Cinnamon May Help You Learn And Remember Things Better - Experts Explain

An Indian kitchen is a storehouse of all things healthy, wealthy and wise. We find a range of masalas on the spice rack that are aromatic and flavourful and add richness to Indian cuisine. That's not all. All these spices are super nutritious too. Loaded with several essential nutrients, they have been a part of traditional medical practice since time immemorial. One such spice that rules our everyday life is cinnamon (dal chini). It is widely used to add a distinct flavour to our meals and also comes with several healing properties. Cinnamon is loaded with antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties that help boost overall immunity. A new study states, it helps promote brain health too. Published in the journal Nutritional Neuroscience, the study states that cinnamon has certain properties that help promote cognitive processes like memory and learning. Let's explain it to you in detail.

Also Read: 6 Reasons Why You Should Be Drinking Cinnamon Water Daily

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Does Cinnamon Improve Brain Function?

Cinnamon and its benefits need no separate introduction. Several studies across the globe have found evidence of its positive effects on weight, blood sugar levels, heart health and more. Adding to all these benefits, the new study found that some nutrients in the spice could also be great for boosting our memory too. They found that the components in cinnamon- cinnamic acid, eugenol and cinnamaldehyde - had a positive effect on human brain function. The study was conducted by researchers at Birjand University of Medical Sciences

Cinnamon for memory and learning - Here's what experts say:

The researchers conducted two clinical studies, focusing on the effects of cinnamon consumption in young adults and prediabetic adults, who were aged below 60. The first group of people were asked to chew "sticks of cinnamon gum"; the second group of people i.e. the prediabetic adults were asked to have "two-gram of white bread laced with cinnamon".

Cinnamon for memory and learning - Here's what experts found:

The result of the study showed:

• The first group of participants (young adults) experienced improved cognitive and memory function.
• The first group of participants also experienced reduced symptoms of anxiety.
• The second group of participants (pre-diabetics) had a little-to-no change in cognitive function.

The researchers, hence, inferred, "Cinnamon and its compounds appear to have a beneficial effect on cognition and learning".

Considering it all, we say, include cinnamon in your everyday diet to enjoy its benefits to the fullest. And always remember, moderation is the key. Meanwhile, we bring you some effective ways to add cinnamon to your everyday diet.

Also Read: Cinnamon Milk: 5 Health Benefits Of The Spiced Milk And How To Make It

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Here're 5 Ways To Include Cinnamon In Your Diet:

1. Cinnamon Water:

You can make detox water with cinnamon and have it early in the morning. All you need to do is soak half an inch of cinnamon stick in a glass of water, overnight and drink the next morning.

2. Cinnamon Tea:

The ones who start their day with hot water can add half tsp of cinnamon dust to the water while boiling. Boil it on a medium flame for 5-7 minutes, strain and drink the tea.

3. Sugar Replacement:

Cinnamon is a natural sweetener. This means you can add cinnamon dust to your desserts, instead of sugar, to make it delicious and aromatic at the same time.

4. As Spice:

This is possibly the most common form of cinnamon consumption. Add it to your sabzi or use it as a tadka to your dal and indulge.

5. Garnishing Element:

As mentioned earlier, cinnamon is a natural sweetener and has a rich aroma as well. So, you can sprinkle some cinnamon dust on your breakfast smoothie or oatmeal bowl (or any dish) and enjoy the benefits to the fullest.

Eat healthy, stay fit!

Note: The food suggestions are not a part of the study.