The cinnamon that we commonly use, in powder or as a stick, to add flavor and aroma to our preparations is a species obtained from the inner bark of an evergreen tree called cinnamon, which is native to the East, being cultivated mainly in Sri Lanka, India and South Asia. This plant adapts optimally to hot and humid climates, with sandy loam soils with excellent drainage.
For many years, it has been believed that cinnamon could be harmful to pets, so it should be avoided in their diet. However, the progress of veterinary medicine has allowed us to verify many interesting properties of this ingredient for the he alth of our furry ones. Therefore, in this article on our site, we invite you to learn more about the benefits of cinnamon for dogs
Nutritional composition of cinnamon
Before explaining the benefits of cinnamon for dogs, we think it is important that you know the nutritional composition of this spice to better understand its action in the body. According to the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) database, 100 grams of cinnamon contain the following nutrients:
- Energy: 247 kcal
- Water: 10.58 g
- Protein: 3.99 g
- Total Fat: 1.24 g
- Carbs: 80.59 g
- Total sugars: 2.17 g
- Total fiber: 53.1 g
- Calcium: 1002 mg
- Iron: 8.32 mg
- Magnesium: 60 mg
- Manganese: 16.46 mg
- Phosphorus: 64 mg
- Potassium: 413 mg
- Sodium: 10 mg
- Zinc: 1.82 mg
- Vitamin A: 15 μg
- Vitamin C: 3.8 mg
- Vitamin E: 2.32 mg
- Vitamin K: 31.2 μg
- Vitamin B1 (thiamin): 0.022 mg
- Vitamin B2 (riboflavin): 0.041 mg
- Vitamin B3 (niacin or vitamin PP): 1,332 mg
- Vitamin B6: 0.158 mg
Is cinnamon good for dogs?
The benefits of cinnamon are widely recognized by popular wisdom. But for some time now, the positive impact of its properties for humans and dogs has been proven by numerous scientific studies. In this way, we can conclude that cinnamon is not toxic to dogs if it is administered properly, so we can offer it to them without problems. Below, we offer you a summary of the main beneficial properties of cinnamon
Anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties
Cinnamon is rich in eugenol, an oily and aromatic substance that has a notable anti-inflammatory and antiseptic action. For this reason, its compounds are widely used by the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries in the preparation of medicines, analgesic, antibacterial and antiseptic creams and ointments. But eugenol can also be found in high concentrations in natural sources such as cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, allspice, basil, bay leaf, etc.
These anti-inflammatory properties also make cinnamon an excellent muscle relaxant and pain reliever, being effective in relieving period discomfort cramps, bruises, or chronic inflammatory processes, such as arthritis[1]
In addition, eugenol is also considered a natural insecticide, which is why the essential oils of cinnamon and clove are often used in the manufacture of homemade repellents against mosquitoes and other insects.
Antioxidant properties
Cinnamon contains natural antioxidants such as vitamin C and flavonoids, for example. The action of these compounds in the body inhibits the oxidation of LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) and prevents the adhesion of lipid and insoluble plaques on the internal walls of arteries[2]
Arteriosclerosis (one of the main causes of cardiovascular diseases and strokes), begins with the oxidation of LDL cholesterol molecules, which leads to the accumulation of lipid plaques in the arteries. These plaques end up being obstacles to blood circulation, damaging the oxygenation of body tissues. Therefore, regular consumption of cinnamon, either through the diet or supplements, is indicated to prevent arteriosclerosis and reduce the risk of myocardial infarction, cardiovascular accidents (CVA) and strokes.
Anticancer properties
Due to its high content of antioxidant compounds, cinnamon offers important anticancer properties, being able to protect DNA from oxidative stress and prevent cell damage. Furthermore, a study published by the United States Department of Agriculture has highlighted the anti-cancer effects of regular consumption of cinnamon. According to the results obtained in this research, cinnamon-based supplements would be recommended to stop proliferation and kill abnormal cells in leukemia and lymphoma[3]
Digestive Properties
Many years ago, cinnamon tea was used as a powerful stomach tonic by many cultures, since its consumption improved digestion and relieved stomach discomfort. In addition, due to its high fiber content and its anti-inflammatory action, cinnamon helps to improve intestinal transit, prevent numerous gastrointestinal disorders, such as gas, vomiting and constipation.
Cardioprotective and hypoglycaemic properties
Recently, the American Heart Association has published the 2017 volume of its Scientific Sections on Atherosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology/Peripheral Vascular Disease. In them, he reveals some preliminary studies that have shown that regular consumption of cinnamon has a cardioprotective and hypoglycemic effect. In one of the experiments, the same high-fat diet was offered to two groups of rats, but only one received cinnamon-based supplements on a regular basis. After 12 weeks, it has been found that the animals that ate cinnamon decreased their body weight and the concentration of fat in the abdominal region. In addition, its clinical tests have shown a remarkable reduction in glucose, cholesterol and insulin levels in the bloodstream. Likewise, the scientists also confirmed again the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action of cinnamon.
Therefore, cinnamon is often considered a powerful natural remedy to combat and prevent the symptoms of diabetes, of the problems cardiovascular and dementia. In this way, we can see that cinnamon is good for diabetic dogs.
Indications and benefits of cinnamon for dogs
After verifying the remarkable properties of cinnamon, we are going to review how they affect dogs, so that we expose the benefits of cinnamon for dogs:
- Prevent degenerative diseases: Cinnamon's antioxidant properties are effective in combating free radicals and cell damage, which is why its consumption is beneficial in the prevention of cancer, degenerative and cardiovascular diseases.
- Relieve symptoms of arthritis: the anti-inflammatory and antiseptic action of eugenol present in cinnamon is especially suitable for relieving joint pain. arthritis and combat the symptoms of various inflammatory and infectious processes.
- Strengthen the immune system: Cinnamon is rich in essential nutrients for strengthening the immune system, such as vitamins A and C, fibers, iron and calcium. As we know, an immunologically strong animal is less vulnerable to all kinds of pathologies. In addition, as this spice helps lose weight and reduce the concentration of abdominal fat, it can also be consumed by overweight or obese patients. In this sense, do not miss our article on "How to avoid obesity in dogs?".
- Improving physical endurance: Cinnamon's high calcium content is beneficial for strengthening the bone structure of dogs and improving their physical resistance. In malnourished animals, its controlled consumption can help to supplement nutritional deficits. In addition, elderly dogs can be especially benefited, since they suffer a natural loss of muscle and bone mass. Review "Basic care for elderly dogs" if your furry companion has reached old age.
- Combat gastrointestinal disorders: the fibers provided by cinnamon favor intestinal transit and act as a natural remedy for constipation in dogs. The spice also helps eliminate gas and prevent vomiting, in addition to relieving stomach discomfort.
- Helps in the treatment and prevention of diabetes: the phytochemicals present in cinnamon prevent many risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome, such as hyperglycemia, obesity, and diabetes[4].
- Stimulating circulation: Cinnamon is rich in bioflavonoids (also known as vitamin P), which have an anticoagulant action. Used in moderate doses, they stimulate circulation and prevent the formation of clots and some associated conditions, such as thrombosis and certain vascular problems. But in excessive doses, they can cause bleeding and even internal bleeding.
Side Effects of Cinnamon on Dogs
As we have seen, consumed in moderate doses, cinnamon offers numerous benefits for dogs and also for humans. However, exaggerated doses increase the risk of bleeding and internal bleeding. On the other hand, as it is rich in fiber, cinnamon can also cause diarrhea if consumed in excess. In addition, an overdose of eugenol often causes malaise, vomiting, and drowsiness
Dose of cinnamon for dogs
Although it is recommended to adhere to a limit of ½ teaspoon of cinnamon per day, there is no specific dose for all dogs. The dose must be adequate depending on the purpose of consumption, weight, size and he alth status of each animal. Therefore, it is essential that you consult your veterinarian before including any supplement in your pet's diet, even if it is a natural product. The trained professional will be able to guide you on the necessary amount and the best form of administration to obtain a positive impact on the he alth of your partner.
How to give a dog cinnamon?
The recommended dose of cinnamon for dogs can be offered by preparing a natural cinnamon tea and letting the animal drink it warm or cold, or by mixing cinnamon powder with other foods, such as plain (unsweetened) yogurt.
