Cinnamon is a popular spice loved for its sweet flavor and warm aroma. It’s a seasonal staple in many desserts and Starbucks drinks, but this spice also offers many health benefits.
With the help of Bailey Shupe, a registered dietitian with Banner Health, we explore the different types of cinnamon, its many benefits and easy ways to spice up your meals.
Types of cinnamon
Cinnamon is a spice made from the inner bark of trees from the Cinnamomum family. This golden-brown spice comes in several varieties, each with its own distinct flavor and aroma. Each type can change the taste and smell of what you are cooking or baking.
The four main types of cinnamon you might encounter are:
- Ceylon cinnamon: Often referred to as true cinnamon or soft cinnamon, Ceylon has a light brown color and a milder, sweeter flavor. It contains less coumarin, a substance that can be harmful in large amounts but is also responsible for its sweet smell. “Ceylon cinnamon is commonly used as a garnish for foods and drinks,” Shupe said.
- Cassia cinnamon: You likely have cassia in your pantry, as it is the most common cinnamon variety. It’s darker and has a stronger flavor. “Cassia cinnamon contains higher levels of coumarin, which can be toxic if you consume large amounts,” Shupe said. Cassia is often used in classic recipes, like ice creams, chili and pies.
- Korintje cinnamon: “This variety comes from Indonesia and is known as friendly cinnamon because its milder flavor pairs well with most dishes,” Shupe said. The light red-brown spice is cheaper and easier to harvest, so it’s affordable and easy to find in many grocery stores.
- Royal cinnamon: Also known as Saigon cinnamon, this spice is grown in Vietnam and is harder to find in the U.S. “Royal cinnamon is super sweet and spicy, which is why some people call it cinnamon times 10,” Shupe said. It is often used in curries, braised beef, smoothies and desserts.
Cinnamon: Spice vs. supplement vs. oil
Cinnamon can be consumed in different forms, including as a spice, supplement or essential oil. While all forms come from the same source, their use can differ.
Cinnamon as a spice
Cinnamon can be easily found at most grocery stores as cinnamon powder or cinnamon sticks. It can be added to sweet or savory dishes to enhance flavor and provide health benefits.
“The effective dose of cinnamon as a spice is usually one to six grams per day or a half to two teaspoons,” Shupe said. “This amount is considered safe for most people when used to flavor food.”
Cinnamon supplements
Cinnamon is also available in capsule or tablet form as a dietary supplement. While supplements may provide a more concentrated dose of cinnamon, the lack of regulation can make knowing what you’re getting tricky.
“There’s no established dosage for cinnamon supplements, but a standard recommendation is two to four grams per day,” Shupe said. “But because supplements contain more concentrated amounts of cinnamon, there is a higher risk of overconsumption which can lead to side effects.”
Talk to your health care provider before using cinnamon supplements.
Cinnamon oil
Cinnamon oil, extracted from the leaves or bark of the cinnamon tree, is used for topical purposes or aromatherapy. This essential oil is highly concentrated. Never consume or apply cinnamon oil directly to your skin without proper dilution.
Talk to your health care provider before using oils on your skin or ingesting them.
Health benefits of cinnamon
In addition to being tasty, cinnamon has been linked to several potential health benefits. However, the National Institutes of Health states, “Studies done on people don’t clearly support using cinnamon for any health condition.”
Despite this caution, some research suggests cinnamon may offer the following possible benefits:
- Blood sugar control: Some studies suggest cinnamon can improve insulin sensitivity, making it helpful for people with type 2 diabetes. Adding cinnamon to your meals might help lower blood sugar spikes after eating.
- Heart health: Cinnamon may support heart health by reducing total cholesterol, LDL (bad cholesterol) and triglycerides while raising HDL (good cholesterol). These factors may contribute to lowering your risk of heart disease.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Chronic inflammation is linked to many diseases, including heart disease and cancer. Cinnamon contains powerful antioxidants that may help fight inflammation.
- Antimicrobial effects: Cinnamon has natural antimicrobial properties that can help combat bacteria, fungi and viruses. This makes it a great addition to your diet, especially during cold and flu season.
- Brain health: Some studies suggest that cinnamon may protect brain health and improve cognitive function. It might also help prevent neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
- Weight management: Cinnamon may assist in weight management, helping control blood sugar levels, which can curb cravings. When your blood sugar is balanced, you’re less likely to reach for unhealthy snacks.
- Digestive health: Cinnamon may improve digestion, helping reduce bloating and gas. Its anti-inflammatory properties may soothe the digestive tract and keep your gut healthy.
Side effects of cinnamon
While you may benefit from supplementing with cinnamon, it’s best to talk to your health care provider first. Although rare, eating lots of cinnamon could be toxic, especially if you have liver problems. Cinnamon supplements could also interact with some medications. Some people may also be allergic to it.
“Given the lack of evidence about its safety, children, pregnant and breastfeeding individuals should avoid cinnamon as a treatment,” Shupe said.
How to use cinnamon in your diet
Adding cinnamon to your diet is easy. Here are some simple ways to incorporate it:
- Morning breakfast: Sprinkle cinnamon on your yogurt and oatmeal for added flavor.
- Baking: Use cinnamon in your baking recipes, like muffins and bread.
- Smoothies: Add a dash of cinnamon to smoothies and juices for a kick.
- Coffee and tea: Stir some cinnamon into your coffee or tea instead of sugar.
- Savory dish: Try adding cinnamon to curries and stews.
Conclusion
Cinnamon is more than just a flavor booster. It may also help support your overall health.
The form of cinnamon you choose depends on your goals. Stick with the spice if you want to add flavor to your meals. If you’re interested in the benefits of cinnamon for specific health concerns, talk to your health care provider or a Banner Health Specialist about whether a supplement might be right for you. And if you’re curious about essential oil, check with your provider if you plan to consume it or apply it to your skin.
