Cinnamon, a spice renowned for its distinct aroma and flavor, also carries numerous health benefits when consumed correctly. Incorporating cinnamon into your diet in the form of cinnamon water can be a simple and effective way to enjoy these benefits. Here’s what happens to your body when you drink cinnamon water and how to properly prepare and consume it.
Health Benefits of Drinking Cinnamon Water
- Controls Blood Sugar Levels Cinnamon is well-known for its ability to lower blood sugar levels. It improves insulin sensitivity and slows the breakdown of carbohydrates in the digestive tract, which can help manage type 2 diabetes.
- Reduces Inflammation and Has Antioxidant Properties The compounds in cinnamon have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce the risk of disease and relieve pain. Additionally, its antioxidants protect the body from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals.
- Supports Heart Health Regular consumption of cinnamon has been linked to reduced risks of heart disease. It can lower levels of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides, while HDL cholesterol remains stable.
- Helps in Weight Loss Cinnamon boosts metabolism and has a thermogenic effect on the body, burning calories to produce heat. This can contribute to overall weight loss efforts when combined with a healthy diet and exercise.
- Fights Bacterial and Fungal Infections Cinnamon has powerful antimicrobial properties, making it effective against bacteria and fungi. It’s particularly good at combating respiratory tract infections caused by fungi.
How to Prepare and Drink Cinnamon Water
Ingredients:
- 1 stick of Ceylon cinnamon (preferably, as it is safer for daily consumption compared to Cassia cinnamon, which has higher coumarin levels)
- 1 liter of water
Instructions:
- Boil the Water: Bring the water to a boil in a pot or kettle.
- Add Cinnamon: Add the cinnamon stick to the boiling water and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows the cinnamon to infuse thoroughly.
- Cool and Store: Allow the water to cool, then store it in a pitcher or bottle in the refrigerator. You can drink it over the course of the day.
An Important Secret in Taking It
- Dosage and Frequency: The key to gaining cinnamon’s benefits without any adverse effects is moderation. Drinking one to two glasses of cinnamon water per day is generally safe for most people. However, consuming too much cinnamon daily, especially the Cassia variety, can lead to potential liver damage over time due to its coumarin content.
- Timing: Drinking cinnamon water in the morning can help kickstart your metabolism and digestive system effectively. Another good time is about half an hour before meals, which can help you feel fuller and aid in better digestion.
Cautions
- Pregnancy: Pregnant women should use cinnamon sparingly and consult healthcare providers before making it a regular part of their diet.
- Medication Interactions: If you are on medications, especially those that affect blood coagulation or blood sugar levels, consult your doctor before regularly consuming cinnamon water.
Drinking cinnamon water can be a healthful and flavorful addition to your daily routine. Just remember to use Ceylon cinnamon for daily consumption and to adhere to recommended amounts to fully enjoy its benefits without risks.
