CINNAMON: AN IMPERATIVE SPICE FOR HUMAN COMFORT

Cinnamon is a spice that has ancient origins and is popularly used as flavorings, as a condiment and in cooking. Cinnamon is also known to provide various medicinal benefits that include lowering of blood cholesterol, for diabetes. Cinnamon is obtained from the bark of the Cinnamon tree.. The importance of cinnamon in cookery and medicine has been known since time immemorial, which is evident from the fossil remains that interpret its cultivation in ancient times. Today, It’s not only known for as a strong flavored spice, but it has gained tremendous applications in therapeutic intervention. The bark itself is used for extracting essential oil. As far as cinnamon nutrition is concerned, it contains more than 80 nutrients, beneficial for proper functioning of the body. The unique aroma and pungency of cinnamon are attributed to the compounds cinnamaldehyde and cinnamic aldehyde. Giving due importance to the health benefits of cinnamon, rigorous studies have been done regarding the nutrition facts. Low in cholesterol, saturated fats, sugar, and sodium, It’s an excellent flavoring ingredient for people with heart related problems. Cinnamon contains polyphenols, which are natural antioxidants, that help in regulating blood sugar levels. Certain compounds present in cinnamon stimulate the insulin receptors and thus help the body to use up glucose in the right way. Studies have shown that cinnamon can prove beneficial for those who suffer from diabetes, especially type 2 diabetes. Cinnamon improves insulin resistance, that helps in weight control. This explains the use of cinnamon for weight loss. The total calorie content in 6.8 g of cinnamon is 17. Out of this, only 1 calorie is contributed by fats (total fat content is 0.2 g per 1 tablespoon) and zero % from saturated fats. Overall, It’s good for health conscious people. The amount of carbohydrates in 1 tablespoon serving size is approximately 5.5 g. Unlike other carbohydrate containing food items, it shows a negligible amount of sugar (only 0.1g per 1 tablespoon). The high %age content of dietary fiber (3.6 g in 1 tablespoon) also makes it a preferred spice among people having digestive problems. Using it regularly will reduce indigestion, constipation, and intestinal disorders. The concentration of protein in cinnamon is relatively low, as compared to that of calcium, iron, and dietary fiber content. Serving 6.8 g of the same will provide you 0.3 g proteins. Needless to say, you get proteins from other food ingredients. So, It’s not at all a concerning issue. It’s good source of calcium and iron; having 1 tablespoon of cinnamon is sufficient to yield 14 % calcium and 31 % iron of the daily requirements of an adult. Nevertheless, the requirements may vary slightly as per your calorie needs. It also contains high amounts of vitamin A and C along with minerals like Zn, K, Mg, and Mn. A 6.8 g serving provides 20 % vitamin A and 12 % vitamin C of the daily requirements of an adult.