Super Food Friday: Cinnamon

    We've all used it in baking, especially lately with the pumpkin craze. And why not? It adds a nice taste. But what if I told you that some research considers it to be a super food? And not just a super food, but a super food for kids! 
    There is research that shows cinnamon helps to regulate blood sugar. How does this relate to the kiddos? Does the phrase 'mid-morning meltdown' ring any bells? By finding ways to spice up their breakfast, it could help to avoid any mid-morning energy crashes which often translate into meltdowns. 
    A study was also done proving the effects of simply smelling cinnamon. The cinnamon aroma boosts cognitive function and memory. Cinnamon is also a good source manganese, dietary fiber, iron and calcium. These are simply the benefits for children--there are plenty more that will be explored when we do the Super Foods for adults. 

Breakfast

• Try sprinkling it over cold cereal. I decided to sprinkle it over plain Cheerios with some honey for my toddler-- to simulate Apple Cinnamon Cheerios, minus the extra sugar! For my preschooler, I sprinkled cinnamon over her Rice Chex with a little honey-- this to simulate the Cinnamon Toast Crunch she is allowed only on the weekends, minus the extra sugar! 
• Add cinnamon to your morning oatmeal. Why not add in raisins (or dried fruit of your choice) and a little brown sugar? Yum!
• Having pancakes for breakfast? Add cinnamon to the batter! Or make a buttery cinnamon topping!
• Add to plain yogurt.
• Cinnamon would be a good addition to your granola too!
• If you are having french toast, add cinnamon to the eggs! I don't think I've ever made it without adding lots of cinnamon! It makes it delicious!

What do you have for breakfast? Any other ideas where cinnamon could be added?




*Note: As with all things, the key is moderation. Too much of a good thing can still turn out with harmful effects. Please don't go overboard with the cinnamon and overindulge! Remember folks, moderation.