Cinnamon sticks are a naturally shaped and dried spice obtained from the bark of the cinnamon tree. After peeling, the bark of the cinnamon tree is rolled into a roll and hardens when dried, forming a stick. It is usually used to add flavor to hot drinks (tea, coffee, sahlep) or to add flavor to desserts and some dishes. Cinnamon sticks, unlike ground cinnamon, retain their freshness for a longer period of time and emit a milder aroma.
How to Use Cinnamon Sticks?
Cinnamon sticks can be used in different ways to add aroma and flavor to various recipes and drinks;
1- In drinks
Hot drinks: You can add cinnamon sticks directly to drinks such as tea, coffee , sahlep, hot chocolate. The aroma spreads slowly as you stir the drink. Especially in winter, adding cinnamon to hot drinks gives your drink a pleasant smell and a light taste.
Mulled wine: Traditional mulled wine recipes use cinnamon sticks, orange and cloves.
2- In desserts
Jams and compotes: In jams or fruit compotes, cinnamon sticks give a natural sweetener and a pleasant aroma when added during boiling.
Rice pudding and pudding: When making milk desserts, you can add a cinnamon stick during the boiling stage and remove it after the dessert has cooled.
3- In meals
Meat dishes: Cinnamon sticks are used to add a deep flavor to meat dishes, especially in some Middle Eastern and Moroccan cuisine recipes. Cinnamon sticks can also enhance the flavor of dishes such as pilaf and stews.
Chicken dishes: For example, chicken marinated in cinnamon can create an exotic flavor.
4- Homemade aromas
Aromatic water: You can prepare naturally aromatic water by adding a few cinnamon sticks and sliced fruit to a pitcher of water.
Room fragrance: You can spread a natural scent in your home by adding a few cinnamon sticks, cloves and orange slices to boiling water.
5- Health purposes
Herbal tea: Cinnamon sticks can be added to hot water and brewed while preparing cinnamon tea. It is a healthy drink alternative as it has antioxidant properties.
Sore throat: Cinnamon tea mixed with honey can be good for sore throats.
Cinnamon sticks can usually be reused after use, but if their flavor has diminished, it is best to use them before they lose their freshness.
Does Cinnamon Stick Help You Lose Weight?
Although it has not been scientifically proven that cinnamon sticks directly cause weight loss, they do have some properties that support metabolism and may indirectly contribute to the weight loss process. Here are some potential ways cinnamon sticks may help you lose weight:
1- Balancing Blood Sugar
Cinnamon is known for its ability to balance blood sugar levels. Properly controlled blood sugar can reduce sudden hunger pangs and overeating. This can help with weight control in the long run.
2- Accelerating Metabolism
Cinnamon has the potential to increase the body’s insulin sensitivity. A more efficient insulin mechanism can reduce fat storage and help your metabolism work faster, which can increase calorie burning.
3- Reducing Appetite
Cinnamon stick drinks or cinnamon tea can help suppress sweet cravings and balance appetite. Cinnamon gives the body a sweet taste without increasing calorie intake.
4- Helping the Digestive System
Cinnamon can support the digestive system. Thanks to its digestive effect, it can relieve digestive problems such as bloating. A good digestive system can positively affect weight loss.
5- Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Properties
Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants and can reduce inflammation in the body. Lower levels of inflammation can help maintain a healthy metabolism and manage weight.
How to Use?
Cinnamon water: Add a cinnamon stick to water, leave it overnight and drink it on an empty stomach in the morning.
Cinnamon tea: You can add cinnamon sticks to hot water and brew for 5-10 minutes before drinking.
Smoothies and yogurts: Add flavor to yogurt or smoothies by lightly stirring in a cinnamon stick.
Notes:
Dosage: As with all things, cinnamon should not be consumed in excessive amounts. Consuming 1-2 cinnamon sticks or 1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder per day is generally considered safe.
Health Conditions: People with diabetes, liver problems or those taking blood thinners should consult their doctor before consuming cinnamon.
In summary, cinnamon sticks can contribute to the weight loss process thanks to their metabolism-supporting and blood sugar-balancing properties, but they are not a miraculous solution on their own. They should be supported by a balanced diet and exercise.
How to Make Cinnamon Stick Tea?
Making cinnamon stick tea is very simple and delicious. The natural flavor of the cinnamon stick combines with hot water to create a pleasant drink. Here is the step by step process for making cinnamon stick tea:
Materials:
1 cinnamon stick
2 cups (approximately 500 ml) of water
Optional sweeteners: Honey, lemon, cloves, ginger (optional)
How to Make Cinnamon Tea:
Boiling Water: First boil the water. 2 cups of water will be enough.
Add the Cinnamon: Once the water boils, remove it from the heat and add the cinnamon stick. Optionally, you can add a few slices of fresh ginger or 2-3 cloves.
Brewing: Leave the cinnamon stick to steep in hot water for 10-15 minutes. During this time, the aroma of the cinnamon will be transferred into the water.
Sweeten (Optional): Once the brewing process is complete, remove the stem and optionally add 1 teaspoon of honey or a few drops of lemon juice. If you want a sweeter tea, you can opt for honey.
Service: You can serve your tea while it is hot.
Clue:
If you want the tea to have a stronger aroma, you can leave the cinnamon in the water for a longer time.
You can also use the cinnamon stick a second time, but the flavor may not be as intense as the first brew.
When to Drink Cinnamon Tea?
To speed up metabolism on an empty stomach in the morning,
To facilitate digestion after meals,
You can consume it during the day to relieve cold or flu symptoms.
Cinnamon stick tea can be easily drunk during the day as a metabolism-boosting and pleasantly aromatic beverage.