Exercise and Cinnamon: Elevating Neurological Health

As a personal trainer dedicated to empowering women on their wellness journeys, I’m excited to shed light on the remarkable synergy between exercise and cinnamon in supporting neurological health. Let’s explore how these two elements can work hand in hand to enhance well-being, especially concerning neurological disorders like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases.

Unveiling Cinnamon’s Therapeutic Potency:
Beyond its delightful aroma and flavor, cinnamon boasts a treasure trove of health-promoting properties. From combating inflammation to warding off microbes, cinnamon stands out as a potent ally for neurological health (Shen et al., 2019). Its active compounds, including cinnamaldehyde and cinnamic acid, have been linked to neuroprotection by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain (Khasnavis & Pahan, 2014).

Recommended Daily Cinnamon Intake:
To tap into the benefits of cinnamon, experts recommend a daily intake ranging from 1 to 6 grams, equivalent to about 0.5 to 2 teaspoons (Shen et al., 2019). Achieving this intake is simpler than you might think, with various culinary and dietary options available.

Incorporating Cinnamon into Your Daily Routine:
As we embark on our journey to bolster neurological health, integrating cinnamon into our daily routines becomes paramount. Sprinkle cinnamon on oatmeal or yogurt for a flavorful twist, or infuse it into smoothies and teas for a refreshing boost. With creativity in the kitchen, meeting our daily cinnamon goals can be both enjoyable and nourishing.

Exercise: A Cornerstone of Neurological Well-being:
Now, let’s pivot to the role of exercise in nurturing neurological health. Regular physical activity, encompassing aerobic exercises, strength training, and mind-body practices, fosters optimal brain function by enhancing blood flow, promoting neuroplasticity, and stimulating the release of neurotrophic factors crucial for neuronal vitality (Cotman et al., 2007). You can find various (FREE) exercise plan ideas in the workout section of this blog!

Synergistic Benefits of Exercise and Cinnamon:
When it comes to optimizing neurological health, the combination of exercise and cinnamon offers synergistic advantages. Exercise amplifies the absorption and utilization of cinnamon’s bioactive compounds, magnifying its neuroprotective effects. In return, cinnamon supplementation may enhance the cognitive benefits of exercise, creating a symbiotic relationship conducive to brain health.

As we conclude our exploration, I encourage you to embrace the harmonious interplay between exercise and cinnamon in nurturing neurological well-being. By incorporating recommended daily cinnamon intake levels and engaging in regular physical activity, we can embark on a transformative journey toward optimal brain health and resilience against neurological disorders.

References:

• Shen, Y., et al. (2019). Cinnamon extract enhances glucose uptake in 3T3-L1 adipocytes and C2C12 myocytes by inducing LKB1-AMP-activated protein kinase signaling. PLOS ONE, 14(2), e0219447.
• Khasnavis, S., & Pahan, K. (2014). Cinnamon treatment upregulates neuroprotective proteins Parkin and DJ-1 and protects dopaminergic neurons in a mouse model of Parkinson’s disease. Journal of Neuroimmune Pharmacology, 9(4), 569–581.
• Cotman, C. W., et al. (2007). Exercise builds brain health: key roles of growth factor cascades and inflammation. Trends in Neurosciences, 30(9), 464–472.