Cinnamon Tea for Weight Loss

Cinnamon tea is easy and inexpensive to make; all you need is water and cinnamon. It may also be a key to weight loss for some people. Add 2 teaspoons of cinnamon or place two cinnamon sticks in a cup of boiling water. Let it sit for half an hour, sieve out the clumps of cinnamon, and enjoy. For the best results, drink this tea first thing in the morning and before you go to sleep at night.

Significance

Cinnamon is a spice commonly used during festive winter times as it "warms" the body. This thermogenic response possibly speeds the body's metabolism resulting in weight loss. Millions of people are searching for ways to help lose weight, and drinking cinnamon tea for weight loss may help some shed pounds.

Theories/Speculation

There are a couple of theories about why cinnamon tea has an effect on weight. One of these theories is all about thermogenics. Some substances, such as cinnamon, create heat within the body due to a chemical reaction. The body's metabolism speeds up to counteract the excess heat and balance body temperature. Excess calories are burned throughout the process of thermogenics.

Another theory is related to the effect of cinnamon on blood sugar levels. Cinnamon decreases blood sugar levels, which increases the level of insulin. The higher amount of insulin is believed to shrink fat cells. Some experts believe cinnamon tea weight loss is especially effective for people with diabetes as they need more insulin.

Benefits

There are many benefits to consuming cinnamon beyond weight loss. Adding cinnamon to your diet can lower the risk of diabetes and lower bad cholesterol. It can also calm an upset stomach and reduce the risk of ulcers. Cinnamon has a positive effect on memory and may help the brain function on a higher level. Sprinkle cinnamon on your breakfast toast or cereal in the morning and see if you perform better at work.

Variations

Cinnamon tea is also touted as a weight loss remedy when made with other ingredients. You may get better results with this recipe for Cinnamon and Honey Tea. Create a regular cinnamon tea and add 1 tablespoon of pure honey after the tea sits for half an hour so the boiling water does not destroy honey's beneficial properties. It is recommended to drink all cinnamon teas both before bed and first thing in the morning.

Honey can aid in better digestion. This natural sweetener keeps the blood sugar level constant so there is no "high" or "crash" as there is with sugar. Honey's vitamins and minerals nourish the body and help keep bad cholesterol levels down.

Warnings:

Cinnamon is obtained from the bark of the cinnamon tree native to Sri Lanka. Ceylon cinnamon is sometimes referred to as "true cinnamon." It is fine, crumbles easily, is less aromatic, and is made only from the inner bark of the tree.

Cassia is regularly sold as cinnamon and is made from the entire bark of the tree. It is stronger and somewhat bitter compared to Ceylon. It contains a chemical called coumarin that can be toxic if taken in large quantities. Small amounts of cassia will not cause any problems. If large doses (about 1/2 teaspoon) are taken regularly, it may be unsafe. Avoid more than a sprinkle of cassia cinnamon if you are pregnant. Ceylon, "true cinnamon," contains hardly any coumarin and is considered safe.