Healthista’s Nutritional Director Rick Hay explains the benefits of cinnamon and how to get it
Healthy foods, snacks and drinks have exploded on to the market and it’s left us feeling spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding what non-artificial energy bar or detox tea we are going to try next.
But how much do we know about trendy ingredients really? This is why we asked Healthista’s Nutritional Director Rick Hay to fill in the blanks on the most confusing super-nutrients of the moment. Today, he’s covering cinnamon.
Rick Hay says: ‘Cinnamon helps regulate blood sugar and so in turn, reduces cravings. This is especially beneficial for weight management or weight loss.
By regulating blood sugar, cinnamon can also improve mood and keep it steady, a benefit that has been shown in research with people who have Type 2 diabetes’.
Cinnamon contains an important oil called eugenol, which has antiseptic properties – therefore helping the immune system too.
In addition, studies from the University of Science, Malaysia show that cinnamon is good for cardiovascular health as it was found to have the potential to be used to treat cardiovascular diseases.
Looking for a nutrient powder that contains cinnamon? Try the Healthista ‘Night Food’ Powder
Cinnamon can be added to porridge and smoothies to help regulate blood sugar. You can even try poaching pears or apples in some cinnamon and sugar.
Of you’ve got sweet cravings mid-afternoon, try a teaspoon of aloe vera juice, such as Pukka Organic Aloe Vera Juice (£11.95 from Healthista Shop) in a little water with a sprinkling of cinnamon – this is an Ayurvedic remedy that really works.
Rick Hay is an Anti-Ageing and Fitness Nutritionist with many years clinical experience in nutrition, naturopathy, botanical medicine and iridology. He specializes in obesity treatment and weight management. He writes a regular Natural Health and Fitness Blog for Healthista. Find out more at rickhay.co.uk. Follow Rick on Twitter @rickhayuk
Rick Hays book the Anti Ageing Food and Fitness Plan is available to buy on Amazon.
More from Rick Hay:
Anti Ageing Fitness Plan: Week 6
5 foods to keep your body young
5 foods to eat when you’re frantic
10 pre-exercise snacks that WON’T ruin your diet
FOOD is seven a day the new five a day?
HOW TO Choose a protein powder
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