No Sugar, Just Spice & Everything Nice.

As autumn has arrived in Australia, I am finding that I am already resorting to that extra cup of coffee in the morning and hot cup of tea in the evening. It wouldn't be so bad if I didn't crave the cookies and chocolates that I want to consume with my tea also!So what if I told you that there is a natural "tree based" spice that could be added to your tea or coffee that could curb your cravings for sugar and suppress your appetite also? Well, the good news is that I can tell you this spice does exist. In fact, you most likely have it in your pantry right now... CINNAMON!1) Cinnamon is loaded with antioxidants that protect our bodies from damage caused by free radicals. In fact, in a recent study that compared 26 spices and their antioxidant activity, cinnamon came in as the winner. Even better than garlic and oregano!2) Cinnamon has been linked with reducing heart disease, reducing cholesterol and blood pressure.3) Cinnamon has been shown to significantly increase sensitivity to the hormone insulin which regulates your metabolism and energy use.4) Cinnamon, when correct doses are consumed, have been linked to lowering blood sugar levels.So not only does cinnamon sweeten your hot coffee or tea, it also a "miracle spice" in regards to helping our bodies to perform even better. Add cinnamon to your apples, pears, yoghurt, oats, just about anything!Like all foods, not all cinnamons are created equally though. Look out for "Ceylon Cinnamon" found in most health food stores, which is known as true cinnamon rather than the more common "Cassia Cinnamon" commonly found in supermarkets. Studies show that Ceylon is much lower in coumarin (which can be harmful in large doses) than the Cassia variety.