Pastries and cinnemon on a decorated table

Cinnamon is a versatile food and can be used in a variety of ways.

It has antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
The essential oil extracted from cinnamon is effective against Escherichia coli bacteria and is responsible for reducing toxins produced in the body. This reduces fatigue and combats sudden weight gain, bad breath, constipation and skin reactions.

Cinnamon is also rich in antioxidants, such as polyphenols, which protect the body’s healthy cells against oxidative damage caused by free radicals.

The antioxidants in cinnamon also have anti-inflammatory properties and help fight inflammation and strengthen the body against diseases such as the flu, viruses, arthritis and tuberculosis.

Accelerates metabolism and helps you lose weight
Cinnamic acid is an essential oil that gives cinnamon its flavor and smell and is responsible for helping to speed up the metabolism. It stimulates thermogenesis, the body’s metabolic process that burns calories quickly in order to produce body heat, thus causing weight loss.

Improves digestion
It acts as a natural digestive aid, helping to digest food, which is then better utilized by the body.

Ally against diabetes
Reduces the level of glucose entering the bloodstream after a meal. Some studies show that this spice can cause a 10 to 29% reduction in blood sugar levels when consumed on an empty stomach.

Reduces the risk of heart disease
Some studies show that the spice can lower levels of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and triglycerides because of its antioxidants. It also contributes to increasing HDL (known as “good” cholesterol) and lowering blood pressure.

Related article: Recipe for Rice pudding, cinnamon and vanilla

The big difference between Pastéis de Belém and Pastéis de Nata