Cinnamon, its beneficial properties and contraindications. Calorie content of cinnamon and its use for weight loss Cinnamon carbohydrates

Today we will talk about a very fragrant and tasty spice - cinnamon. Surprisingly, it is used not only in cooking! We will talk about where and how this oriental spice is used in this article. Currently, a healthy lifestyle and compliance are relevant proper nutrition. Therefore, the calorie content of cinnamon is quite necessary information, especially for those who often eat it.

What is cinnamon?

Cinnamon is the dried bark of an evergreen tree called cinnamon. This is a Ceylon tree from the family, oddly enough, laurel. Cinnamon was first discovered in Sri Lanka, later it took root perfectly in Madagascar, Java, Sumatra, as well as in Brazil, Vietnam and Egypt. The main use of cinnamon is as a spicy seasoning, which can be purchased both ground and in the form of tube-wrapped pieces of bark. The dimensions of such tubes usually reach from five to ten centimeters in length.

Despite the fact that cinnamon is just a spice added to dishes in small quantities, do not forget about its energy value. The calorie content of cinnamon per 100 grams is not less than 247 and not more than 267 kilocalories. But don't let this number scare you, because cinnamon is an incredibly light seasoning and is used in very small quantities. Judge for yourself: the calorie content of a teaspoon of cinnamon is only thirty-five calories! And far from every pastry goes even a full teaspoon of this fragrant spice. The calorie content of one stick, which weighs no more than four grams, is only ten kilocalories. In cooking, not only cinnamon sticks are often used, but also ground cinnamon.

The benefits of oriental spice

Due to the high content of micro and macro elements, vitamins and biologically active components, cinnamon is not only used in the preparation of desserts and drinks, but is also widely used in the field of cosmetology, traditional medicine and even for weight loss.

Traditional medicine actively uses cinnamon as a product that reduces blood sugar levels. An improvement in digestion and the work of the cardiovascular system has been repeatedly noticed with its frequent use in food. What is most pleasant, in this case, the calorie content of cinnamon still remains rather low, because it is used in small quantities even in therapeutic measures.

Cinnamon is a favorite product for cosmetologists as well. After all, it has such properties as toning and cleansing the skin, and also smoothes fine wrinkles. It is often used as part of masks to lighten age spots and smooth out small scars.

It is not surprising that cinnamon oil is often used by perfumers to create their enchanting fragrances. After all, it is the aroma of cinnamon that adds shades of temptation and sensuality to any perfume.

Cinnamon for weight loss - myth or reality?

Very often, the representatives of the weaker sex are at least a little, but dissatisfied with their figure. And in the fight against excess weight, as they say, all means are good. Due to its relatively low calorie content, cinnamon is very often used not only as a fragrant seasoning, but also as a means of promoting the process of losing weight. It perfectly speeds up the metabolic process, which helps to quickly get rid of body fat in the most problematic areas. In this section, we will look at the most popular cinnamon recipes that will help you improve the functioning of the digestive and excretory systems.

Kefir with cinnamon is a very tasty and incredibly healthy drink. It can serve as a snack or as a complete meal replacement. Just a pinch of ground cinnamon is enough for a glass of low-fat kefir. The calorie content of such a drink is no more than fifty kilocalories.

Coffee with cinnamon is an option for those who cannot imagine their morning without a cup of freshly brewed aromatic drink. An important point: do not add sugar! The dosage of the spice is the same as in the recipe with kefir: one pinch per cup of drink.

A tasty and healthy breakfast with cinnamon is a serving of oatmeal with bran, half a banana and half a spoonful of spices. Such a breakfast will not only saturate your body with the necessary vitamins and minerals, but also cleanse the intestines and speed up the metabolism.

The combination of cinnamon and ginger is just an enchanting pair of spices for weight loss, which can be used not only inside, but also for cosmetic wraps. Since it is in the complex that they accelerate metabolism as much as possible, remove toxins and slags and perfectly burn excess fat. Therefore, we advise you to adopt this fragrant couple.

Conclusion

Today we tried to answer in detail questions about the calorie content of cinnamon, its beneficial properties and ways to lose weight when using it. Now the choice is yours - still fragrant seasoning or start using it for weight loss.

Cinnamon: a characteristic of the composition, what a healing effect the spice has, when it should be abandoned. What dishes are cooked with spices?

The content of the article:

Cinnamon is a fragrant spice and an excellent remedy for many ailments. This spice is made from the bark of the evergreen tree of the same name, which is classified as a member of the Lavrov family, the genus Cinnamon. The Latin name for the plant is Cinnamomum verum. Cinnamon has been known to people since ancient times. The spice is supplied from India and Sri Lanka. Its most common species are Cassia (Chinese) and Ceylon. The first spice is just a bark from a related tree, in other words, not a real product. But the second type has both excellent quality and sweet taste.

The composition and calorie content of cinnamon


The healing effect of cinnamon on the body is justified by the richest vitamin and "mineral" composition. There are also essential amino acids, several types of carbohydrates, phytosterols and dietary fiber.

Calorie content of cinnamon - 247 kcal per 100 grams of product, of which:

  • Proteins - 4 g;
  • Fats - 1.2 g;
  • Carbohydrates - 27.5 g;
  • Dietary fiber - 53.1 g;
  • Water - 10.58 g;
  • Ash - 3.6 g.
Vitamin composition of cinnamon per 100 g:
  • Vitamin A, RE - 15 mcg;
  • Alpha Carotene - 1 mcg;
  • Beta Carotene - 0.112 mg;
  • Beta Cryptoxanthin - 129 mcg;
  • Lycopene - 15 mcg;
  • Lutein + Zeaxanthin - 222 mcg;
  • Vitamin B1, thiamine - 0.022 mg;
  • Vitamin B2, riboflavin - 0.041 mg;
  • Vitamin B4, choline - 11 mg;
  • Vitamin B5, pantothenic acid - 0.358 mg;
  • Vitamin B6, pyridoxine - 0.158 mg;
  • Vitamin B9, folates - 6 mcg;
  • Vitamin C, ascorbic acid - 3.8 mg;
  • Vitamin E, alpha tocopherol, TE - 2.32 mg;
  • Gamma Tocopherol - 10.44 mg;
  • Delta Tocopherol - 0.26 mg;
  • Vitamin K, phylloquinone - 31.2 mcg;
  • Vitamin PP, NE - 1.332 mcg;
  • Betaine - 3.9 mg.
Macronutrients per 100 g:
  • Potassium, K - 431 mg;
  • Calcium, Ca - 1002 mg;
  • Magnesium, Mg - 60 mg;
  • Sodium, Na - 10 mg;
  • Phosphorus, Ph - 64 mg.
Trace elements per 100 g:
  • Iron, Fe - 8.32 mg;
  • Manganese, Mn - 17.446 mg;
  • Copper, Cu - 339 mcg;
  • Selenium, Se - 3.1 mcg;
  • Zinc, Zn - 1.83 mg.
Digestible carbohydrates per 100 g:
  • Mono- and disaccharides (sugar) - 2.17 g;
  • Glucose (dextrose) - 1.04 g;
  • Sucrose - 0.02 g;
  • Fructose - 1.11 g.
Essential amino acids per 100 g:
  • Arginine - 0.166 g;
  • Valine - 0.224 g;
  • Histidine - 0.117 g;
  • Isoleucine - 0.146 g;
  • Leucine - 0.253 g;
  • Lysine - 0.243 g;
  • Methionine - 0.078 g;
  • Threonine - 0.136 g;
  • Tryptophan - 0.049 g;
  • Phenylalanine - 0.146 mg.
Non-essential amino acids per 100 g:
  • Alanine - 0.166 g;
  • Aspartic acid - 0.438 g;
  • Glycine - 0.195 g;
  • Glutamic acid - 0.37 g;
  • Proline - 0.419 g;
  • Serine - 0.195 g;
  • Tyrosine - 0.136 g;
  • Cysteine ​​- 0.058 g.
Of the sterols (sterols), 100 g of the product contains only phytosterols in the amount of 26 mg.

Fatty saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated acids per 100 g:

  • Omega-3 - 0.011 g;
  • Omega-6 - 0.044 g;
  • Capric - 0.003 g;
  • Lauric - 0.006 g;
  • Myristic - 0.009 g;
  • Palmitic - 0.104 g;
  • Margarine - 0.136 g;
  • Stearic - 0.082 g;
  • Palmitoleic - 0.001 g;
  • Oleic (omega-9) - 0.246 g;
  • Linoleic - 0.044 g;
  • Linolenic - 0.011 g;
  • Omega-3, alpha-linolenic - 0.011 g.

Useful properties of cinnamon


Cinnamon is rich in vitamins and minerals and therefore has wonderful properties in the treatment of many ailments. What is the healing effect of spices on the human body:
  1. Increases immunity. All that wealth of vitamins and minerals listed above works to increase the vitality of the body.
  2. Relieves flu and sore throat. This spice enhances sweating, improves breathing, relieves swelling from the nasopharyngeal mucosa, and also relieves headaches. For this purpose, it is advised to drink hot or warm drinks with cinnamon, for example, tea with honey and spices. Also, bee nectar with it should be taken when coughing.
  3. Improves the functioning of the digestive tract. This seasoning is especially effective in the presence of ulcers, it lowers the acidity of the stomach and helps digest food.
  4. Relieves bowel problems. As an astringent, cinnamon is effective for both diarrhea and constipation, and it also causes a better discharge of gases.
  5. Reduces the likelihood of cancer. In particular, this applies to cancer of the colon and bones. This is due to the fiber fibers and calcium in the composition of this spice, which “neutralize” bile salts, thereby contributing to their removal from the body.
  6. Helps with diseases of the liver and choleretic system. It has a cleansing effect on the mentioned organs, and also removes unnecessary bile salts.
  7. Useful for kidney and bladder problems. Cinnamon removes excess fluid from the body and has a beneficial effect on infections in these organs. For this purpose, it is advised to drink drinks with this spice.
  8. Effective in the treatment of diabetes. The polyphenol in this spice improves the absorption of insulin.
  9. Prevents the occurrence of inflammatory diseases. Even a small portion of the spice per day, about half a teaspoon, will help with this.
  10. Strengthens vision. For this purpose, you need to consume a few pinches of cinnamon per day.
  11. Prevents student fatigue. Thanks to the rich vitamin composition This spice helps strengthen memory and focus.
  12. Normalizes the menstrual cycle and improves sperm quality. This is due to the vitamins and minerals contained in cinnamon.
  13. Helps the organs of the cardiovascular system. This spice is recommended to use for the prevention of heart attack. It also lowers cholesterol levels, prevents the formation of blood clots, normalizes blood pressure.
  14. Helps with arthritis. The use of cinnamon has an analgesic effect in this ailment and facilitates the movement of people.
  15. Improves mood. This seasoning performs the functions of antidepressants, has a positive effect on the body with insomnia.
  16. Helps to lose weight. This is due to the property of cinnamon to increase the rate of metabolic processes, for this purpose it is recommended to drink tea with honey and cinnamon or coffee with spice without sugar and cream.

Harm and contraindications to the use of cinnamon


By itself, cinnamon will not harm a person, provided that it is reasonable, i.e. in moderation, add this seasoning to dishes and drinks, and do not abuse it. Increasing the dosage of spice to insane limits causes bad consequences. The fact is that it contains a fragrant substance called coumarin, which leads to serious liver damage, and this process is asymptomatic.

Ceylon cinnamon is safer in this regard, since this harmful substance is contained here a little, but in Chinese (cassia) coumarin is 100 times more. Therefore, when buying this seasoning, you need to look at the country of origin. If for some reason it is unknown, it is better to abandon the seasoning.

Now consider who should not use cinnamon:

  • Patients with severe liver disease. It has already been mentioned above about the effect of coumarin on this organ.
  • Pregnant women. This spice promotes uterine contractions and can cause miscarriage.
  • Patients with bleeding and high blood pressure. These categories of people are not recommended to consume cinnamon often and in high doses. But if possible, it is better to refuse the seasoning altogether.
  • People with individual intolerance. Cinnamon, like any product or seasoning, can cause allergic reactions of a different nature.
With disorders of the nervous system and increased excitability, it is worth eating cinnamon in moderation so as not to provoke further damage to the central nervous system.

Cinnamon Recipes


Cinnamon not only has many medicinal properties, it is also widely used in cooking. With its use, a variety of desserts, chocolate, pastries are prepared. Coffee lovers add a pinch of spice to a cup of this aromatic drink. But the inhabitants of the East are very fond of seasoning meat with cinnamon.

Cinnamon Recipes:

  1. Buckwheat-curd casserole with cinnamon. Components: 2 faceted glasses of cereals, 2 tea glasses of milk, 1 faceted glass of water, 400 g of cottage cheese. So few ingredients? No, that's not all. We will also need: butter (100 g), 2 eggs, sugar (4 tablespoons), lemon zest (1 tablespoon), breadcrumbs (3 tablespoons) and, of course, cinnamon (0.2 tablespoons). First of all, fry buckwheat in a dry frying pan, then cook it until it swells in water with salt and oil. Then pour milk and continue cooking until thickened. Cool the porridge and add cottage cheese mixed with eggs, sugar, spices to it. We spread all this mass in a greased form (it can be a deep frying pan), sprinkle with breadcrumbs on top and put another piece of butter. We bake in the oven. Here's an easy-to-prepare dish that can diversify your menu.
  2. Potato meatballs. Let's prepare the dough first. To do this, boil 8 potatoes and pass them through a meat grinder. We drive 1 egg into this potato mass, add also half a glass of flour and semolina, 2 g of cinnamon and salt to taste. From this wonderful dough we will form meatballs and fry them in vegetable oil. You can eat both hot and chilled.
  3. Cabbage stew with cinnamon. First, cut the cabbage into strips (600 g) and chop 1 onion, then fry these vegetables in vegetable oil (1 tablespoon) until half cooked. Then add 0.5 cups of water and 1 cup of apple juice. Stew our dish under the lid. We also add 0.5 teaspoon of salt, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 2 cloves and 2 g of cinnamon. 200 g of apples cut into pieces will give an unusual taste and aroma to the dish. So all the ingredients are added, we cook the dish until all the liquid has evaporated. Our cabbage goes well with roast goose, duck or game.
  4. Black bread casserole. Ingredients: 400 g of rye bread, 100 g of sugar, 500 g of apples, 2 g of cinnamon, 1 tablespoon of lemon peel, 100 g of butter and 300 g of sour cream. When preparing this dish, we successfully use stale bread. So, it needs to be grated and mixed with half the sugar, cinnamon and zest. Apples should be cut into slices and mixed with the remaining sugar. We grease the form with oil, lay out bread and apples in layers, while adding another piece of butter and sour cream to each layer. Cooking a casserole in the oven. Eat for health!
  5. Pancakes with carrots. First, prepare the batter with 3 eggs, 1 cup flour, 2 tea cups milk and a pinch of salt. Now we make the minced meat in this way: we rub the peeled carrots (400 g), add 2 teaspoons of sugar, 0.1 teaspoons of cinnamon and 0.5 tablespoons of lemon juice. We bake thin pancakes, spread the carrot filling on them, fold and fry on both sides.
  6. Cowberry jam. We will need: 1 kg of berries, 500 g of sugar, 10 g of cinnamon, 0.5 cups of water and 5 g of lemon zest. Let's start cooking. Pour lingonberries with boiling water, put in a colander. Put the berries in a saucepan, cover with sugar, add water, cinnamon and zest. Cook jam until done. Let cool, put in sterile jars and cork them, or better, cover with parchment paper and tie. This jam is perfect for fried meat, be it game or poultry, lamb, beef or veal.
  7. Carpet "Dietary". Take the following products: kefir (2 cups), wheat bran (50 g), oatmeal (1.5 cups), starch (3 tablespoons), cinnamon (2 teaspoons), sugar (0.5 cups ), eggs (2 pcs.). Well, let's get ready! First of all, you need to grind the "hercules" in a coffee grinder, then mix it with kefir and bran, add cinnamon and sugar, then add starch and yolks. But the proteins should be whipped, and the resulting protein foam should be carefully poured into the oatmeal mass. It should turn out the density of the dough as not liquid sour cream. Let's add some soda. Bake in the oven for 40 minutes at 200 degrees. Ready gingerbread can be smeared with jam or sour cream. This dish is both tasty and healthy, and will not spoil the figure.


Cinnamon is known all over the world as one of the most popular and most consumed spices. It is available in the kitchen of any good housewife. But there was a time when only the elite could use it, i.e. kings and emperors.

When the pyramids were excavated in Egypt, references to this most valuable seasoning were found, and the ancient Romans equated it with silver.

It is known that the best cinnamon comes to us from Sri Lanka. But in many other countries with a tropical climate, you can find a plant that gives this spice. Brazil, India, Egypt, Vietnam - these are not all the states that supply cinnamon.

Ceylon cinnamon and cassia differ not only in chemical composition, but also in appearance. The Chinese cinnamon tree has a red tint. It is much more economical to grow and produce such a spice than Ceylon, so there are more of it in supermarkets.

Ceylon Cinnamomum verum has been growing for a couple of years. Then it is cut off at the very root, and the resulting bark, or rather its thin layer inside, is used as a blank for making seasoning. In place of the cut shoots, new ones grow, about a year later. After some time, the bark dries up and begins to curl into tubes 1 m long. The spice is sold in pieces up to 10 cm or in powder form.

Very fond of this seasoning in the countries of the Caucasus. There it is added to soups, pilaf, meat dishes.

Europeans are also not far behind Caucasians in the use of cinnamon. It is worth mentioning here the French muffins and the Austrian Ridling muffin, which is enjoyed at Easter.

Watch the video about cinnamon:


No one has any doubts about the usefulness of cinnamon, so those housewives who do not have it in their kitchen arsenal should immediately go to the nearest supermarket and make up for this shortage. But when buying this wonderful spice, remember about Ceylon cinnamon and cassia, about their differences. The first has a genuine aroma and is many times more useful than the second.

Cinnamon [PRODUCT REDACTED] rich in vitamins and minerals such as: vitamin E - 15.5%, vitamin K - 26%, potassium - 17.2%, calcium - 100.2%, magnesium - 15%, iron - 46.2%, manganese - 873.3%, copper - 33.9%, zinc - 15.3%

Benefits of Cinnamon [PRODUCT REMOVED]

  • Vitamin E has antioxidant properties, is necessary for the functioning of the gonads, the heart muscle, is a universal stabilizer of cell membranes. With a deficiency of vitamin E, hemolysis of erythrocytes and neurological disorders are observed.
  • Vitamin K regulates blood clotting. A lack of vitamin K leads to an increase in blood clotting time, a reduced content of prothrombin in the blood.
  • Potassium is the main intracellular ion involved in the regulation of water, acid and electrolyte balance, is involved in the processes of nerve impulses, pressure regulation.
  • Calcium is the main component of our bones, acts as a regulator of the nervous system, is involved in muscle contraction. Calcium deficiency leads to demineralization of the spine, pelvic bones and lower extremities, increases the risk of osteoporosis.
  • Magnesium participates in energy metabolism, synthesis of proteins, nucleic acids, has a stabilizing effect on membranes, is necessary to maintain homeostasis of calcium, potassium and sodium. Lack of magnesium leads to hypomagnesemia, increased risk of developing hypertension, heart disease.
  • Iron is a part of proteins of various functions, including enzymes. Participates in the transport of electrons, oxygen, ensures the occurrence of redox reactions and activation of peroxidation. Insufficient intake leads to hypochromic anemia, myoglobin deficiency atony of skeletal muscles, increased fatigue, myocardiopathy, atrophic gastritis.
  • Manganese participates in the formation of bone and connective tissue, is part of the enzymes involved in the metabolism of amino acids, carbohydrates, catecholamines; necessary for the synthesis of cholesterol and nucleotides. Insufficient consumption is accompanied by growth retardation, disorders in the reproductive system, increased fragility of bone tissue, disorders of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism.
  • Copper is part of the enzymes that have redox activity and are involved in the metabolism of iron, stimulates the absorption of proteins and carbohydrates. Participates in the processes of providing tissues of the human body with oxygen. Deficiency is manifested by violations of the formation of the cardiovascular system and skeleton, the development of connective tissue dysplasia.
  • Zinc is part of more than 300 enzymes, is involved in the synthesis and breakdown of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, nucleic acids and in the regulation of the expression of a number of genes. Insufficient intake leads to anemia, secondary immunodeficiency, liver cirrhosis, sexual dysfunction, and fetal malformations. Recent studies have revealed the ability of high doses of zinc to disrupt the absorption of copper and thereby contribute to the development of anemia.
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Every housewife knows about the fragrant spice - cinnamon, which makes culinary dishes and drinks especially tasty. However, cinnamon is not only a fragrant spice in cooking, but also an effective remedy and a piquant ingredient in perfumes. In ancient times, because of this fragrant spice, wars were started, countries were ruined and enriched. Ancient people learned how to extract cinnamon at the dawn of the first civilizations. In many nations of the world, cinnamon takes pride of place in cooking, increasing appetite and giving a special aroma and taste to culinary masterpieces.

Story

Cinnamon was first mentioned in Chinese manuscripts about 5,000 years ago. In the references of Herodotus in the 5th century BC, in order to find the bark of the spice, one had to go through many obstacles. Arab merchants invented these stories to increase sales of the spice. That is why in Europe for a long time the spice was considered inaccessible, accessible only to the elite.

There are also references to the spice in the Bible. The Old Testament says that Moses took cinnamon with him. There is also mention of cinnamon in the ancient Indian treatise Ayurveda. It says that it is a sweet spice with a spicy taste. In ancient times, whole caravans were sent with this spice. In ancient Egypt, cinnamon was equated with gold. In the Middle Ages, the spice was used more as an aromatic spice. Venice was the main supplier of cinnamon to Europe, which purchased the spice from Alexandria. There are also mentions of cinnamon in the Russian healing book "Cool Helicopter".

Characteristic

Cinnamon is an evergreen tree of the Laurel family. The dried bark of trees is also called cinnamon. Since ancient times, two types of this spice have been distinguished: real cinnamon and Chinese cinnamon tree. A distinctive feature of real cinnamon is its dark brown color, rich aroma and pungent taste, as well as the fragility of the sticks. Cassia is light brown in color, less intense in taste, and in the form of sticks, it is hard to break. Cassia also contains a lot of coumarin, which is dangerous to health. In real cinnamon, these substances are contained in very small doses.

Real cinnamon is made in India and Ceylon from the bark of cinnamon trees. The very best stick-shaped cinnamon sticks are very thin (as thick as a piece of paper). Because of their thinness, the spice sticks are nested inside each other. The tree is grown for two years, and then cut to the root. Then many young shoots grow out of it, from which a thin bark is cut off. For sale, the sticks are cut into 5-10 cm in length. Local chefs add fragrant cinnamon leaves to soups instead of bay leaves. Ceylon cinnamon is considered the best. Today, the spice is grown in Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Brazil, India, Indonesia and other countries.

Chemical composition and nutritional value

The chemical composition of cinnamon includes cinnamon essential oil, tannins, resins, phenolic acids, vitamins and minerals. Ceylon cinnamon also contains the volatile compound eugenol, which gives the spice a pleasant and rich aroma. Cassia contains starch and coumarin. Coumarin in large doses is hazardous to health. However, in small amounts, it is useful and improves blood flow. The energy value of the spice is 247 kcal per 100 grams.

Nutritional value of cinnamon per 100 grams (approximately)
Nutrient Quantity Average rate per day for an adult
247 kcal 1684 kcal
3.99 g 76 g
1.24 g 60 g
27.49 g 211 g
53.1 g 20 g
10.58 g 2400 g
3.6 g
15 mcg 1.5 mg
Lutein 222 mcg
0.041 mg 1.8 mg
11 mg 500 mg
6 mcg 400 mcg
3.8 mg 90 mg
2.32 mg 15 mg
31.2 mcg 120 mcg
1.332 mg 20 mg
431 mg 2500 mg
1002 mg 1000 mg
60 mg 400 mg
10 mg 1300 mg
64 mg 800 mg
8.32 mg 18 mg
17.466 mg 2 mg
339 mcg 1000 mcg
3.1 mcg 55 mcg
1.83 mg 12 mg
0.011 g 0.9-3.7 g
0.044 g 4.7-16.8 g

Beneficial features

The healing properties of cinnamon have been known since ancient times. Modern research confirms that the use of this seasoning has a positive effect on the body, improves tone, strengthens the immune system and helps to overcome many diseases.

Ceylon cinnamon has a number of useful properties:

Modern medical research has confirmed the effective use of spices in the treatment. Half a teaspoon of spice a day regulates blood sugar levels and prevents development inflammatory processes in organism. Some experts argue that with the help of this spice you can fight. Cinnamon is widely used as an antiseptic. It effectively cleanses the choleretic system and liver, removes excess fluid and salt from the body.

For school-age children, cinnamon will be effective as an antiviral and antibacterial agent. Also spice increases concentration and strengthens eyesight.

For women, spice is indispensable during painful menstruation. It relieves pain, improves overall tone and removes irritability. In addition, regular use of the spice enhances sexuality.

In men, the use of cinnamon increases potency. The aroma of spices significantly enhances the sensitivity of erogenous zones and stimulates the function of the sexual glands.

For the elderly, the use of spices protects against heart attack, will reduce in the arteries and the formation of blood clots. The spice also normalizes blood pressure, improves memory and has a positive effect on insomnia and depression.

Cinnamon effectively helps with coughs and severe sore throats, as well as toothaches.

The spice helps to strengthen the body and protects against heart disease.

With the help of spices, you can effectively deal with bad breath. To do this, chew a small piece of cinnamon. Additionally, it is recommended to gargle in the morning with a solution of one teaspoon of honey and cinnamon.

The spice successfully helps with external and internal diseases. By adding her food, she prevents the growth of various bacteria, which has a positive effect on the work of the stomach. In addition, the spice has a significant effect on lowering the level of acidity, eliminates diarrhea and nausea.

Spice oil stimulates creativity and new ideas. The smell of cinnamon activates the cognitive function of memory, increases mindfulness and vigilance, and also eliminates blues and anxiety.

Contraindications

Spice in reasonable doses has a positive effect on the body. However, excessive use of the spice can lead to a breakdown, severe headaches and a depressed state. In addition, high doses of coumarin in cinnamon can damage the liver and kidneys. Given that Chinese cinnamon (cassia) contains a hundred times more coumarin than Ceylon cinnamon, doctors strongly recommend that when buying, specify where the spice came from.

The spice is contraindicated for the following categories of people:

  • small children up to three years;
  • pregnant women (affects uterine contraction, which can lead to premature birth);
  • breastfeeding women (affects the taste of breast milk);
  • people with poor blood clotting (blood thinning);
  • people suffering from peptic ulcers;
  • with high blood pressure and high temperature;
  • in chemotherapy of oncological diseases;
  • with individual intolerance to spices and allergic reactions to it.

Proper storage

The spice must be stored in a closed glass container away in a dry and dark place. This is to keep beneficial features ground spices for six months, sticks - for a year. For longer storage, it is recommended to store the spice in the refrigerator.

If the spice has lost its smell and freshness, then it has no more useful substances and is harmful to health.

It is recommended to buy ground spice in small quantities. When choosing a spice powder, you need to smell how stable its aroma is. To test cinnamon, you can take a solution and add it to a serving of powder. If the powder turns dark blue, then it is cassia, if there is no obvious change, then it is Ceylon cinnamon.

Treatment

Cinnamon can be used to cure many ailments. External use of the spice oil is popular in massages and rubbing. To prepare aroma oil, take 10 ml of vegetable oil and mix with 2-3 drops of cinnamon oil.

With weakness, delayed menstruation, impotence, colds, diarrhea and flu, a drink made from spice and herbal oil will be effective. For preparation, use 1-2 drops of oil and 1 teaspoon of honey, adding these ingredients to herbal tea. For inhalation of the upper respiratory tract, use a few drops of spice oil with hot water.

With flu or hypothermia, it is useful to drink a drink of hot wine and cinnamon, as well as hot water, honey, lemon juice, one clove and a pinch of spice. An excellent prevention of influenza is a drink of half a teaspoon of spice, a pinch of ground black pepper and honey. It is recommended to drink one glass every three hours. If the cold is initial, then it is recommended to drink a drink of cinnamon,. All ingredients should be brewed in equal doses of 1/3 teaspoon per cup of boiling water and drunk every hour. To get rid of a headache with a cold, prepare a gruel of spices and apply on the forehead for a certain time.

Scientists in Germany have conducted a number of studies that prove that cinnamon can eliminate some urinary tract infections.

With flatulence, 1 tablespoon of cinnamon tincture effectively helps half an hour after eating.

weight loss

The spice is successfully used for weight loss.

There are many ways to lose weight with this spice. Using the spice, you can lose up to 2 kg of excess weight per week. Due to its ability to increase metabolism, excess fats are effectively burned in the body. Food in the body begins to be processed faster and does not remain in the body in the form of body fat. In addition, the spice regulates blood levels and affects the body's natural self-purification processes. This leads to getting rid of toxins, excess fluid and accumulated waste in the body. Also, the smell of cinnamon reduces appetite. As a result, the spice leads not only to weight loss, but also to cleansing the body of harmful substances.

The most popular drink for weight loss is cinnamon. To prepare it, you need 1.5 liters of kefir and 1 teaspoon of spices. Mix the ingredients and put in the refrigerator. Then during the day drink one glass.

An ideal combination for weight loss is also cinnamon and ginger. To prepare such a fragrant kefir cocktail with cinnamon and ginger, you need to mix one glass of low-fat kefir, half a teaspoon of spice and ginger, and add a pinch of ground red pepper. Recommended to drink before bed.

To cleanse the body and remove the stomach, use a mixture of honey and cinnamon. For a month of taking the mixture, you can lose up to 7 kg of excess weight.

Cooking recipes

In cooking, cinnamon is used in baked goods, fruit desserts, puddings, and drinks.

Eastern drink with cinnamon

1-2 tablespoons of spices are poured with a glass of boiling water and infused for about 5-7 minutes. Then filter and add 1-2 tablespoons of condensed.

Wine with cinnamon

Add 1-2 spice sticks to the wine and heat over low heat. Drink warm.

Cinnamon croutons

Chopped toast on one side. Put butter on the unfried side and sprinkle with a mixture of spices and sugar and fry until golden brown.

Cosmetic procedures

The spice is widely used in cosmetic procedures. It is actively used to give hair a healthy shine and elasticity. To get shiny and lush hair, make a mask of honey and olive oil. To prepare it, take 1 teaspoon of spice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil and honey. The mixture is applied to wet hair for 45 minutes, then washed off with shampoo and rinsed with water. This mask helps with hair loss.

Calorie content and composition of ground cinnamon. What benefits can a delicious spice bring to the body. Why some people are better off not adding it to their food. The use of spices in cooking.

The content of the article:

Ground cinnamon is the dried and powdered inner bark of trees of the Cinnamon genus. This is the oldest spice, the birthplace of which is not clearly defined. Most sources agree that it was first produced in Sri Lanka (Ceylon). It is noteworthy that today it is Ceylon cinnamon that is considered the best, it has a noble aroma and a delicate sweetish, but burning taste. The second most popular Chinese cinnamon, it is valued less because it has a sharper taste. By the way, the Celestial Empire is another contender for the title of homeland of the spice. However, at the moment it is not so important where the spice came from, the main thing is that its value is very high and it is understood all over the world. Thanks to its unique taste and amazing aroma, cinnamon has taken its rightful place in cooking, and a large number of useful components that make up the spice have made it indispensable for medicinal purposes and cosmetology.

Composition and calorie content of ground cinnamon


Cinnamon is a medium-calorie food, it is rich in carbohydrates and dietary fiber, it contains enough protein and a small amount of fat. The exact parameters of the energy value are as follows.

Caloric content of ground cinnamon - 247 kcal per 100 g of product, of which:

  • Proteins - 3.99 g;
  • Fats - 1.24 g;
  • Carbohydrates - 27.49 g;
  • Dietary fiber - 53.1 g;
  • Water - 10.58 g;
  • Ash - 3.6 g.
Among other things, the spice “hides” a lot of vitamins, micro and macro elements, essential amino acids.

Macronutrients per 100 g:

  • Potassium - 431 mg;
  • Calcium - 1002 mg;
  • Magnesium - 60 mg;
  • Sodium - 10 mg;
  • Phosphorus - 64 mg.
Trace elements per 100 g:
  • Iron - 8.32 mg;
  • Manganese - 17.466 mg;
  • Copper - 339 mg;
  • Selenium - 3.1 mg;
  • Zinc - 1.83 mg.
Vitamins per 100 g:
  • Vitamin A, RE - 15 mcg;
  • Alpha carotene - 1 mcg;
  • Beta carotene - 0.112 mg;
  • Beta cryptoxanthin - 129 mcg;
  • Lycopene - 15 mcg;
  • Lutein + Zeaxanthin - 222 mcg;
  • Vitamin B1 - 0.022 mg;
  • Vitamin B2 - 0.041 mg;
  • Vitamin B4 - 11 mg;
  • Vitamin B5 - 0.358 mg;
  • Vitamin B6 - 0.158 mg;
  • Vitamin B9 - 6 mcg;
  • Vitamin C - 3.8 mg;
  • Vitamin E - 2.32 mg;
  • Vitamin K - 31.2 mcg;
  • Vitamin PP, NE - 1.332 mg;
  • Betaine - 3.9 mg.
Essential amino acids per 100 g:
  • Arginine - 0.166 g;
  • Valine - 0.224 g;
  • Histidine - 0.117 g;
  • Isoleucine - 0.146 g;
  • Leucine - 0.253 g;
  • Lysine - 0.243 g;
  • Methionine - 0.078 g;
  • Threonine - 0.136 g;
  • Tryptophan - 0.049 g;
  • Phenylalanine - 0.146 g.
Fatty acids per 100 g:
  • Omega-3 - 0.011 g;
  • Omega-6 - 0.044 g;
  • Saturated - 0.345 g;
  • Monounsaturated - 0.246 g;
  • Polyunsaturated - 0.068 g.
Ground cinnamon also contains digestible carbohydrates in the form of mono- and disaccharides (sugars) - in 100 grams they are 2.17 g. In addition, the spice contains essential oils and tannins.

Useful properties of ground cinnamon


O healing properties cinnamon has been known since ancient times. Mentions about the use of spices as a component of medicines are found in the Old Testament, the Indian treatise "Ayurveda", the records of ancient Chinese healers. Don't forget about medicinal properties spices in the Middle Ages, as evidenced, for example, by the presence of cinnamon in the Russian medical book "Cool Vertograd". And even modern medicine treats spices with deep respect - both folk and traditional.

So, the benefits of ground cinnamon are determined mainly by the following effects:

  1. Normalization of the digestive system. Regular use of spices allows you to normalize the work of the gastrointestinal tract. The acceleration of metabolism is the most important factor that should make everyone who wants to lose weight fall in love with this spice. The high content of dietary fiber in its composition has a positive effect on intestinal motility, helps the body absorb food more efficiently and quickly remove harmful substances from it. Also, the spice helps to improve the stool, and in case of frequent constipation, and, on the contrary, with diarrhea, as well as get rid of flatulence.
  2. Prevention of diabetes. As we said above, cinnamon is very effective in the fight against diabetes. This fact has been scientifically proven. The composition of the spice contains a polyphenol that helps the body to better absorb insulin. So diabetics just need to make the spice part of their diet.
  3. Beneficial effect on the nervous system. Here, cinnamon has a complex effect: it has a positive effect on concentration, activates brain activity, improves memory, helps relieve fatigue, fights nervous tension and even insomnia.
  4. Improving the condition of the female reproductive system. By adding cinnamon to food, you can achieve the normalization of the menstrual cycle, reduce its pain, and relieve the irritability inherent in premenstrual syndrome. Also, the spice increases the sensitivity of erogenous zones, activates the sex glands, so that a woman feels more sexual and desirable. By the way, the effect of stimulation of the sex glands also applies to men and helps to improve the quality of potency.
  5. Prevention of diseases of the cardiovascular system. Cinnamon reduces not only the level of sugar, but also cholesterol in the blood, thus preventing the formation of blood clots. In addition, with regular use of spices in food, pressure normalizes, the heart muscle begins to work more efficiently.
  6. Strengthening the immune system. The spice, due to the high content of vitamins in its composition, perfectly increases the overall tone of the body, mobilizes immune forces, which in turn protects against viruses of one nature or another.
  7. Treatment of respiratory diseases. Eating cinnamon for colds significantly improves the patient's condition: the spice relieves headaches, stimulates sweating, facilitates breathing and relieves swelling of the nasal mucosa. The spice works most effectively in this direction if you add it to any warm drink - tea, compote, etc.
  8. Prevention of inflammation. Cinnamon effectively fights pathogenic flora, which in turn is an excellent prevention of the development of inflammation of a particular nature. In addition, the spice is an effective natural antioxidant, which means that it also prevents the early aging of the body and fights the development of tumors. Today, large-scale research is underway to study the anti-cancer properties of cinnamon, and perhaps soon official preparations based on the spice will appear.
  9. Improved skin condition. Essential oils, which are part of cinnamon, have a beneficial effect on the condition of the skin, nourishing, cleansing and rejuvenating it.
  10. Prevention of diseases of the liver, kidneys and gallbladder. Cinnamon has a pronounced bile and diuretic effect, and therefore prevents the stagnation of bile and unnecessary fluid in the body, prevents the formation of stones.
In ancient times, the spice was especially valued for its antiseptic properties. Cinnamon powder was used to treat wounds to decontaminate damaged tissues, prevent inflammation and prevent infection from entering the bloodstream. Of course, today hardly anyone resorts to this recipe, because there are various pharmaceutical preparations for disinfecting wounds. However, if you get hurt, and there is no modern antiseptic at hand, use the natural one, which, for sure, can be found in your kitchen.

Harm and contraindications to ground cinnamon


Cinnamon, as you can see, exclusively useful product However, not all people are destined to experience the beneficial effects of the spice. The fact is that in the presence of certain diseases, this spice is contraindicated.

So, who should limit the use of cinnamon:

  • People suffering from diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and cardiovascular system, including hypertensive patients;
  • Pregnant women - cinnamon can provoke uterine contractions and, as a result, miscarriage;
  • Allergy sufferers - spice causes unpleasant symptoms of a particular nature with individual intolerance to the components.
With caution, spice should also be added to food for those who have blood clotting disorders or diseases that are manifested by bleeding, since cinnamon thins the blood.

In the presence of chronic diseases that require a strict diet, it is also worth consulting with your doctor before adding spice to your diet.

And, of course, it should be borne in mind that the abuse of spice can lead to negative consequences. With its excessive use, headache, weakness, absent-mindedness, etc. are observed.

Cinnamon contains a small amount of a harmful substance - coumarin, which negatively affects the liver. In Ceylon spice it is less than in Chinese. However, anyway, for this reason, it is better not to give food with cinnamon of any kind to young children. For adults, if the spice is not abused, no negative effect will be observed. Unfortunately, in our country, Ceylon cinnamon is a rarity on the supermarket shelf, and if it does appear on it, it costs much more than Chinese. However, saving on your health is not worth it, and if you have the opportunity to buy a spice straight from Sri Lanka, do not miss the moment.

Recipes with ground cinnamon


Cinnamon is loved all over the world, and even in Russian cuisines, where spices are not used very actively, it has a place. Unique alluring aroma, sweet-tart taste - the spice is in perfect harmony with pastries and other confectionery. However, it also finds its application in savory dishes; in Asia, the spice is actively used in the preparation of meat and poultry. Cinnamon is a component of the famous spicy mixtures - curry and garam masala. It is added to marinades when preserving mushrooms and vegetables. Cinnamon in drinks is a different story, the spice “sounds” especially good in coffee made with milk. Also, the spice goes well with sweet cereals and cottage cheese dishes.

In general, the use of ground cinnamon in recipes is a great field for imagination. However, if you want to cook one of the signature dishes, choose something from the list below:

  1. Cinnabon classic buns. Mix slightly warmed milk (200 ml) and dry yeast (standard sachet). Pour in eggs beaten in a separate container (2 pieces), add sugar (90 grams), vanilla sugar (15 grams), softened butter (100 grams) - it is important that it is softened, not melted and liquid. If you forgot to take it out of the refrigerator in advance, use the microwave. Now salt the dough (0.5 teaspoon) and begin to slowly introduce flour (4 cups), first stir with a spoon, then begin to knead the dough with your hands. Sometimes you need less flour, sometimes more, but do not overdo it, otherwise the buns will turn out tough. Cover the prepared dough with a towel and place in a warm place for 40-50 minutes. In the meantime, make the glaze: mix cream cheese (200 grams), softened butter (30 grams), powdered sugar (300 grams). Roll out the dough into a layer 3-5 mm thick, grease with melted butter (50 grams), generously sprinkle with sugar (150-200 grams) and cinnamon (6 tablespoons). Twist the dough into a tight roll, cut into pieces and form a “rose” from each. Send the buns to the oven for half an hour, the temperature is 160 degrees. Drizzle hot buns with icing.
  2. Maghreb tomato soup. Finely chop the red onion (1 piece), fry it in olive or vegetable oil in a saucepan for 3-5 minutes. Add finely grated ginger root (20 grams), zira (1/4 teaspoon), cinnamon (1/4 teaspoon). Fry for a couple more minutes, a strong aroma of spices should soar in the air, but make sure that nothing burns. Finely chop the tomatoes (1 kg) - ideally they should be pre-peeled and seeds - and add them to the spicy onions. Then pour in chicken broth (1 liter) or any other, just water will do. Add honey (1 teaspoon), finely chopped parsley (small bunch), salt and pepper to taste. Simmer the soup over low heat for 5-7 minutes. This dish is usually served cold, but no one forbids eating the soup warm. Just before serving, be sure to add a tablespoon of lemon juice and some fresh herbs.
  3. Chicken with saffron and nuts. Divide the legs (2 kg) into thighs and drumsticks, salt and pepper. Pour boiling water over saffron (50 grams), after 2-3 minutes add ginger root, grated on a fine grater (30 grams). Prepare the marinade: pour meat with spicy infusion, add lemon juice (from 2 lemons), olive oil (100 ml) - can be replaced with vegetable oil, cinnamon (1 tablespoon) and paprika (1 tablespoon), as well as red onion (2 pieces). Mix thoroughly. Marinate the meat for a minimum of 20 minutes, a maximum of a day. Put the chicken along with the marinade on a baking sheet, bake for 40 minutes at a temperature of 200 degrees. Pound the pistachios (50 grams) in a mortar, remove the meat from the oven and sprinkle it with chopped nuts, send it back for another 5 minutes. Chicken is best served with fresh herbs and rice.
  4. french toast. Cut an apple (1 piece) into strips. Melt the butter (20 grams) in a saucepan and transfer the chopped fruit into it. Add sugar (2 teaspoons), cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon), simmer until the apples are soft. Beat the egg (2 pieces), dip slices of white bread in it (4 pieces) and fry on both sides in the same pan in which the apples were stewed. Spread the spicy sweet apple filling over the toasted toasts.
  5. Festive coffee. In a saucepan, mix sugar (100 grams), cinnamon (1/4 teaspoon), cocoa (1/4 teaspoon), pour water (70 ml). Bring to a boil and cook for a minute. Add the resulting aromatic mixture to coffee brewed according to your favorite recipe - select the proportions to your taste. Garnish each cup of coffee with whipped cream.
Soups, hot dishes, desserts, drinks - cinnamon is ready to transform the taste of any dish. However, it is not necessary to prepare sophisticated dishes; you can add spice to your morning porridge or coffee to taste. And fans of a healthy diet can add new notes to smoothies and fruit salads with the help of this spice. In general, no one limits your imagination. Just remember that, as we said above, you should not abuse it.


The spice is obtained in a very interesting way. The cinnamon tree is grown for two years, then it is cut down and ... thrown away. Cinnamon will be made from young shoots that will appear on the stump remaining after the felling next year.

The spice is made only from the inner layer of the bark, but recently on the shelves of supermarkets you can find a very cheap so-called "Indonesian cinnamon" - the outer layer of the bark is also used for its preparation. We do not recommend buying such a spice, since the percentage of the aforementioned harmful coumarin is very high in it.

Cinnamon is considered one of the oldest spices known to the world and was highly valued in antiquity. In ancient China, spice in the truest sense of the word was worth its weight in gold. For one gram of spice they gave a gram of gold. Fortunately, today it is more accessible. Of course, only the rich could afford the spice. The most noble people not only ate cinnamon, but also used it to flavor the house.

For a long time, only the Arabs traded spices, while they tried in every possible way to discourage other peoples from the desire to extract spices on their own, composing different myths. At first, the merchants said that she had to be taken away from the claws of terrible monsters. When Aristotle's student Theophrastus discovered that cinnamon was made from the bark of trees, the stories changed. Now the Arabs convinced that trees grow in forests, where poisonous snakes and insects are everywhere, the bites of which are deadly.

In 1505, the European navigator Lorenzo de Alma found himself in Ceylon, where he discovered impressive plantations of cinnamon trees. This fact was the reason why Sri Lanka fell into colonial slavery.

Cinnamon used to be used not only in cooking, medicine and cosmetology, but also in mystical rites. With its help, they summoned spirits, cleansed the mind and soul. Also, the spice was added to amulets that attracted money, health and love to the owners.

Today, at traditional tea parties held by prestigious universities (Oxford and Cambridge), one of the signature treats is cinnamon crackers.

Watch the video about cinnamon:


Cinnamon is a unique spice, perhaps the only widely known spice with a sweet-spicy taste. However, its value lies not only in taste. The spice is extremely useful and helps to fight really serious diseases. However, one must not forget about contraindications and do not abuse cinnamon.