The Season for Cinnamon

Is it just me, or have you noticed that cinnamon appears to be a hot topic these days? It’s no wonder. The unmistakable aroma and flavor of the ever-popular spice isn’t just something that is synonymous with the holidays. The use of cinnamon is highly popular during all winter months (and year round). And what’s even better for cinnamon lovers? The health benefits of cinnamon are becoming unveiled every day.

Cinnamon is, literally, the dried inner bark trees in the tropical Asian genus called Cinnamomum. This layer of the bark carries a good amount of nutrients within it. When it’s cut from the tree, it curls into its signature long stick form.

Aside from flavor, cinnamon has many health benefits. To name just a few:

• It’s an excellent antioxidant source. This is great news for keeping our immune systems strong during these cold months.
• Cinnamon has been known to keep you fuller longer, and it helps control blood sugar levels.
• Cinnamon has an anti-clotting effect on the blood.
• Studies have found that smelling cinnamon can boost cognitive function and memory.
• It’s an excellent source of fiber, iron, manganese, and calcium.
• Studies have shown that ½ teaspoon of cinnamon a day can help lower LDL cholesterol.
• It acts as a food preservative, inhibiting bacterial growth and food spoilage.
• Cinnamon has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory qualities.

An added bonus of the spice is its versatility. Cinnamon’s myriad uses allow you to utilize it in just about any dish you choose, from savory to sweet. Some ideas, as well as some of my favorite uses of cinnamon:

• Start the morning off with a cup of hot water, freshly squeezed lemon, honey and a dash (or two) of cinnamon.
• Kick up your morning bowl of oatmeal with a few sprinkles of cinnamon. To incorporate the flavor even more, I like to add a few dashes of ground cinnamon to the pot just as the oatmeal is finished cooking.
• Add a little spice to your afternoon bowl of fresh-cut fruit and yogurt.
• Marry it with your marinades in meat dishes.
• Do you reside in one of the 49 states that were draped in snow this week? Heat up a delectable cup of hot cocoa and sprinkle it with cinnamon for an extra cozy treat.

Are you a fan of cinnamon? What’s your preferred way to enjoy its flavor and benefits?

Cheers,
~JF