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cinnamon

This page last changed 2024.10.16 05:09 [1 time today, 2 times yesterday, and 3 total times]

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Cinnamon Supplementation

Differences Between Ceylon, Cassia and other types of Cinnamon

Except for Ceylon Cinnamon, the other types all contain higher coumarin levels which may cause liver damage if consumed in excess.

  • Ceylon Cinnamon (“true” cinnamon):
    • Contains low levels of coumarin, making it safer for long-term consumption.
    • Contains typically .0004g coumarin per teaspoon
  • Cassia Cinnamon (Chinese cinnamon)
    • Contains 5–12 mg of coumarin per teaspoon
  • Saigon Cinnamon (Vietnamese cinnamon, sold by Costco Kirkland)
    • contains 8-12 mg per teaspoon
  • Korintje cinnamon (Indonesian cinnamon)
    • contains 2-8 mg per teaspoon

Potential Benefits of Cinnamon

  • Blood Sugar Control: May improve insulin sensitivity and reduce fasting blood sugar.
  • Anti-inflammatory Effects: Helps lower inflammation markers.
  • Cholesterol Reduction: May reduce LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.
  • Antioxidant Properties: Protects cells from oxidative damage.
  • Ceylon Cinnamon: Up to 1 teaspoon (5 grams) per day.
  • Cassia/Saigon Cinnamon (including Kirkland brand):
    • Limit to 1/4 - 1/2 teaspoon daily to avoid excess coumarin.
  • Coumarin Tolerable Daily Intake:
    • 0.1 mg per kg of body weight.
    • Examples:
      • A 50 kg (110 lbs) person should not exceed 5 mg coumarin/day
      • A 70 kg (154 lbs) person should not exceed 7 mg coumarin/day.
      • A 90 kg (198 lbs) person should not exceed 9 mg coumarin/day

Using Cinnamon in Your Daily Routine

  • Coffee/Espresso:
    • Add a pinch of cinnamon to espresso before brewing or to steamed milk for lattes.
    • Stir cinnamon into cold brew concentrate for a warm flavor boost.
  • Oatmeal and Smoothies:
    • Add 1/2 teaspoon to oatmeal or 1/4 teaspoon to smoothies.
  • Baking:
    • Use cinnamon in flourless brownies, pumpkin bread, or other baked goods.
  • Cinnamon Tea:
    • Boil a stick of cinnamon for 10 minutes, adding apple cider vinegar for tang.
  • Yogurt or Fruit:
    • Sprinkle cinnamon on yogurt or fruit (like figs or blueberries).

Precautions

  • Medication Interactions: Cinnamon may interact with statins, blood thinners, and diabetes medications.
  • Liver Health: Due to coumarin content, Cassia cinnamon should be consumed in moderation, especially if you are on a statin.
  • Switching to Ceylon Cinnamon: For regular consumption, Ceylon cinnamon is safer. It can be found online or in specialty stores.

Summary

  • If using Kirkland Saigon Cinnamon, limit your intake to 1/4–1/2 teaspoon daily.
  • Consider switching to Ceylon cinnamon for safer, long-term use.
  • Incorporate cinnamon into coffee, smoothies, oatmeal, and baked goods for added flavor and potential health benefits.
cinnamon.txt · Last modified: 2024.10.16 08:09 by Steve Isenberg