Cinnamon is a powerful spice that has been used medicinally around the world for thousands of years.

Cinnamon’s potent health benefits are derived from the Cinnamomum tree. The bark, specifically, contains several compounds responsible for its health-promoting properties including cinnamaldehyde, cinnamic acid, and cinnamate. Together, these compounds make cinnamon one of the most beneficial spices, rich with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-microbial, immunity-boosting, cancer and heart disease-protecting abilities.

The best part? Even a little goes a long way. Just ½-teaspoon of cinnamon daily can have positive effects on blood sugar levels, digestion, and immunity, among other benefits. Stronger doses can improve heart disease while curbing users’ risk for diabetes, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases. Some simple ways to get a little -- or a lot -- of cinnamon in your day?

Sprinkle cinnamon on top of oatmeal, cereal, or toast in the morning
Incorporate cinnamon into dishes such as classic chili or spaghetti sauce
Add a teaspoon of cinnamon to your protein shake or morning smoothie
Stir a teaspoon of cinnamon into a glass of herbal tea or coffee, or stir your coffee/tea with a cinnamon stick
Combine three cups of milk with one tsp of vanilla extract and one tsp of cinnamon
Blend and serve chilled -- this “cinnamon vanilla milk” is perfect for kids and adults

Alternatively, cinnamon is available in supplement form and can be picked up at any pharmacy or drugstore. It’s commonly packaged as a solo supplement or as a component in blood sugar support supplements.