Cinnamon is not only a delicious way to add natural sweetness to dishes, but is known for it’s many health benefits. Some studies found that cinnamon can improve blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes, serve as an anti-microbial agent fighting harmful bacteria, promote reduced inflammation, and serve as an antioxidant fighting off free radicals.
The concern with any supplement made from plants is potential contamination with heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, and arsenic. Cadmium and arsenic are both carcinogens and can damage organs such as the kidney.
According to a consumer lab report, cassia cinnamon contain relatively high levels of a naturally. occurring toxic substance called coumarin. In animal models this compound has been shown to cause tumors, meaning chronic high doses could have serious side effects in humans.
Consumer labs went ahead and tested several bottle of ground cinnamon to test for heavy metals so that you can be an informed consumer and pick a safe cinnamon. Below is the list of approved spice brands and the ones that you should go ahead and throw out.
Approved list of cinnamon spices:
- 365 Whole Foods Cinnamon
- FGO Organic Melon Cinnamon Powder
- McCormick Ground Cinnamon
Ones to throw away:
- Badia Cinnamon Powder (due to high levels of lead and coumarin)
- Simply Organic Vietnamese cinnamon (due to high levels of coumarin)
Go check your cupboard and make sure you are using the right one!