There are so many components that contribute to a healthy diet—but have you ever considered the significant role that spices can play? As it turns out, there are so many fantastic, tasty spices that can do wonders for your health, whether that’s boosting your metabolism, lowering inflammation, or sharpening your memory. And cinnamon is one delicious option that can offer so many benefits.
In a recent TikTok video shared by Ilana Muhlstein, a nutritionist and content creator (a.k.a. @nutritionbabe), she shared one simple, tasty breakfast option while emphasizing the benefits of cinnamon for blood sugar. Muhlstein’s breakfast creation not only offers great flavor but also packs a nutritional punch with whole-grain waffles, low-sugar vanilla Greek yogurt, cocoa nibs, and our favorite star of the show: cinnamon.
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Healthy Breakfast Breakdown
In her video, Muhlstein combines so many tasty ingredients for a nutritious breakfast. While whole-grain waffles offer fiber-filled carbohydrates, low-sugar vanilla Greek yogurt provides a protein boost. Cocoa nibs contribute antioxidants and fiber, and blueberries, referred to as “brain berries,” add natural sweetness and essential nutrients. But what we really want to focus on is her use of cinnamon, which goes beyond great flavor–it’s also one more conscious choice for enhancing the nutritional profile of her breakfast.
In her words, “I love [cinnamon] on everything and it’s great for blood sugar.” Indeed, this seemingly simple spice carries a host of health benefits, particularly in its ability to regulate blood sugar levels. Below, we’ll dive into a few of the ways it can do that.
How Cinnamon Affects Blood Sugar
- Insulin Sensitivity: Cinnamon has been studied for its potential to improve insulin sensitivity. Insulin is a hormone crucial for regulating blood sugar, and increased sensitivity means the body can use insulin more effectively, helping to keep blood sugar levels stable.
- Delaying Carbohydrate Absorption: Cinnamon may slow down the absorption of carbohydrates in the digestive tract. This can contribute to preventing rapid spikes in blood sugar after meals, providing a more gradual release of energy.
- Lowering Fasting Blood Sugar: Some studies suggest that cinnamon may help lower fasting blood sugar levels, making it a valuable addition to the diet for those looking to manage their blood sugar.
Incorporating Cinnamon into Your Diet
Considering the potential benefits of cinnamon, it's a versatile spice that can be easily incorporated into various dishes. Sprinkling cinnamon on oatmeal (also packed with benefits!), yogurt, or using it in baking are just a few ways to enjoy its flavor while supporting overall health.
Ultimately, adding more cinnamon to your diet is one promising way to foster a positive impact on blood sugar. As we follow the lead of nutrition experts like Muhlstein, it's clear that making mindful choices in our food selections can contribute to both flavor satisfaction and overall well-being. So, the next time you reach for a sprinkle of cinnamon, know that you're not just enhancing the taste–you're giving your body a nutrient-packed boost.
READ MORE: A Nutritionist Tells Us How To Build A Perfect Weight Loss Meal, Step By Step
