Does eating cinnamon actually makes you feel full?

There has been a lot of research around using cinnamon to help reduce blood sugars in diabetics. 

Cinnamon isn't just a flavourful spice used to enhance the taste of various dishes; it also boasts a range of health benefits that have been recognised for centuries.

One of its most notable benefits is its potential to aid in managing blood sugar levels, particularly in individuals with diabetes.

Research has indicated that cinnamon may help reduce blood sugar levels by slowing down the rate at which the stomach empties after a meal.

This delayed emptying of your stomach can lead to a prolonged feeling of fullness, which may help in controlling appetite and preventing overeating.

Additionally, the gradual release of sugars from food into the bloodstream can contribute to more stable blood sugar levels, reducing the need for sudden spikes in insulin production.

Cinnamon's ability to positively impact blood sugar levels has garnered significant attention, especially in regions like Africa and India, where it has been a staple in culinary traditions for centuries. In these cultures, cinnamon isn't just a spice; it's a symbol of flavor and wellness.

Derived from the bark of the cinnamon tree, this aromatic spice contains compounds like cinnamaldehyde, which give it its distinct flavor and aroma. Beyond its role in culinary delights, cinnamon has been used in traditional medicine for various purposes, including treating digestive issues, inflammation, and even infections.

Moreover, cinnamon is rich in antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. These antioxidants may contribute to its potential health-promoting effects, including protecting against chronic diseases like heart disease and certain types of cancer.

Incorporating cinnamon into your daily diet can be as simple as sprinkling it over your morning oatmeal, adding it to baked goods, or stirring it into your favorite beverages.

However, it's essential to consume cinnamon in moderation, as excessive intake may lead to adverse effects, particularly for individuals with certain health conditions or those taking medications.

While cinnamon holds promise as a natural remedy for managing blood sugar levels and promoting overall health, it’s the secondary to reducing your carbohydrates and sugar intake, eating more protein and exercising if you can. so think of it as delicious aid to reduce your calorie intake when that’s what is needed.

With its rich history and flavour, and potential health benefits, cinnamon undoubtedly deserves a prominent place in both the kitchen and the medicine cabinet.

Q. Does cinnamon really come from the tree bark?

Yes, cinnamon does indeed come from the bark of certain trees belonging to the Cinnamomum genus. There are several varieties of cinnamon trees, but the two most commonly used for commercial purposes are Cinnamomum verum (Ceylon cinnamon) and Cinnamomum cassia (Cassia cinnamon).

The process of harvesting cinnamon involves cutting the stems of the cinnamon tree and stripping off the outer bark. The inner bark is then carefully extracted and allowed to dry, curling into the characteristic cinnamon sticks or quills. These quills are then either used whole or ground into the powdered cinnamon spice that we are familiar with.

So, when you're enjoying the warm, aromatic flavor of cinnamon in your favorite dishes or beverages, you're savoring the essence of the tree's bark itself.

I still have a jar of Moroccan ground cinnamon and I like to sprinkle it over yogurt and granola as well as using it to cook a tyical meat Tangine along with other spices such as cumin.