The amazing health benefits of cinnamon

Cinnamon, one of the oldest spices around, is native to Sri Lanka. For thousands of years, cinnamon has been used, not only as a finishing touch to apple pie, it has been used as an alternative to medicine. Cinnamon is chock full of anti-oxidants that can heal ailments and fight illness. There are several health benefits to this age old spice.

Do you suffer from Arthritis?
Cinnamon may be able to reduce cytokines that are linked to arthritis pain. This was proved in a study conducted at the Department of Internal Medicine, Kangnam Korean Hospital. 

Are you Diabetic?
Cinnamon has a regulatory effect on blood sugar. You won't have to worry about cinnamon affecting your blood sugar.

Looking to boost brain function?
Studies have shown that if you smell cinnamon, it can boost memory and cognitive function.

Do you have bad breath?
Cinnamon can be used to fight tooth decay and bad breath. If you chew small pieces of cinnamon, or gargle with cinnamon and water, you can freshen your breath.

Worried about Cholesterol?
By adding one half teaspoon of cinnamon to your diet everyday, you can lower your cholesterol. Cinnamon has been shown to significantly lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.

All of the benefits listed are great reasons why you should keep some cinnamon around. Add some cinnamon to your oatmeal, sprinkle some into a cup of tea or coffee, and reap the wonderful benefits of cinnamon in your diet.

With fall just a few months away, you will be craving some hot tea. One of my favorite teas to drink in the fall is the Baked Cinnamon Apple. I highly recommend it. To order some online, click on the above photo.

(previously published by Shauna Silva on Yahoo Contributor Network)

[photo credit: www.dreamstime.com]