Health risks of consuming too much cinnamon

Read on to know how consuming too much cinnamon can impact our health!

Cinnamon is a very popular spice all over the world that is added to various desserts, soups, and curry preparations. While we all are aware of various health benefits of consuming this fragrant spice, we should also be watchful to not overconsume it as there are certain health risks associated with consuming too much cinnamon. Here is why you should consume cinnamon in a controlled amount.

Can damage the liver

Cinnamon contains coumarin that may cause liver damage and toxicity if consumed in an uncontrolled amount.

Increases the risk of cancer

Consuming too much coumarin can also result in cancerous tumors of lungs, kidney, and liver as coumarin is believed by scientists to cause DNA damage.

Cause mouth sores

Cinnamon contains cinnamaldehyde that can trigger an allergic reaction if consumed in large amounts. Cinnamaldehyde is also associated with swelling of gum or tongue, itching or burning sensation, and white mouth patches. These reactions are mostly triggered in people allergic to cinnamaldehyde.

Lower blood sugar

Cinnamon has been studied to lower the blood sugar level as this spice mimics the effect of insulin. But consuming too much cinnamon can lower your blood sugar to a dangerous level and cause hypoglycemia, particularly in people taking medication for diabetes.

Cause breathing problems

Consuming excessive ground cinnamon can result in gaging, coughing, and difficulty in breathing as cinnamaldehyde is a throat irritant, which can trigger breathing problems in people with asthma or other medical conditions.

Interact with medications

Cinnamon is safe for consumption if consumed in moderate to small amounts. But, consuming too much of it can interact with medications for heart disease, diabetes, or liver problem and can enhance their effects and side-effects.