Cinnamon also has health benefits and has been found to have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.
This article will list the potential health benefits of cinnamon and explain how to safely incorporate it into your baby’s diet.
Health Benefits of Cinnamon
Although the research is relatively limited, cinnamon seems to have some significant health benefits. It may protect against infection because of its antimicrobial properties. It has also been found to reduce inflammation in the body, which could protect against several chronic diseases.
Cinnamon oil has been proven to help protect the body against infection from the following types of bacteria:
Escherichia coli (E. coli)Listeria monocytogenesBacillusEnterococcus faecalisSalmonella typhimuriumPseudomonas aeruginosaYersinia enterocoliticaStaphylococcus aureus
At What Age Can Babies Have Cinnamon?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends incorporating solid foods into your baby’s diet at around 6 months old. It’s important for your baby to show signs of being ready for solid food before giving it to them. Signs include the ability to hold their head up on their own and showing an interest in food.
Diabetes: Cinnamon may help to regulate glucose levels in the blood. Dementia: Cinnamon contains phytochemicals that may boost the brain’s ability to use glucose and perform better. Heart disease: Components of cinnamon may have cardioprotective properties because they reduce inflammation in the body. Cancer: Cinnamon may protect against certain types of cancer because of its antimicrobial and antioxidant effects.
It’s best to go slow with new foods for your baby and introduce one new food every three to five days. This helps to identify any potential allergens or food sensitivities.
Once you have determined that your baby can safely tolerate a given food, feel free to add a dash of cinnamon to it. You may find that your baby enjoys the extra flavor. If they reject the new flavor, simply try again in a few days.
While rare, it is possible to ingest too much cinnamon. Cinnamon contains coumarins, a chemical found in many plant products that can be toxic in high doses. Experts recommend limiting cinnamon use to less than 0.1 milligrams per kilogram of body weight to avoid toxicity. It’s encouraging to know that you or your child would have to ingest a very large amount of cinnamon to experience any ill effects.
What Foods Contain Cinnamon?
Cinnamon can be found in some processed and prepackaged foods, so adding any additional spice to these products is not necessary. Always read food labels if you are unsure. Examples of foods that may contain cinnamon include:
CerealInstant oatmealPureed baby foodCandyChewing gum
Signs of a Cinnamon Allergy in Babies
A cinnamon allergy is rare but possible. Fortunately, cinnamon is not a common allergenic food. Foods that cause about 90% of all food allergies are:
Ceylon (Mexican) cinnamonIndonesian cinnamonVietnamese cinnamonCassia (Chinese) cinnamon
Ceylon cinnamon is a great choice for young palates. It is mildly sweet and not bold. Look for organic Ceylon cinnamon that has a tan-brown color. Cinnamon with more of a red hue usually has a more intense flavor.
Milk Eggs Wheat Soy Tree nuts Peanuts Fish Shellfish
It is helpful to be aware of the classic signs of a food allergy or intolerance. Possible symptoms of a food allergy include:
Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea Stomach cramps Irritability and crying Swelling and hives Eczema patches Trouble breathing
Ways to Add Cinnamon to Your Baby’s Diet
Cinnamon adds a mildly sweet flavor to food, so feel free to try it on a number of foods that your baby is already eating. Cinnamon can improve the flavor of several baby foods, including:
Baby cerealOatmealApplesPearsSweet potatoesCarrotsSquash Yogurt
Summary
Cinnamon is a common spice found in most kitchens. It adds a mild, sweet flavor to foods and can be safely enjoyed by most babies. Start by adding a small dash of cinnamon to a food that you know your baby tolerates. Cinnamon allergies are rare but possible. Signs of a potential food allergy include vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, hives, eczema, and trouble breathing.
A Word From Verywell
If you have been curious about adding more flavor to your little one’s diet, cinnamon may be a great place to start. It is a sweet, mild spice that is well-tolerated by most adults, children, and babies. If you are nervous about adding spices to your child’s diet, know that there is no rush. Talk with your healthcare provider or pediatrician and only go as fast as you are comfortable.
