Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Health Benefits of Cinnamon


The earliest records of the use of cinnamon dates back to 2700 B.C in China, Europe, and Egypt. Cinnamon is a spice widely used around the holiday season from cooking to potpourri, but did you know that there are many healthy benefits to this spice as well? This spice offers many health benefits such as an anti-clotting agent, and antimicrobial. Some major effects of cinnamon are:

• Components of cinnamon act as antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory which may prove beneficial in reducing the symptoms of arthritis or urinary tract infections.
• Cinnamon may help to improve blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes. It is thought that some compounds within cinnamon help to stimulate the insulin receptors to allow the use of glucose more effectively.
• Some preliminary research suggests that the aroma of cinnamon may act as a cognitive stimulant allowing improvements in memory and recognition.

As you are spicing up your fall and winter lattés and feasts; take some time to recognize the great history and benefits that cinnamon may provide. For more information regarding cinnamon and cinnamon supplements look to our weekly blog for more information regarding supplementation and research behind the spice.

And for more information on healthy living, or to schedule a consultation for physical therapy, feel free to contact us at 518-690-4406 or visit our website at www.empirehwc.com or email us at ehwc7@nycap.rr.com.

William Milhizer, DPT, PT