Most of us have experienced cravings, especially for sweets, and cinnamon fits right into this category. Cinnamon is a prevalent spice featured in numerous sugary delights like cinnamon rolls, cinnamon French toast, or a fall-themed cinnamon coffee. But is there any significance to a craving for cinnamon?
Although there’s no specific scientific explanation for why we crave cinnamon, if it is a key ingredient in a comforting dish, your craving might be linked to your emotional state or stress level (as per LiveStrong). As a favorite in baked treats, it might be due to a sugar craving or a sign of lowering blood sugar. Your emotional state can also play a role in your craving for cinnamon delights, particularly as consuming carbohydrates has been associated with higher serotonin levels, often referred to as the happiness hormone in the brain.
While delightful, a complex carbohydrate or sugary fruit will keep you satiated longer than baked goods.
Do cinnamon’s nutritional benefits exist?
Some suggest that cinnamon may possess addictive qualities, making it more of a comfort food than a physical addiction. Cinnamon can be mentally addictive similarly to sugar, as it is sweet and activates the brain’s pleasure response (according to Bustle). Unlike sugar, however, cinnamon can help satisfy cravings and manage blood sugar levels without the adverse health impacts associated with sugar alone.
Ultimately, indulging in a cinnamon craving isn’t necessarily negative. Cinnamon doesn’t offer a wide range of nutrients, so its health benefits are limited (via LiveStrong). As with any food, moderation is crucial. Excessive cinnamon consumption can lead to side effects like heartburn, indigestion, or increased bleeding for those on blood thinners, posing particular risks for pregnant women (as noted by Healthline).
When choosing between sugar and cinnamon, feel free to enjoy your favorite cinnamon treat when the craving hits!
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