Cinnamon, also known as dalchini, is one of the most favorite spices in our kitchen. Loved for its warm and sweet aroma, this spice can instantly enhance the taste of any dish. Since we love including cinnamon in our dishes, we ensure that its supply never runs out. Plus, it’s packed with essential vitamins and nutrients – what’s not to love about it? However, have you ever stopped to think whether the cinnamon you are using is clean and safe? You may think that you are getting incredible benefits from this spice by adding it to your dishes, but the reality may be quite different. Recently, nutritionist Simrun Chopra revealed the truth on Instagram so that you can make an informed decision while shopping for cinnamon.
Also read: 5 Amazing Ways You Can Use Cinnamon In Your Daily Life – You Won’t Believe Number 4
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How to check the purity of cinnamon – here’s what a nutritionist explains:
Simrun told that the most commonly found cinnamon in the market is Cassia. It looks like bark, has a wider surface area, and is often used as a cheaper alternative to cinnamon. According to him, “Cassia is high in coumarin, which can be toxic to your health in large amounts.” She further explains that if you want to get the benefits of drinking cinnamon water, then you should use real cinnamon. But what does real cinnamon look like? Simrun revealed that real cinnamon is smooth on the outside and rolled from one side to the other – just like a newspaper. It also has a very delicate smell and taste. “If you’re drinking cinnamon water, choose real cinnamon. If you’re making curry, you can use cassia, but in moderation,” she says.
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What are the different types of cinnamon?
Do you know that there are four types of cinnamon? Of these four, Cassia and Ceylon cinnamon are the most famous. Ceylon cinnamon comes from Sri Lanka and is known for its smooth texture. The other two varieties are Korintje cinnamon from Indonesia and Saigon cinnamon from Vietnam. All of these cinnamon varieties differ in their flavor profiles and coumarin levels, making them unique.
How to include cinnamon in your diet?
There are many exciting ways to include cinnamon in your diet. You can add it to your curries, porridge and even beverages like tea or coffee. Not only that, but you can also add cinnamon to many baked goods like cakes, pies, and cupcakes. Are you looking for some interesting cinnamon-based recipes? Click here to know.
Also read: Lose weight with cinnamon water! 4 ways this spice can help in weight loss
Now that you know how to identify if your cinnamon is poisonous or not, we hope you will be able to make a better choice for yourself.
