Cinnamon: useful properties and contraindications. Dishes with cinnamon

2024 Author: Isabella Gilson | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 03:14

What best emphasizes the warmth of the hearth? Of course, warm and fragrant buns. And the perfect spice for them is cinnamon. It is impossible to indifferently pass by the baking to which it is added. But is it just for the smell that people began to use this spice? Today we consider the beneficial properties of cinnamon.

What is

Most people know what this brown powder looks and smells like. It is sold packaged in small bags. In fact, these are not outlandish fruits, but simply the bark of a tropical plant. In the markets of eastern countries, it can be purchased in one piece. The bark in this case resembles chocolate tubes and looks very appetizing. In fact, under the same name, we can meet several types of ground bark. There are at least two for sale:

• powder extracted from Ceylon cinnamon bark;
• powder from the bark of a tree called cassia.

The he alth benefits of cinnamon vary greatly depending on what you buy. They are the brightestmanifested when using fresh Ceylon cinnamon bark. It is sharper in taste and has a stronger effect. Cassia in its composition has a lot of coumarin, which in large quantities can harm the body. But hardly anyone eats cinnamon with spoons, so this problem does not arise sharply.

By the way, in order to more accurately assess the beneficial properties of cinnamon, you can check its origin. To do this, drop a little iodine on the purchased powder. Ceylon will turn bluish, and cassia will acquire a bright blue color. If you can buy cinnamon sticks, use it. As needed, you will grind it on a special grater.

Distribution history

The warming spice was first discovered in Egypt and China. The beneficial properties of cinnamon began to be studied by healers, culinary specialists and ministers of divine cults. The rubbed bark was used by the priests. In Chinese chronicles, the spice is mentioned as a component of medicines. And in other sources, it is found as an air freshener and the first perfume.

Cinnamon can be called a fatal spice, because huge money was paid for it and wars were waged. In value, it was equal to gold, so the possession of fragrant bark was the prerogative of the richest people. All this was, but passed. Today, fragrant spice is available to everyone. Of course, ground cinnamon is most often found in stores, but it can also be of very good quality.

Composition

The magical aroma of brown powder is the merit of essential oils. In turn, they are beneficialaffect the work of the whole organism as a whole, preserving its youth and beauty. Seasoning is also introduced into the composition of various cosmetic preparations. Of course, ground cinnamon manages to lose some of the essential oils during storage, but still remains useful. In addition, the composition of spices includes:

1. Tannins.
2. Polyphenol, i.e. analogue of insulin.
3. Eugenol is a natural antiseptic.

Useful properties

The composition of the fragrant spice is well studied today. Doctors and nutritionists can answer the question of what are the he alth benefits of cinnamon. First of all, its antioxidant properties are noted. Regular use of this spice allows you to remove toxins from the body, normalize cholesterol. In eastern countries, the spice is used as an antibacterial agent. It can be sprinkled on wounds to prevent festering.

Cinnamon sticks have long been known to help fight the common cold. Below we will consider the options for preparing medicinal drinks. Dried bark also has a beneficial effect on the stomach, relieves bloating and stimulates digestion. It is due to this that warm spice is in demand among those who want to lose weight. In general, cinnamon has a complex effect on the entire body. Therefore, do not deny yourself the pleasure and regularly use it in the kitchen. Experienced chefs know that even if the pastry is not too successful, cinnamon will brighten up the flaws.

You need to be careful

Before you start adding it to all drinks and dishes indiscriminately,it is necessary to get acquainted with contraindications. Cinnamon should not be consumed in large quantities. Especially often such a mistake is made by girls who dream of losing weight as soon as possible. There are a few things to know:

• Excessive use of the spice causes sediment to build up in our internal, natural filters. This is especially harmful for children under 3 years old.
• The spice is completely contraindicated for pregnant women, as it can provoke disturbances in the development of the fetus.
• The use of creams containing tropical spices can lead to inflammation.
• If there is a violation of the cardiovascular system or high blood pressure, it is forbidden to use cinnamon.

Of course, we are not talking about one cinnamon roll. It is worth remembering about contraindications in cases where a person clearly abuses it.

Cinnamon for slimness

Today, in pharmacies, you can find a lot of cinnamon-based supplements, the manufacturers of which promise to get rid of excess weight as soon as possible. These are fictions, since cinnamon itself does not contribute to the loss of extra pounds. Yes, it activates all metabolic processes in cells and removes toxins, free radicals and other “garbage” from them. It is thanks to the cleansing that the metabolism is normalized, which contributes to the burning of fats.

There is one more important property. Glucose helps to reduce the amount of glucose in the blood. It is the excess sugar that prevents the body from coping with excess sugar.kilograms. In order to part with them faster, you need to prepare a special fat-burning drink with cinnamon. Mix a teaspoon of powder with a glass of boiling water. You can add some honey. It is recommended to drink it three times a day. And, of course, you should avoid unhe althy foods and stick to a rational diet.

Cinnamon for diabetes

I want to say right away that the treatment of this formidable disease should take place exclusively under the supervision of the attending physician. Today there is a fairly large selection of special medicines that can effectively reduce blood glucose levels. But they have a number of contraindications and often give complications to the kidneys and liver, intestines and heart. Therefore, the best option is to use folk remedies, which include cinnamon.

One of the important components is phenol. It is responsible for the process of lowering blood glucose, which is important in violation of the endocrine system. Cinnamon in diabetes allows you to normalize metabolism. Practice shows that if you eat dishes with aromatic spices every day for a month, then the level of glucose in the blood decreases by about 30%. Do not forget about the need to consult with your doctor. The possible harm of cinnamon must be taken into account when taking it for a long time.

Cinnamon starts to take a course of about 1 g per day. It's about a quarter of a teaspoon. Gradually, this rate is brought to 6 g, that is, a teaspoon with a slide. Desirabledistribute this portion throughout the day, adding to tea, pastries and main dishes.

For the strong half of humanity

Cinnamon sticks are loved not only by beautiful ladies. In addition to the general beneficial properties, this spice also has specific ones. So, it is considered very useful for men. Cinnamon powder is able to destroy pathogenic microorganisms that live in the digestive, reproductive and urinary systems. Healers claim that regular use of spicy spices can prevent the development of such formidable diseases as cystitis and urethritis, prostatitis. In addition, it is the strongest aphrodisiac, which is able to tone up and increase libido. Despite the fact that it is not a medicine, cinnamon in some cases can prevent a disease or adjust its treatment at an early stage of development.

Tips

There is nothing in the world that can compare with the aroma of cinnamon powder. The taste of cinnamon is slightly tart and burning, it goes well with sweets and meat. There are certain rules that explain how to properly use this spice.

1. Drink green tea. In the morning it is very useful to drink a cup of green tea with the addition of a spoonful of cinnamon. You can add some quality honey.
2. Fruit salads. It is difficult to find another spice that complements desserts just as well. For an excellent taste, you can cut apples and quinces, pears and sprinkle them with cinnamon powder.
3. Cold fruit soups. The ingredients are fresh or driedfruit. At the end of cooking, ginger and cinnamon are added. This is a great option for breakfast or a snack.

It is best to use cinnamon sticks and rub them yourself before use. Then the spice will retain all the beneficial properties and will affect the body as efficiently as possible.

The taste of childhood

If you are a supporter of a he althy diet, then you are probably looking for recipes for the most he althy dishes. Baking with cinnamon is exactly what you need to pay attention to. A fragrant spice will help to quickly process the substances entering the body so that the eaten delicacy does not affect the state of your figure. And the easiest thing to make is an apple pie.

Try making cinnamon charlotte. It will definitely please all family members. At the same time, such a dessert is prepared quickly and easily. Cinnamon perfectly complements the taste of apples and gives the pie a fantastic flavor. You will need:

• Apple - 3 pieces
• Flour - 3 cups.
• Sugar - 1.5 cups.
• Egg - 5 pcs
• Baking powder, powdered sugar and cinnamon - 1 teaspoon each.

First, cut the apples and sprinkle them with cinnamon. Mix all other ingredients. Put the apples in the form and fill the form with dough. Charlotte with cinnamon is cooked for 30 minutes at a temperature of 180 degrees. It turns out a very tasty, fragrant, sweet dish.

Cinnamon Pie

If you are on a diet, but really want something sweet, then cook thiswonderful pie. Cinnamon pastries are so flavorful that the whole family is guaranteed to join you. This is a great option to treat the kids as the pie does not contain any harmful ingredients. You will need:

• kefir - 2 cups (low fat);
• eggs - 2 pieces;
• oatmeal - 1.5 cups;
• bran - half a glass;
• powdered sugar - 2 tablespoons;
• cinnamon - half tablespoon;
• prunes and dried apricots 150 grams each.

Oatmeal should be ground in a blender. Mix with the rest of the ingredients (the eggs need to be beaten separately). Cover a baking sheet with parchment paper, pour the dough on it and send it to the oven for 15 minutes at 180 degrees. In the meantime, grind dried apricots and prunes separately into a puree. Divide the cake into three strips and each of them into four more parts. Now we grease every second with prunes and connect in pairs. And top with a layer of sunny dried apricots.

Delicious Maslenitsa

What could be better than hot pancakes? Dip in sour cream and immediately into the mouth. You can easily answer: only cinnamon pancakes can be better. Fantastic aroma will not leave anyone indifferent. And you can put caramelized apples in the filling. Basically, any basic recipe will work, just add some cinnamon to it.

Let's take a win-win today.

1. Beat 2 eggs and 2 tablespoons of sugar thoroughly.
2. Pour out a glass of milk.
3. Add 200 g flour and a teaspoon of cinnamon.

Everything carefullystir. You can add a little saffron to make pancakes more beautiful, sunny yellow. Bake in a hot pan, pouring a small portion of dough each time. After the pancake is browned, it must be turned over to the other side. Be sure to brush with butter to keep the pancakes from drying out.

Cinnamon Buns

This is already a classic. Any buns and sweet pies take on a special charm if cinnamon has been added to the dough. Try French buns. Surely family members will appreciate their amazing taste.

1. Mix a sachet of yeast and 100 g of flour, add a heaping teaspoon of cinnamon.
2. In a separate saucepan, combine 300 ml of milk and 40 g of butter, a little s alt and an egg.
3. Pour yeast and flour into a saucepan and beat well. Roll the dough into a ball and leave to rise for an hour.
4. Now roll out the sheet and brush it with butter, sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar, add raisins.
5. Roll it up and cut into small "snails". Bake at 180 degrees for 30 minutes.

Mix powdered sugar and cream, heat over a fire until boiling. The resulting icing should be lightly poured over each bun. It turns out very beautiful and elegant. And what a scent!

Apple and cinnamon for dinner

Even if you are not on a diet, this dish will be a great treat and will allow you not to eat too much in the evening. At the same time, a minimum of cooking time is required, equal toas well as products. For a glass of kefir, you will need to take two apples and 0.5 teaspoon of cinnamon.

Apples need to be peeled and rubbed through a grater. Add kefir and cinnamon. It turns out a very tasty puree, which can be consumed for dinner with great pleasure. Apples with cinnamon can be a great dessert, he althy and light. Its calorie content is low - about 57 kcal per 100 g. Therefore, you can use it for dinner without harm to the figure. This delicacy can be made throughout the day, just be careful that the daily dose of cinnamon is not too large.

Instead of a conclusion

Cinnamon is a universal spice that is used for cooking first and second courses, and has also proven itself as an aromatic additive to baking. Pies and buns, cheesecakes and cookies - everything turns out much tastier with cinnamon. In addition, cinnamon powder has medicinal properties, due to which it can be used in the complex therapy of various diseases.

Be careful, it also has its contraindications. Before use, be sure to consult your doctor.

There are many recipes that can use cinnamon. Be sure to try to cook soups, salads, jelly desserts. Thanks to the aromatic spices, they are especially tasty. And for those who follow a strict diet, it will become an ideal assistant at all, as it helps control appetite and lowers blood glucose levels.