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Feb 03
2012
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Did you know that cinnamon was at one time more valuable than gold? Can you recall all the times it is mentioned in the Bible, including in the Song of Solomon and also being used by Moses? We hear that this aromatic spice which was imported into Egypt as early as 2000 BC has many health benefits. Is it a good source of fiber? Does it inhibit the development of Alzheimer's? Does it have antiviral properties? The science is still unproven on many of these claims, but we don't see any studies which show using cinnamon is harmful. It certainly is a healthy choice to sprinkle on your oatmeal or cereal instead of sugar, and it perfectly flavors an apple, pear or winter squash for baking. We know it is low in cholesterol, saturated fat and sodium, and contains calcium, manganese, Vitamin K and iron. It can enhance the sweetness of foods even though it contains no sugar. It is currently the subject of many nutrition studies.
Whether cinnamon can lower blood sugar is a topic of debate — but recent research suggests that cinnamon may be helpful as a supplement to regulate diabetes treatment in people with type 2 diabetes. One study published in 2009 found that cinnamon taken twice a day for 90 days improved hemoglobin A1C levels in people with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes (hemoglobin A1C levels greater than 7 percent). One theory is that cinnamon increases insulin action.More research is needed to confirm these findings and determine how cinnamon supplementation leads to these benefits. In the meantime, put some cinnamon in a handy shaker and encourage your family to use it, especially in place of sugar, brown sugar or salt. (PS: Have you tried Emerald's Cinnamon Roasted Almonds? Yum! )
We are delighted to welcome licensed dietitian Patricia King, LD, MS, to the Kaizen Total Wellness team. Please call to schedule an appointment. Remember, if you are on Medicare, you may be entitled to obesity counseling, covered by Medicare! Call us for more information. 941-747-2090
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