Cinnamon is a versatile medicinal plant that has various health benefits. Though it is beneficial for adults, the safety and benefits of cinnamon for babies should be considered before including it in their diet. The bark of the cinnamon tree is the most commonly used part and is infused into many sweet and savory dishes as a spice. However, almost all of its parts, including the flowers, leaves, and roots, are edible and have therapeutic value. Read this post to understand more about the safety, benefits, and adverse effects of cinnamon on babies and how to include it in their diet.
Is Cinnamon Safe For Babies?
The U.S Food and Drug Administration considers cinnamon as “Generally Recognized As Safe” (GRAS) for consumption among babies (1). Anecdotal evidence suggests that one teaspoon of cinnamon powder a day should be safe to consume for babies who are at least six months old.
When Can Babies Have Cinnamon?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using cinnamon for babies once they are six months of age (2). If you wish to introduce cinnamon before the age of six months, then consult your pediatrician.
Health Benefits Of Cinnamon For Babies
Several studies in animals and humans demonstrate that cinnamon can be helpful in boosting cognitive function (3) (4). Below are some probable health benefits that cinnamon can provide to babies. A research study showed that the aqueous extract of the cinnamon spice contains cinnamaldehyde that has been attributed to antioxidant properties (5). The use of cinnamon has also been attributed to the treatment of reduced appetite, diarrhea, and vomiting. However, its safety and efficacy as a treatment for any health problem in babies are not well-researched. It is essential to use caution while using the spice for the baby, especially if the baby is prone to allergies.
Cinnamon Allergy In Babies
Cinnamon allergy is possible, but it is not common. A basic non-allergic reaction to cinnamon is a local rash at the spot where cinnamon touches the skin. In general, the allergic antibody-mediated reactions in the case of cinnamon are believed to be very rare. Besides, oral consumption is known to show non-allergic reactions consistent with “intolerances” (14). A few cases of cinnamon-induced mucosal contact reactions have been documented. The signs and symptoms of oral contact allergic reaction to cinnamon may mimic other common oral disorders, which makes its diagnosis quite difficult (15). Therefore, it is crucial that you be aware of the products which might contain cinnamon, especially if your baby is diagnosed with cinnamon allergy. Below are some basic symptoms that you might observe due to allergy (16).
Runny nose Difficulty in breathing or shortness of breath Red, sore, and watery eyes Vomiting or nausea Swelling of the lips or tongue
Ways To Include Cinnamon In Your Baby’s Diet
You can add cinnamon to your baby’s diet in various forms. It can be sprinkled over to a puree or breakfast cereal, such as oatmeal. Below are some foods in which you can add cinnamon for flavor. Cinnamon can also be added to foods such as eggs and fish once your baby begins to eat them.
Selection And Storage Of Cinnamon
Below are some points to keep in mind while buying and later storing the cinnamon at home (17).
True cinnamon or Ceylon cinnamon or Mexican cinnamon Cassia cinnamon or Chinese cinnamon
According to a few studies, cassia cinnamon can cause exposure to coumarin, a highly hepatotoxic and carcinogenic element found in cassia cinnamon (19). Therefore, it is wise to buy certified true cinnamon for babies.
