ARE YOU BUYING THE RIGHT CINNAMON?
This time of year rolls around and we want to put Cinnamon in and on everything. The warm spices make give us that cozy comfort feeling of holidays and curling up next to the fire.
But did you know you might be putting the wrong kind of Cinnamon in your drinks and on your pies?!
The Cinnafits…
Ok, that was supposed to be Cinnamon and benefits together… get it? haha. So we know there are tons of benefits from Cinnamon, like antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, improved insulin sensitivities, lowering blood sugar and it helps with bacteria and fungal infections.
I know… not only does Cinnamon taste amazing, it is amazing. But that’s if you are using the right Cinnamon.
Differences Types Of Cinnamon
Currently, there are 4 different types of Cinnamon on the market, Ceylon, Cassia, Saigon, and Korintje Cinnamon. Although Saigon, Korintje, and Cassia are so similar they pretty much classify them as Cassia. Cassia is the most common Cinnamon out there and probably the one you have in your cupboard right now.
Ceylon Cinnamon is sweeter and more delicate in taste. This is the cinnamon you want to be buying because it contains less coumarin.
The Not So Good Points Of Cinnamon
Coumarin is a natural plant chemical that acts as a blood thinner. Large amounts of coumarin can cause liver damage or even liver failure. Unfortunately, coumarin is in all Cinnamons.
Cassia cinnamon has higher levels (about 0.4-0.8%) of coumarin and has even been banned in some European countries. YIKES! Whereas Ceylon Cinnamon has lower (0.03-0.04%) levels of coumarin making it less toxic and easier on our bodies.
I’m sure you are thinking… I’ve probably got to eat a lot of Cinnamon for it to be toxic to me. You’d have to eat about 15 cups of Cassia Cinnamon for it to be lethal. And I’m sure you’re not going to be doing that any time soon. I guess that puts a new spin on too much of a good thing!
Why Ceylon Is A Better Option
Even though Ceylon still contains smaller amounts of coumarin in it, it is still a better alternative to Cassia. Ceylon has an antioxidant called proanthocyanidins.
This antioxidant is are similar to the ones found in green tea and grapes. It not only strengthens capillaries but also aids in protection against heart disease and cancer. Those are some pretty good benefits of Cinnamon.
Buying The Right Cinnamon
Most commercial Cinnamons are going to be Cassia, being the more abundant and cheaper version. Unless the packaging says Ceylon Cinnamon on it, then it will be Cassia Cinnamon.
So the next time you are at the store, look for Ceylon Cinnamon to use this holiday season and get all the benefits it offers.
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