subject: Cinnamon: A Tasty Treatment for Heart Disease [print this page] Cinnamon: A Tasty Treatment for Heart Disease
Everyone loves the spicy aroma of cinnamon baking in their favorite desserts but it is more than just a tasty flavoring. Cinnamon is beneficial in the prevention and treatment of heart disease. Although cinnamon has been used for thousands of years as a medicinal spice, scientific studies over the past 10 years have also found it an effective alternative medicine.
Heart Health Benefits of Cinnamon
Cinnamon aids in lowering low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, the bad cholesterol, while also lowering triglycerides (fat in the blood) and total cholesterol. One study of people with high cholesterol, and who also had type-2 diabetes, found that after 40 days, adding 1 to 6 grams of cinnamon powder to the diet lowered their total cholesterol up to 26 and triglycerides were lowered by up to 30 and 60 to 23%. Increased antioxidants in the body reduce the risk of damage from free radicals to cells. In the case of heart disease, antioxidants reduce the amount of plaque build-up in blood vessels and arteries, lowering the risk of heart attack or stroke.
How to Add Cinnamon to Your Diet
Cinnamon is available in capsule, tincture, powder or tea form. The recommended dose of cinnamon for reducing cholesterol is 250 milligrams, twice daily in capsule form. Adding cinnamon to spice up foods is also beneficial. Sprinkle cinnamon on healthy foods such as breakfast cereals, apples, tea or squash and enjoy its spicy flavor and health benefits.
Side-effects can occur if cinnamon is taken in large doses. Cinnamon does affect blood glucose levels so people who have diabetes should talk to a doctor before using it. Likewise, people taking blood thinners or who are on an aspirin regimen should also consult their doctor. Women who are pregnant or nursing should not take cinnamon supplements.
Adding cinnamon to the diet is an easy way to maintain healthy cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease. Whether you take cinnamon supplements or add cinnamon to foods, you are sure to enjoy its health benefits and savor its delight.
