 2015

Ceylon Cinnamon is also known as “true” or “real” cinnamon.  This may sound a bit puzzling to you that there is in fact a “true” cinnamon and different varieties of this spice.  But, there is! Ceylon cinnamon has this beautiful and natural sweet flavor compared to the common Cassia cinnamon you find more commonly in the North American markets.  Ceylon cinnamon is a true medicinal cinnamon harvested in Sri Lanka and possesses outstanding health benefits.   Besides the beautiful delicate flavor, Ceylon cinnamon has been used for centuries medicinally for a number of different health reasons.  Here are our top 7 health benefits of Ceylon cinnamon and why this spice needs to be found in your pantry because of its true medicinal and healing properties.
 
1. Improves Circulation
Ceylon cinnamon has an active compound, which is called cinnamaldehyde, which is responsible for increasing peripheral blood flow.  Meaning, if you have constant cold hands and feet Ceylon cinnamon can help. Also, as we age, healthy circulation can unfortunately become a problem, so consuming foods and spices that enhance healthy circulation is a great practice.
2. Balances Blood Sugar
Consuming Ceylon cinnamon may reduce blood sugar, cholesterol and triglyceride levels.  Some studies suggest that it is due to components of the cinnamon that are responsible for increasing insulin receptor sensitivity that aid in the blood sugar management.  Our western diets are full of sugar spiking foods, empty nutrient carbs and sugars, creating a yo-yo effect on our blood sugar levels.  Consuming as little as ½ a tsp. daily consistently with a healthy low glycemic diet can help get your blood sugar levels back in balance. 
3. Improves Digestion
Ceylon cinnamon stimulates saliva and gastric juices, two necessary components of healthy digestion. It is also in the carminative category, which means its great at breaking up intestinal gas.  Researchers speculate that Ceylon cinnamon is hugely beneficial for digestion because it helps metabolize fats by increasing enzymatic activity during the digestive process. 
4. Increases Metabolism
As it aids in the digestive process and helps with insulin control, our metabolisms are positively affected! The spice is able to transform the metabolism of not only sugar but of carbohydrates as well.  With the use of cinnamon, your body uses the carbohydrate storage more effectively so it burns and doesn’t turn to fat.
5. Antimicrobial and Anti-parasitic
Some studies suggest that the spice contains antimicrobial and anti-parasitic properties.  It has also been studied to show the effects to stop growth of bacteria and fungi, as well as the yeast “candida” that many people suffer from an unhealthy balance of.  Along with introducing several healthy probiotic foods and adding daily cinnamon to your diet you can get those beneficial bacteria levels in check.  Which is important for immunity and disease prevention.  Another fun fact is that the antimicrobial effects of Ceylon cinnamon actually allow it to be a natural food preservative! So, add this into your foods to help keep it staying fresh longer.  
6. Loaded with Antioxidants
Ceylon cinnamon is loaded with healing antioxidant properties.  Antioxidants protect us against free radical damage and oxidative damage.  So, loading up on antioxidants daily to protect our cells is necessary for optimal health and the prevention of degenerative diseases. 
7. Boosts Brain Function
Some research suggests that by simply smelling the wonderful scent of Ceylon cinnamon we can enhance brain capability.  We know all of the incredible health benefits of consuming Ceylon cinnamon, but simply by smelling the cinnamon on a daily basis we can heighten brain function, making us smarter.

Boost Your Intake
Boost your cinnamon intake by tossing in your smoothies, sprinkling on your granola, oatmeal, cereal or toast, and tossing in your cooking.  It can also be enjoyed in your baking as well as in lattes and teas.

So there you have it, so many wonderful health benefits of Ceylon cinnamon. Remember, not all cinnamon is created equally.   Quality is super important when choosing cinnamon.  Always opt for Ceylon cinnamon plus make sure it’s fresh and organic to get the highest quality health benefits you and your family deserves. 

Visit www.ceyloncinnamon.ca for finest quality cinnamon.  Ceylon cinnamon is harder to find in stores which is why I support this company here. They distribute locally here in Toronto, I love supporting Toronto companies and they get their organic fair trade cinnamon from the beautiful southern coasts of Sri Lanka. 
 
Health, happiness and abundance,
Stephanie Morrison
Registered Holistic Nutritionist