Nutritional Value of Cinnamon

One of the most popular spices used worldwide, cinnamon is known for its aromatic fragrance and sweet, warm taste. The spice is derived from the bark of an evergreen tree, which belongs to the family Lauraceae. Talking about the types of cinnamon available, Chinese and Ceylon are the two popular varieties. Though both have a similar flavor, the latter is slightly sweeter and refined than the former. Cinnamon is native to Sri Lanka, but plays an important role in the cuisines of the world. Though mostly used as a spice, cinnamon has great medicinal value. It has been found to be extremely helpful in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes mellitus and insulin resistance. To know more about the nutrition value present in cinnamon, go through the Food Rating Chart given below.

Cinnamon Nutrition Facts

Amount ofCinnamon: 2 teaspoon

Total Weight of Cinnamon: 4.52 g

Nutrients	Amount
Basic Components
Protein	0.16 g
Carbohydrates	3.6 g
Water	0.44 g
Ash	0.16 g
Calories
Total Calories	11.84
Calories From Fat	1.28
Calories From Carbohydrate Calories From Protein	3.6 g 0.16 g
Carbohydrates
Dietary Fiber	2.48 g
Fats
Total Fat	0.16 g
Saturated Fat	0.04 g
Mono Fat	0.04 g
Poly Fat	0.04 g
Vitamins
Vitamin A Beta Carotene	7.08 mcg
Niacin B3 Niacin equiv	0.04 mg 0.04 mg
Vitamin C	1.28 mg
Folate	1.32 mcg
Vitamin K	1.44 mcg
Minerals
Calcium	55.68 mg
Iron	1.72 mg
Magnesium	2.52 mg
Manganese	0.76 mg
Phosphorus	2.8 mg
Potassium	22.68 mg
Selenium	0.04 mcg
Sodium	1.2 mg
Zinc	0.08 mg
Mono Fats
18:1 Oleic	0.04 g
Poly Fats
18:2 Linoleic	0.04 g
Other Fats
Omega 6 Fatty Acids	0.04 g

Buying & Storing Facts

Generally, cinnamon is available in two forms - stick and powder. While cinnamon stick can be stored for a longer duration, the powder form is good for those looking for a strong flavor. The maximum life of ground cinnamon is generally about six months. Cinnamon sticks, on the other hand, remain fresh for about a year. The best bet would be to buy small amounts of fresh cinnamon occasionally. At the time of buying, smell the cinnamon. If it emits a sweet smell, know for sure that it is fresh. Sweet smell is characteristic of a fresh cinnamon.

While buying cinnamon, make sure you get one that is organically grown. This would give you an assurance that it has not been irradiated. Irradiated cinnamon is precarious and can cause a significant decrease in its vitamin C and carotenoid content. To increase the life (i.e. the freshness and flavor) of the cinnamon, store them in a refrigerator. At the time of storing, ensure that the cinnamon is stocked in a tightly sealed glass container. Place the container in a cool, dark and dry place. While heat weakens the flavor of the spice, high humidity causes caking.

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