Cinnamon

Antioxidants; studied for blood sugar, with mixed results.

Cinnamon sticks and ground cinnamon
Photo: Rens D on Unsplash
Category
Herbs & Spices
Plate rating
93/100
Glycemic index
≈0 (no carbs)
Pesticide residue
Lower

What cinnamon offers

  • Studied for blood sugar (mixed results)
  • Powerful antioxidant
  • Naturally sweet aroma
  • Anti-inflammatory

When to eat it

Morning with oatmeal or coffee.

Tip

Cassia cinnamon contains far more coumarin than Ceylon — matters if you use a lot

Pairs well with

Oatmeal · Apple · Sweet Potato

Blood sugar

Contains little or no carbohydrate, so it has almost no direct effect on blood sugar. GI values are approximate and vary with ripeness, variety and preparation. If you manage diabetes, ask your care team how this food fits your plan.

Pesticide residue & peeling

Relative residue level: Lower — a rough guide, not a lab measurement. Rinse produce under running water before eating.

More herbs & spices

TurmericCurcumin pigment, anti-inflammatory compounds under study, warm flavorHerbs & Spices
GingerHelps ease nausea, aids digestion, warming flavorHerbs & Spices
OreganoAntioxidants (carvacrol, thymol), vitamin KHerbs & Spices
BasilVitamin K, antioxidants, flavorHerbs & Spices
RosemaryAntioxidants (carnosic acid), flavorHerbs & Spices
SaffronAntioxidant pigments (crocin); studied for moodHerbs & Spices

Sources

Last reviewed October 2026. How we rate foods.

General information only, not medical advice. If you take medicine or manage a health condition, check with your doctor, pharmacist or a registered dietitian before changing your diet. Read our medical disclaimer.