Why You Need a Daily Dose of Cinnamon
Cinnamon may have benefits beyond jazzing up your favorite hot cereal, says a new scientific review published in the journal Annals of Family Medicine by scientists from Western University of Health Sciences College of Pharmacy, the Western Diabetes Institute, and the University of Connecticut schools of medicine and pharmacy.
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The researchers found that regular users of the aromatic spice experienced declines in total and LDL cholesterol -- the bad kind of cholesterol, which can put you at risk for a heart attack -- and triglycerides, which are fats stored throughout the body that come from excess calories, sugar, and alcohol. Among cinnamon lovers, the research also found a slight boost in HDL levels (that's the good kind of cholesterol). Read: Cinnamon could help your heart.
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The daily "dose" you need? As little as a small sprinkling (less than 1/8 teaspoon) could be enough for some people; for others, it takes up to 2 1/2 teaspoons. For the higher amounts, you may want to reach for a supplement, not the spice jar. Cinnamon can also keep your blood sugar levels steady throughout the day, which means you'll experience fewer sugar rushes and hunger pangs.
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