If you think of cinnamon, you probably think of the tasty spice you add to breakfast foods, baked goods, and savoury side dishes. But the truth is that cinnamon isn’t just a delicious spice. It’s also a powerful food that helps you fight disease. That’s why people around the globe have used it for medicinal purposes for thousands of years.

The difference between Ceylon cinnamon and Cassia cinnamon

It’s important to keep in mind that not all types of cinnamon provide the same benefit. The type of cinnamon that you’re probably most familiar with is Cassia cinnamon. It’s native to China, and you can find it in most grocery stores. Cassia cinnamon is lower in quality and less expensive than Ceylon cinnamon. Also called “true cinnamon,” Ceylon cinnamon is native to Sri Lanka.

Here are 5 reasons why you should add Ceylon cinnamon to your diet:

1. Packed with antioxidants

Ceylon cinnamon isn’t just any other spice. Instead, cinnamon contains more antioxidants than most foods, spices, and herbs. For this reason, it reduces oxidative stress and slows aging. Cinnamon may also protect the body from tumour growth and DNA damage.

2. Decreases inflammation

Ceylon cinnamon has powerful anti-inflammatory effects because of its high antioxidant concentration. Researchers have found, for example, that cinnamon can decrease pain by reducing muscle soreness.

3. Regulates blood sugar

Scientists have also uncovered evidence that cinnamon can help to stabilize blood sugar levels. Indeed, when conducting a review of 16 studies, researchers found that Ceylon cinnamon may help to manage diabetes symptoms. In particular, it may raise sensitivity to insulin and regulate blood sugar levels.

4. Improves heart health

In addition, Ceylon cinnamon may help you reduce your risk of developing heart disease. Specifically, researchers have found that cinnamon can lower high blood pressure and high triglyceride levels. It also decreases LDL cholesterol while maintaining HDL cholesterol levels.

5. Boosts brain health

Aside from reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and stabilizing blood sugar, Ceylon cinnamon may lower your chances of developing neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease. In particular, scientists have found that cinnamon contains compounds that reduce the accumulation of tau in the brain. Tau is a protein that is commonly found in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s disease.

Use Ceylon cinnamon to improve your health

Cinnamon isn’t just a key ingredient in sugary treats. Thanks to its health-boosting properties, it can also help you fight disease. Loaded with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, it can lower your risk of heart disease, regulate your blood sugar, and protect your brain.