Warning: Potential Liver Risks from Overconsumption of Cassia Cinnamon
Harmful Spices Threatening Liver Health and Precautions to Take
From its glorified health benefits to its medicinal properties, cassia cinnamon has made a name for itself. But unbeknownst to many, it packs a hidden punch that could harm your liver if not handled with care.
Clocking in as one of the most popular types of cinnamon, cassia cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia) might have you believing that more is merrier. Far from it. This spice contains a natural compound called coumarin, which can be detrimental to your liver if ingested in large quantities regularly.
So, what's the damage? Here's a lowdown:
- Liver damage: Coumarin can cause direct damage to your liver tissue if you overdo it.
- Severe inflammation: Overindulge, and you could end up with liver inflammation so severe it becomes toxic.
- Chronic liver stress: If you consume high amounts of cassia cinnamon regularly, your liver might suffer from chronic stress due to the constant processing of coumarin.
Savoring Cassia Cinnamon Safely
According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), the maximum tolerable daily coumarin intake is 0.1 mg per kg of body weight. A simple calculation often reveals that going for a second spoonful of cassia cinnamon could drive you beyond this limit, posing serious risks to your liver.
Alternatively, you might want to consider Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum), a.k.a. " true cinnamon," which boasts significantly lower coumarin levels, making it the safer bet.
Recommendations:
- Room for error: Stay within 1 teaspoon's worth daily to keep your coumarin exposure in check.
- Ask the expert: If you have any existing liver issues, consult a healthcare provider before use.
- Label scrutiny: Opt for brands boasting minimal additives for accurate dosing.
- Limit supplement use: Dietary amounts are less risky than concentrated supplements.
- Quash blood-thinning risks: Those on anticoagulant medication should avoid combining cassia cinnamon to avoid bleeding complications.
- While cassia cinnamon is often associated with numerous health benefits and medicinal properties, it can potentially harm your liver if overconsumed.
- One of the hidden risks of cassia cinnamon is the natural compound called coumarin, which can cause direct liver damage with excessive consumption.
- Chronic and severe liver inflammation is a potential consequence of overindulging in cassia cinnamon, leading to toxic conditions.
- The European Food Safety Authority recommends a maximum daily coumarin intake of 0.1 mg per kilogram of body weight to minimize potential liver risks.
- For a safer alternative, consider Ceylon cinnamon, which has significantly lower coumarin levels and poses lesser risks to your liver.
- Those with existing liver issues, taking anticoagulant medication, or using supplements should exercise caution and consult healthcare providers before consuming cassia cinnamon.
