Cinnamon, also known as Ceylon cinnamon, is a spice obtained from the bark of the bushy evergreen tree of the laurel family. Cinnamon is a native of Sri Lanka, formerly known as Ceylon, giving it the name Ceylon cinnamon. It is also cultivated in India, Myanmar, South America, and the West Indies.
It is mainly used as an aromatic substance, adding aroma and flavor to a variety of cuisines ranging from sweet to savory dishes, It is also used as a major ingredient in bakery goods. Cinnamaldehyde, the main ingredient and essential oil of cinnamon, along with several other ingredients, such as eugenol, are responsible for the spice’s aroma and flavor.
Cinnamon has several medicinal properties. With its antioxidant properties and fiber content, it aids in weight loss, Cinnamon water or cinnamon tea can be used to reduce belly fat and in the weight loss regime.
Key Takeaways:
- Incorporate cinnamon into your diet: Add it to water, tea, smoothies, or sprinkle on oatmeal.
- Consume cinnamon before meals to control appetite and aid digestion.
- Avoid consuming cinnamon at night to prevent disrupting sleep patterns; best taken in the morning on an empty stomach.
Cinnamon In A Weight Loss Regime
Cinnamon aids in reducing belly fat and in the weight loss regime. The anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, and thermogenesis-promoting properties help in the reduction of belly fat. The consumption of cinnamon water and cinnamon tea can be the best way to incorporate cinnamon into a weight-loss diet. Intake of cinnamon, along with a healthy diet and proper exercise, can contribute to attaining maximum results.
Fibers That Aid Fat-burning
Cinnamon is rich in fiber. The large amount of fiber helps achieve the daily fiber content intake goals. This results in a feeling of fullness, cutting down on the intake of extra-calorie meals. The fiber in cinnamon also helps to improve the digestion process and bowel movement.
The cinnamaldehyde in the spice triggers fat burning in the body by the adipose tissue. This component increases the process of thermogenesis, which results in the fat-burning process. The process called browning, which increases the brite cells, is also induced by cinnamon.
The bright cells are adipose cells that increase the use of energy, resulting in the reduction of extra fat in the body.
Polyphenols In Appetite Regulation
Polyphenols, the phytochemicals present in cinnamon, aid in weight loss. Cinnamaldehyde and procyanidins are some of the phytochemicals abundantly present in cinnamon.
- The polyphenols generate a feeling of fullness, limiting the extra intake of calories and cravings and thus controlling overeating.
- It is also associated with anti-inflammatory properties. The consumption of cinnamon, therefore, helps in controlling obesity as it is associated with inflammation.
- The consumption and activity of microbial flora, the microorganisms that are present in the skin and mucous membranes of healthy human beings, are linked with polyphenols. This promotes a healthy gut, aiding in better metabolism and weight management.
Balanced Sugar Consumption
Cinnamon suppresses many digestive enzymes, making it a popular anti-diabetic spice.
- The sugar level in the body after a high-carbohydrate meal is slowed down by the intake of cinnamon. This prevents the rapid rise of blood sugar levels.
- The polyphenols in cinnamon regulate the insulin sensitivity of the body.
- The condiment’s decreased ability to absorb carbohydrates promotes metabolism and healthy weight management.
The Best Way To Use Cinnamon For Weight Loss
Cinnamon can be incorporated into the diet in several ways. The best methods to use cinnamon for weight loss and reduced belly fat are the consumption of cinnamon water, cinnamon tea or coffee, cinnamon smoothies, cinnamon on oatmeal, and other snacks.
Cinnamon Water
Cinnamon water aids in fat loss and belly fat reduction. Add 1 cinnamon stick or 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to 1 liter of water. Add lemon or sliced cucumber, if needed, and serve it chilled.
Cinnamon Tea/Coffee
Brew a cup of cinnamon tea or coffee with a cinnamon stick or 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon in hot water. Drinking this tea before meals will help control appetite and promote digestion. Sprinkling a pinch of cinnamon into the morning tea or coffee will also help to maintain weight management.
Cinnamon Smoothies
Adding a half teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the smoothies will help curb cravings and maintain blood sugar levels.
Cinnamon on Oatmeal
Sprinkling ground cinnamon into a bowl of oatmeal or yogurt can add flavor to the meal without adding extra calories. It also contributes to a feeling of fullness.
Related: Rice Water And Cinnamon For Weight Loss: Benefits And Preparation!
Appropriate Time for the Intake of Cinnamon for Weight Loss
Cinnamon tea or water is highly recommended in the early morning on an empty stomach. In the early mornings, the body is more prone to fat-burning and energy expenditure.
However, cinnamon consumption for weight loss is not recommended at night, mainly after the consumption of food, as it may have a negative impact on the body, disrupting the sleep cycle.
Conclusion
Cinnamon is one of the well-known herbal remedies that can help with weight loss. It maintains the body’s general metabolic process on course and aids in the effective burning of fat. The spice is an ideal addition to a weight-loss diet plan because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities. To get the maximum results, combine it with exercise and a nutritious diet for optimal effects.
