Hi Friend,  

Cinnamon is more than just a flavorful addition to your morning coffee or a sprinkle on your oatmeal—this humble spice is packed with health benefits, particularly for women navigating midlife and beyond. From balancing blood sugar to boosting metabolism, here's why cinnamon deserves a spot in your daily routine.

1. Balances Blood Sugar

Hormonal changes during and after menopause can make blood sugar regulation more challenging. Research highlights cinnamon’s ability to help stabilize glucose levels, which is critical for women over 50 who may be at a higher risk for prediabetes or diabetes.

• A study showed that consuming 4 grams (about 1 teaspoon) of cinnamon daily significantly reduced 24-hour blood sugar levels and post-meal spikes by nearly 19%.

• Cinnamon contains compounds that mimic insulin, improving glucose uptake in the body and enhancing how effectively your body uses insulin.

• It can also slow digestion and gastric emptying after meals, reducing the blood sugar surge caused by carbohydrate-heavy foods.

2. Supports Heart Health

Midlife women often face an increased risk of cardiovascular issues. Cinnamon offers potential heart-protective benefits by lowering post-meal triglycerides, a type of fat linked to heart disease.

3. Boosts Metabolism and Aids Weight Loss

Cinnamon contains over 20 bioactive compounds that positively impact metabolism. According to Dr. William Li, it may even support weight loss and enhance fat-burning processes. Adding cinnamon to your meals can amplify flavors without extra sugar, making it easier to stick to a healthy eating plan.

4. Provides Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Benefits

As we age, combating inflammation and oxidative stress becomes essential for maintaining overall health. Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce chronic inflammation, a key driver of many age-related diseases.

5. Easy Ways to Incorporate Cinnamon

Adding cinnamon to your diet is simple and versatile:

• Sprinkle it on oatmeal, yogurt, or fresh fruit.

• Stir it into your coffee.

• Try my Cinnamon Cherry Smoothie for a delicious way to fuel your day with balanced nutrition and a blood sugar-friendly twist.

• Use it in savory dishes, like spice rubs for meat, tofu, or roasted vegetables.

6. Choosing the Right Type

For maximum benefits, opt for Ceylon cinnamon, often referred to as "true cinnamon." It’s considered safer for long-term use and contains higher concentrations of beneficial compounds compared to Cassia cinnamon.

Start Small and Stay Consistent

Begin with small amounts of cinnamon (1-2 grams daily) and gradually increase to up to 4 grams for glucose-lowering effects. As you incorporate this powerhouse spice into your meals, you’ll not only enjoy its warm, comforting flavor but also its profound health benefits.

Make cinnamon part of your midlife health strategy—it’s a simple, natural way to support your body through this empowering stage of life.

To your health,
Jacqui