Cinnamon Tea: A Warming Drink with Surprising Health Benefits
Cinnamon tea is a comforting, flavorful drink with many surprising health benefits. It is an easy brew based on steeping cinnamon sticks or ground cinnamon in boiling water. This kind of tea has existed for many centuries, as a means through which a number of health conditions could be treated naturally. Whether it be digestion, regulating blood sugar, or even inflammation, it is said that cinnamon tea covers them all.
Probably the most astonishing benefit of cinnamon tea is its propensity to regulate blood sugar levels. Cinnamon contains compounds that may raise insulin sensitivity and, thus, is an ideal beverage for those who want to stabilize their blood sugar levels. Consuming cinnamon tea habitually can also prohibit episodes of spiking and crashing of blood sugar, especially right after meals.
It is also good for digestion, as it generally irritates the digestive system, hence making the digestion process much smoother. If you are feeling bloated, indigestive, or nauseous, a warm cup of cinnamon tea can help alleviate the discomfort. The antimicrobial properties in the tea prevent the growth of harmful bacteria in your gut and keep your digestive system healthy.
Aside from its digestive benefits, it is also a very good anti-inflammatory drink. Chronic inflammation is considered the starting point of many diseases, which can range from simple arthritis to heart diseases. The antioxidants in cinnamon decrease the amount of inflammation present within the body, protecting the cells from any potential damage that could lead to an increased risk of chronic diseases.
Another benefit of the consumption of cinnamon tea involves its boosting action on metabolism. Cinnamon basically possesses thermogenic properties: raising, to a slight extent, your body temperature and increasing calorie burning. While this isn’t the magic solution for losing weight, it can at least support your metabolism when taken with a healthy diet and workout.
Cinnamon tea has antioxidants in good amounts, which are useful in the termination of free radicals within the body. Such antioxidants support the slowing down of the aging process, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and offer general well-being. Being naturally free from caffeine further makes it a great choice for evening drinks that will not tamper with one’s sleep.
To make cinnamon tea, steep a cinnamon stick or a teaspoon of powdered cinnamon in hot water for about 10 to 15 minutes. Add honey or lemon to enhance its taste and health benefits.