A Sprinkle of Cinnamon

The nutritional benefits of cinnamon are almost as good as the taste! Learn how this spice can boost your health and get some tasty recipes!

What do oatmeal, brownies and pecans have in common? All three are even more delicious with a sprinkle of cinnamon. Add it to sweets. Add it to main dishes. I add it practically everything! It may just be my favorite flavor booster.

But cinnamon isn't just a delicious taste. Nutrition facts may not instantly come to mind when thinking of cinnamon, but it contains vitamin, minerals, and phytochemicals. A generous sprinkle adds a punch of flavor and health benefits!

The Nutritional Benefits of Cinnamon

Cinnamon has a history of medicinal use. Traditional healing systems have used it to stimulate circulation and increase energy. In some cases, it was used to shorten colds and improve well-being. In modern day, research suggests that the sweet, staple spice may be beneficial in heart and diabetic health; it may stabilize blood sugar, lower triglycerides and total cholesterol, and lower blood pressure. While it’s too soon to say exactly how much cinnamon it takes to experience health benefits, more research is in the works. On top of everything else, adding cinnamon to tea, oatmeal, and other foods can give you a sweet fix without adding sugar.

Recipes Using Cinnamon

Want to add more cinnamon to your diet? Here are a few ideas!

• Slice up an apple and cover the exposed sides in cinnamon. Not only does it instantly turn your apple into dessert, the edges won’t turn brown. Perfect for prepping ahead!
• Sprinkle into plain yogurt and add fresh berries.
• Add to homemade desserts for a little “something extra”
• Sprinkle over air-popped popcorn
• Try one of the many Prep Dish recipes with cinnamon added in. Here are a few to choose from:

Paleo Oatmeal w/ Coconut & Flax

Chai Spiced Zucchini Muffins

Sweet & Savory Rosemary Pecans

Beef & Butternut Squash Tagine

Slow Cooker Moroccan Chicken

Pumpkin Swirl Brownies

Low Carb Snickerdoodle Bars

What is your favorite way to use cinnamon? Share your ideas and pictures on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram as @prepdish in all 3 places, or leave a comment below.