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November's Feature |
The Season for Cinnamon
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Apple crisp, oatmeal, cinnamon toast and roasts
Stews, winter squash, sweet potato too
Spiced apple cider and casseroles galore
This is the season that I adore.
So much for my poetry, but I can tell you this:
Some researchers believe that as little as a ½ teaspoon of cinnamon daily may lower blood sugars by as much as 30% in people with type II diabetes.
Cinnamon may also help with heart health by lowering two blood fats called triglycerides and cholesterol.
Researchers are planning to study whether cinnamon can prevent the onset of diseases of the brain and nervous system as well.
It's important to point out that it will be years before we can prove any findings about health and cinnamon and that a problem with using spices as medicine is that they are not the same from one jar to the next.
Adding a little extra cinnamon to a daily routine of oatmeal or sliced apple can't hurt. Oats (whole grains) and apples (fruits) have certainly been shown to improve health. Cinnamon is a perfect compliment to these heart healthy and diabetic friendly foods.
If you like cinnamon, find ways to make it a part of your daily routine and enjoy the season.
Quick ideas:
- 1/3 tsp cinnamon with ½ cup unsweetened apple sauce or oatmeal
- 1 slice of whole wheat toast
Spread 1 tsp butter or smart balance spread on the toast
Combine ½ tsp cinnamon and 1 tsp sugar or Splenda and sprinkle on toast.
Alison R. Fernald, RD, LD
Source: http://www.canada.com/national/nationalpost/news/toronto 4/23/04
