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Benefits of Honey and Cinnamon: Are 2 Superfoods Better Than 1?

AHA Publisher — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 07:00:02 +0000

Christine Ruggeri, CHHC via Dr. Axe – Honey and cinnamon have been used since ancient times to support human health and wellness. Honey has a rich history dating back to ancient Greek, Roman, Vedic and Egyptian texts, while cinnamon has been used in Chinese and Ayurvedic folk medicine for over 2,000 years. We know that, individually, both cinnamon and honey possess powerful therapeutic properties. What about when you use them together? If one is good by itself, does that mean that the two combined can be even more beneficial? Here’s what you need to know about the combination of honey and cinnamon. Benefits of Cinnamon 1. Rich in Antioxidants A major benefit of cinnamon is its antioxidant content. This helps reduce free radical damage and slow the aging process. Researchers have identified at least 41 different compounds in cinnamon with health-promoting capabilities. 2. Has Antimicrobial Properties Because cinnamon has antimicrobial properties, it can be used to optimize oral hygiene, fight infections and support skin health. Research suggests that it helps improve bad breath and tooth decay, ease respiratory issues like the common cold and sore throat, and soothe skin irritation, redness and swelling. 3. Relieves Inflammation The flavonoids in cinnamon have been proven to help alleviate inflammation, reduce swelling, ease muscle soreness and lessen the severity of allergic reactions. 4. Protects Heart Health Research shows that cinnamon may reduce several of the most common risk factors for heart disease, including high cholesterol levels, high triglyceride levels and high blood pressure. It may be a helpful blood coagulant that helps the body form blood clots and promotes circulation. 5. Stabilizes Blood Sugar Studies indicate that cinnamon has anti-diabetic effects and can lower blood sugar levels and improve sensitivity to the hormone insulin. This is what makes it one of the best foods for diabetics. 6. Supports Brain Function Antioxidants in cinnamon have been found to help defend against the development of neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. Benefits of Honey 1. Helps Fight Allergies The bee pollen in honey helps boost immunity and can improve allergy symptoms with a concept called immunotherapy. Studies indicate that consuming local pollen reduces a person’s sensitivity over time, thereby reducing allergy symptoms. 2. Provides Antioxidants A daily dose of honey provides health-promoting antioxidants that help block free radicals in the body and prevent a number of diseases. Research shows that consuming honey increases levels of disease-fighting polyphenols in the blood and other antioxidants that support enzyme activity. 3. Supports Sleep Honey helps promote restorative sleep. It helps restock the liver’s glycogen supply and prevents the brain from searching for fuel, which can keep you up at night. Eating honey also promotes the release of melatonin in the brain by stimulating the release tryptophan. 4. Relieves Cough Research suggests that a single dose of honey can reduce mucus secretion and coughs. One study found that honey was just as effective as diphenhydramine and dextromethorphan, two ingredients that are commonly used in over-the-counter cough medicines. 5. Aids Wound Healing Studies show that honey is an antibacterial agent that aids wound healing and creates an inhospitable environment for bacteria. It can be used for the treatment of wounds, burns and skin ulcers. How Honey and Cinnamon Work Together Honey and cinnamon both possess powerful antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This is why they’ve been used in ancient medicine to relieve a slew of health conditions. The reasons these two superfoods create such a powerful effect on the body vary but generally center on their ability to control inflammation, combat free radicals and boost immune function. When used together, cinnamon powder and honey offer a range health benefits, improving cholesterol and immune system health, while aiding weight loss and fighting heart disease. The compounds found in both foods come together to have the best effects, making them a perfect addition to tea, recipes or even a glass of water. Here’s a rundown of their combined health benefits for weight, heart health and more: 1. Combat Allergies Cinnamon and honey both help fight allergies and allergy symptoms. A perfect example of how cinnamon can help with allergies can be seen in a study that evaluated its ability to control the powerful allergen house mites. This allergen has become a global problem, and researchers from the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment found that at least 45 percent of young people with asthma are allergic to house dust mites. Researchers from Egypt tested the effect that various essential oils had in killing the highly allergic house mite and found that cinnamon was the most potent agent. This is due to cinnamon’s component cinnamaldehyde. Note: Cinnamon oil is toxic to cats and shouldn’t be used in cat households. Honey also serves as a natural therapeutic agent for fighting allergies. Ingesting just a teaspoon of local raw honey every day can boost your immune system and fight allergies by helping build a tolerance to local pollen. The International Archives of Allergy and Immunology published an article that analyzed this theory and discovered that preseasonal use of birch pollen honey helped people with birch pollen allergies by lowering total symptoms by 60 percent. Those treated with honey experienced twice as many asymptomatic days, had 70 percent fewer days with severe symptoms and used 50 percent less antihistamines compared to the group that took conventional medications for allergies. 2. Improve Diabetes Symptoms Cinnamon and honey together can be beneficial for healthy blood sugar management. Research published in the journal Nutrition Research suggests that up to 1,500 milligrams of cinnamon supplementation benefits the lipid profile, liver enzymes, insulin resistance and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein in diabetics and people with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease patients. According to a study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food, honey has been observed to cause a lower elevation of plasma glucose levels in diabetics compared to dextrose and sucrose. Some suggest that the insulin-boosting power of cinnamon can counteract this glucose elevation in honey, which would make your honey and cinnamon mixture a low glycemic indexfood. 3. Fight Acne and Skin Infections Because of the combination’s antimicrobial capacity, cinnamon oil mixed with honey is used all over the world to treat skin conditions, such as acne and skin issues. Researchers from Iran even discovered that the antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of honey are actually more potent in treating wounds and burns and result in less skin problems than conventional medicine. A 2017 study published in Phytotherapy Research found that cinnamon essential oil significantly inhibited the production of several inflammatory biomarkers that are involved in skin inflammation and tissue remodeling. It works as a powerful anti-inflammatory agent that can help soothe some skin conditions and improve the immune response. 4. Relieve Common Cold and Other Respiratory Issues The cinnamon-honey combination helps relieve common cold and respiratory symptoms, like sore throat, by fighting infections, boosting immunity and providing antioxidants. In a study published in the American Journal of Chinese Medicine, cinnamon essential oil was found to be highly effective in slowing the growth of a number of bacteria and fungi. The study showed that cinnamon oil inhibits the growth of E. coli, candida and staph aureus — all microorganisms that can cause a number of diseases, including the common cold. Research shows that honey is better than no treatment in reducing the frequency of cough and may even be more effective than diphenhydramine, an antihistamine. Plus, there’s evidence that honey is loaded with protective antioxidants that help fight respiratory conditions and many other health issues. Regularly combining cinnamon’s antimicrobial properties with immune-boosting raw honey boosts the body’s immunity and ability to fight off respiratory infections like the common cold. If you happen to get some kind of respiratory condition, consuming cinnamon and honey may help shorten your recovery time. 5. Fight UTIs Cinnamomum zeylanicum works as a powerful antibacterial agent, and research shows that it effectively inhibits the growth of gram-negative bacteria like E. coli, the main cause of urinary tract infections. A lab study conducted in Algeria found that when honey was tested against 11 multi-drug-resistant bacterial strains that were isolated from urinary tract infections of pregnant women, it exhibited potent antibacterial activity. Ingesting a combination of cinnamon powder and honey not only helps destroy the bacteria within the urinary tract, but it may also inhibit the growth of germs living in the bladder, thereby working as a potential preventative measure against bladder infections. 6. Soothe Digestive Issues Honey and cinnamon have become quite popular in managing digestive issues, such as constipation, nausea and ulcers. This makes sense, as these superfoods have been used as natural remedies for digestive ailments by our ancestors. Honey has proved to be a predigested nectar, so it is easy for the body to break it down. That can soothe an aggravated system. Cinnamon has antimicrobial characteristics that have helped countless people with bacterial overload in their digestive systems. This is especially true for people suffering from an E. coli infection, like a UTI. 7. Boost Energy Cinnamon and honey feature beneficial compounds that help boost energy. Chinese folk medicine has used cinnamon to promote healthy energy flow for centuries, and because of its insulin-boosting property, cinnamon has been known to give people energy as it stabilizes your blood sugar and improves insulin action in the brain. Honey is packed with micronutrients and antioxidants that help boost energy levels, fight inflammation and reduce signs of aging. When you take a teaspoon mixture of the two, you get a low-glycemic boost to help fuel your body, whether you just need a pick-me-up or you’re trying to get through a workout. 8. Treat Gingivitis The past few years, several studies have come out showing that Manuka honey can help treat gingivitis and periodontal disease. Due to its superior antimicrobial properties, researchers from the School of Dentistry at the University of Otago in New Zealand discovered that chewing or sucking on a Manuka honey product not only caused a 35 percent decrease in plaque, but it led to a 35 percent reduction in bleeding sites in people suffering from gingivitis. When combined with the powerful antimicrobial cinnamon, regular use of the amazing mixture can do wonders to your choppers. Honey and cinnamon benefits are proving to be a winning combination when it comes to dental health. How to Use One of the easiest ways to use honey and cinnamon to boost your health is to simply combine a half teaspoon of powdered cinnamon with a teaspoon of organic raw honey and ingest the mixture once daily. You can add this combination to water or use it to make an energizing and immune-boosting drink. This secret detox drink, for example, is also made with cinnamon and honey, along with other detoxifying ingredients like apple cider vinegar, cayenne pepper and lemon juice. Of course, there are many other ways to use cinnamon and honey in your cooking and add it to your diet. They can be added to your smoothie, used to make herbal tea and added to your homemade baked goods. This delicious gluten-free coffee cake is made with both cinnamon and honey. You can also apply cinnamon powder (or one to two drops of cinnamon oil) and honey to your skin to fight acne and skin issues. Simply create a paste by combining the two ingredients. Then apply it onto the area of concern before bed so it can sit for several hours. However, before using honey and cinnamon topically, do a patch test to make sure that your skin won’t have any adverse reactions. Risks and Side Effects Cinnamon and honey are safe for internal and topical use, but like all foods, some people may react adversely. If you experience skin irritation, stomach pain, sweating, diarrhea or nausea after using cinnamon or honey, stop taking right away. If you use cinnamon essential oil, remember that a small amount (one to two drops) goes a long way. Perform a patch test on your skin before...

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French Toast Recipe with Sourdough Bread

AHA Publisher — Tue, 10 Nov 2020 08:00:28 +0000

Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DMN, CNS – French toast is a delicious meal that many people think they have to give up when they begin eating wholesome, real foods. While it can definitely be a nutritional bomb full of empty calories, French toast can also be a yummy dish that can earn its place in a healthy, balanced diet. That’s why this is one of my favorite French toast recipes. This French toast recipe is ready in under 20 minutes. I love saving it for a weekend breakfast, brunch or holiday. You’ll want to savor every bite of this hearty breakfast! Key Ingredients We’ll skip the gobs of added sugar that traditional recipes can lump in for this French toast recipe. Sourdough bread has lots of flavor, and vanilla extract adds natural sweetness, and that’s not all when it comes the ingredients in this recipe. Ghee lends some extra health benefits, including lots of vitamins and a super “buttery” flavor, while real, nutrition-rich maple syrup is so much better than the syrup-like stuff they put out at diners. And don’t forget the coconut milk — this stuff improves heart health, builds muscle and prevents you from feeling sluggish afterward. Of course, eggs provide a good source of protein and healthy fats, while the cinnamon not only adds flavor … but also a host of benefits, including the ability to combat inflammation, protect the heart and stablize blood sugar. How to Make the Best French Toast We’ll start by slicing up a fresh loaf of sourdough bread into 8 slices. You could use pre-sliced bread, but the heartiness of a loaf holds up much better for French toast. Next, let’s whisk together the eggs, coconut milk, vanilla and cinnamon. Don’t skip the benefit-loaded cinnamon — it has loads of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties and diabetes-fighting effects. If you’re feeling wild, add in a dash of nutmeg, too! Drench the bread in the egg mixture, letting each slice soak for 2 minutes. Now, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of ghee. Once it’s sizzling and hot, fry each slice of bread until crispy, about 3–4 minutes. The bread is going to smell terrific, but resist the urge to remove it from the skillet too early. You don’t want soggy French toast. Add more ghee as needed between batches of bread. Once all the bread is fried, crisp and ready to be devoured, serve with butter, maple syrup and fruit. French Toast Recipe with Sourdough Bread DESCRIPTION This French toast recipe with sourdough skips the added sugar. Ghee and coconut milk lend extra benefits including vitamins and healthy fats. INGREDIENTS ½ loaf crusty sourdough bread 5 eggs 1 cup coconut milk 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 1 tablespoon cinnamon 6 tablespoons ghee INSTRUCTIONS Slice the bread into 8 slices. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla and cinnamon. Drench the bread in the mixture, allowing it to soak for 2 minutes per piece. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of ghee to the skillet. Working in batches of 1–2 slices each, fry the drenched bread until crispy, 3–4 minutes per side. Add more ghee to the skillet in between batches. Serve hot with butter and maple syrup or fruit. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Axe click here.

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Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe: Make Your Own!

AHA Publisher — Tue, 27 Oct 2020 07:00:30 +0000

Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DMN, CNS – With the rich aroma of coffee, the delightful taste of pumpkin and the comforting scents of fall spices, this festive twist on coffee is sure to make your mouth water. Pumpkin spice lattes have become extremely popular in recent years, but have you ever thought about how healthy the store-bought versions are? Many people love pumpkin spice lattes from coffee shops, but what if I told you that it’s not hard at all to make a homemade pumpkin spice latte recipe. Plus, it will be much healthier than the majority of store-bought flavored lattes. This recipe steers clear of the No. 1 pumpkin spiced latte ingredient to avoid this Fall, but it leaves absolutely nothing to be desired when it comes to flavor. This latte recipe creates a beverage that is delicious, nutritious and energizing. You can thank the key health ingredients in this latte for that. Coffee is actually packed with antioxidants — as are the pumpkin spices, pumpkin is loaded with immune-boosting vitamin A and coconut milk is packed with healthy fats. Try this healthy pumpkin spice latte recipe if you’re ready to excite your tastebuds and get in the fall spirit! What’s Wrong with You-Know-Who’s Pumpkin Spice Latte? Pumpkin spice latte calories (the empty, not nutritious kind) aren’t the only thing to worry about when you order a pumpkin spice latte at your local coffee shop. What’s the problem? For starters, at many shops, this latte is loaded with outrageous amounts of added sugar. To give you an example of just how high some latte’s sugar content is — if you order a 16 ounce pumpkin spice latte made with whole milk and finished off with whipped cream at one coffee shop, you will be consuming 50 grams of sugar! There’s more reason for concern — check out some of the offending ingredients found in some conventional pumpkin spice lattes: Carrageenan (from the whipped cream): Some experts believe that carrageenan exposure from foods and beverages clearly leads to inflammation and that the quantity of carrageenan in consumable products is enough to cause inflammation. To learn more: What is Carrageenan? Is it Dangerous? Potassium Sorbate (from the vanilla syrup): This preservative gives foods a longer shelf life, but is it safe? Potassium sorbate can cause allergies. It has also been known to be contaminated with health-hazardous lead, mercury and arsenic! Sulfiting agents (from the pumpkin spice topping): According to an article published back in 1984, we have known the possible negative side effects of sulfiting agents for a long time. Some people are sensitive to sulfites, and exposure has been known to lead to a variety of unwanted symptoms, including dermatitis, hives, low blood pressure, abdominal pain, diarrhea and even life-threatening anaphylactic and asthmatic reactions. People with asthma are more likely to negatively react to sulfites. Why not avoid all of these risky ingredients and make your own pumpkin spice latte in the comfort of your home? This pumpkin spice latte recipe is one of the five drinks that leaves you-know-who’s pumpkin spice latte in the dust. Key Ingredients Instead of health-destructive refined sugar, this pumpkin spice latte recipe contains maple syrup, and overall, it has under 10 grams of sugar per serving, which is way less than a store-bought version of this latte. This recipe also provides coconut milk nutrition, which means a lot of good fats that help to keep blood sugar levels stable. Coconut milk’s MCTs are also a preferred energy source for the body. Of course, this real pumpkin latte contains pumpkin. It’s pretty incredible how just one spoonful of pumpkin puree can provide over a third of most people’s daily vitamin A requirements! Another key ingredient for this delicious latte is pumpkin spice mix, which is typically a combination of cinnamon, cloves, ginger and nutmeg. These warming spices contain disease-fighting antioxidants, which is why three of these four spices (cinnamon, cloves and ginger) are featured on my Top 10 High Antioxidant Foods List. Make sure you choose a high-quality organic coffee or espresso to use for your pumpkin spice latte. Coffee is a very pesticide-ridden crop, so choosing organic is key to optimizing coffee benefits, which studies show include improved physical performance and a boost to cognitive function, especially when you’re working out. If you’re avoiding caffeine, this pumpkin spice latte can also be made without the addition of coffee or espresso. Nutrition Facts One serving of this pumpkin spice latte recipe contains about: 247 calories 1.8 grams protein 21 grams fat 0.5 gram fiber 8.5 grams sugar 11.2 grams carbohydrates 31.5 milligrams sodium 1750 IUs vitamin A (35 percent DV) 192 milligrams potassium (5.5 percent DV) 0.7 milligrams iron (3.9 percent DV) 20 milligrams calcium (2 percent DV) How to Make A Pumpkin Spice Latte This pumpkin latte only has six ingredients and takes five minutes or less to make! First, heat up the coconut milk (or another nut milk of your choice) in a small pot or tea kettle. Begin adding the rest of the ingredients to a blender. The coffee or espresso can go in first. Followed by the maple syrup. Now the vanilla extract. The cooked pumpkin puree can go in next. Add in the pumpkin pie spice. Pour in the heated coconut milk. Blend all ingredients until well-combined. Pour into mugs and sprinkle some extra pumpkin pie spice on top, if desired. Serve and enjoy! INGREDIENTS 1 cup coconut milk 2 tablespoons cooked organic pumpkin puree 1 tablespoon maple syrup ¼ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract ¼ cup organic brewed coffee or espresso INSTRUCTIONS Heat the coconut milk in a small pot or tea kettle. Add the milk and remaining ingredients to a blender, blending until well-combined. Pour into a mug and sprinkle extra pumpkin pie spice, if desired. Serve and enjoy! To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Axe click here.

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