What You Need to Know
Just like with any dietary supplement product, when you are looking to use cinnamon, you should read the label carefully. Make sure that the product is third-party tested or laboratory-tested to ensure purity and potency of the product.
Also, be sure that you are not allergic to cinnamon or any of its ingredients to ensure your safety. You should also make sure that the manufacturer’s contact information such as phone number and address are clearly on the label as it’s important that if you have questions or concerns about the product, then you can talk to someone in the company about it. Furthermore, be sure that the expiration date on the label is beyond the date that you will be needing to take the supplement.
Types
There are two major types of cinnamon known as Ceylon and Cassia, of which the latter is most commonly used and less expensive. Ceylon is often referred to as “true” cinnamon, and is thought of as higher quality, and has a milder taste than Cassia cinnamon.
There is not enough data to confirm a safe dosage of cinnamon, however, due to recent research, doses of cinnamon between 1 to 3 grams daily is considered safe. Experts suggest that children between 13 years to 18 years old should only take 1 gram daily of cinnamon supplements and for no more than three months.
Benefits
There are not enough studies to support the use of cinnamon in weight loss or metabolic health, but it may reduce blood fats, glucose, and blood pressure. However, some studies do show more clearly that this spice may reduce pain, support digestive health, and improve wound healing. Research shows that cinnamon contains nutrients like manganese, fiber, iron, and calcium as well as antioxidant polyphenols that may provide its health benefits.
Cons
Cinnamon is generally safe for most people as long as people don’t take more than the suggested dose. However, those that are allergic to cinnamon, have liver disease, as well as those who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take cinnamon supplements. Also, cinnamon exposure to the skin may cause irritation or allergic reactions in some people. Finally, there is not enough evidence on long-term use of cinnamon supplements, therefore, until further studies prove long-term safety, such supplements should not be taken for more than four months at a time.
Anything else a shopper should know to decide
When you’re looking to purchase cinnamon, be sure you choose a brand that you can trust. You can look for National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) on the label. Also, NSF registers products with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)-certified status to reveal a trusted brand. GMP status ensures that what is listed on the label is what is in the package you purchase.
Why Would You Take A Cinnamon Supplement?
If you have an inflammatory condition like type 2 diabetes or heart disease, then you may benefit from a cinnamon dietary supplement. It can help reduce inflammation in the body that can place stress on many aspects of health. However, such a supplement should merely be a secondary supplement to prescribed medicines. Also, be sure to talk with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
