Content
- Cinnamon nutritional composition
- Can a dog eat cinnamon?
- Anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties
- Antioxidant properties
- Anti-cancer properties
- digestive properties
- Cardioprotective and hypoglycemic properties
- Benefits of Cinnamon for Dogs and Indications
- Cinnamon Side Effects in Dogs
- Cinnamon dosage for dogs
- How to give cinnamon to a dog?
THE cinnamon that we normally use, in powder or stick, to give flavor and aroma to our preparations, is a species obtained from the inner bark of an evergreen tree called Cinnamonum verum, originally from the East, being cultivated mainly in Sri Lanka, India and South Asia. This plant adapts perfectly to hot and humid climates, with sandy loam soil with excellent drainage.
But after all, dog can eat cinnamon or is it bad? For many years it was believed that cinnamon could be harmful to pets and therefore should be avoided in their diet. However, the advancement of veterinary medicine allows us to know many interesting properties of this ingredient in the health of our furry friend. Therefore, in this article by Animal Expert, we invite you to learn more about benefits of cinnamon for dogs: YES, dog can eat cinnamon!
Cinnamon nutritional composition
Before explaining the benefits of cinnamon to dogs, it is important that you know the nutritional composition of this species to better understand its action in the organism. 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
- Carbohydrates: 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 (thiamine): 0.022 mg
- Vitamin B2 (riboflavin): 0.041 mg
- Vitamin B3 (niacin or vitamin PP): 1,332 mg
- Vitamin B6: 0.158 mg
Can a dog eat cinnamon?
The benefits of cinnamon are widely recognized by popular wisdom. However, for some time now the positive impact of its properties on humans and dogs has been proven by numerous scientific studies. Thus, we conclude that, if properly managed, Cinnamon is not toxic to dogs, and we can offer it without any problems. Below, we offer a summary of the main beneficial properties of cinnamon.
Anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties
the cinnamon is rich in eugenol, an oily and aromatic substance that shows a remarkable anti-inflammatory and antiseptic action. Therefore, its compounds are widely used by the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries, in the manufacture of analgesic, antibacterial and antiseptic medicines, creams and ointments. However, 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 analgesic, being effective in relieving discomfort from menstrual cramps, bruises, or chronic inflammatory processes such as arthritis. [1]
In addition, eugenol is also considered a natural insecticide, so cinnamon and clove essential oils are often used in the manufacture of household 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 oxidation of LDL cholesterol (the bad cholesterol) and prevents the adhesion of lipid and insoluble plaques to the inner walls of the arteries. [2]
Arteriosclerosis (a major cause of cardiovascular disease and stroke) begins with the oxidation of LDL cholesterol molecules, which leads to the buildup of lipid plaque in the arteries. These plaques end up being obstacles to blood circulation, impairing oxygenation of the body's tissues.Therefore, regular consumption of cinnamon, whether through diet or supplements, is indicated to prevent arteriosclerosis and reduce the risk of myocardial infarction, cardiovascular accidents and (stroke) stroke.
Anti-cancer properties
Due to its high content of antioxidant compounds, cinnamon offers important anti-cancer properties, being able to protect DNA from oxidative stress and prevent damage to cells. In addition, a study published by the US Department of Agriculture highlighted the anti-cancer effects of regular use of cinnamon. According to the results obtained in this research, cinnamon-based supplements would be recommended to stop the proliferation and kill abnormal cells in leukemia and lymphoma. [3]
digestive properties
Cinnamon tea was formerly used as a potent stomach tonic in many cultures, as its consumption improved digestion and relieved stomach discomfort. Furthermore, due to its high fiber content and its anti-inflammatory action, cinnamon helps improve intestinal transit, preventing numerous gastrointestinal disorders, such as gas, vomiting and constipation.
Cardioprotective and hypoglycemic properties
Recently, the American Heart Association published the 2017 volume of its Scientific Sections on Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology / Peripheral Vascular Disease. It shows some preliminary studies that prove that the regular consumption of cinnamon has a cardio-protective and hypoglycemic effect. In one of the experiments, the same high-fat diet was offered to two groups of rats, but only one of the groups received regular cinnamon-based supplements. After 12 weeks, it was found that the animals that ingested the cinnamon decreased their body weight and the concentration of fat in the abdominal region. Furthermore, their clinical analyzes showed a remarkable lowering glucose levels, cholesterol and insulin in the bloodstream. Likewise, scientists have also confirmed the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action of cinnamon.
Therefore, cinnamon is often considered a powerful natural remedy to fight and prevent diabetes symptoms, cardiovascular problems and dementia. Thus, we found that cinnamon is good for diabetic dogs.
Benefits of Cinnamon for Dogs and Indications
After checking out the amazing properties of cinnamon, lets review how they affect dogs, exposing the benefits of cinnamon for dogs:
- Preventing degenerative diseases: Cinnamon's antioxidant properties are effective in fighting free radicals and cell damage, so its consumption is beneficial in preventing cancer, degenerative and cardiovascular diseases.
- Alleviate Arthritis Symptoms: the anti-inflammatory and antiseptic action of eugenol present in cinnamon is especially opportune to alleviate the pain of arthritis and combat the manifestations of various inflammatory and infectious processes.
- Strengthen the immune system: Cinnamon is rich in essential nutrients for strengthening immunity, such as vitamins A and C, fiber, iron and calcium. As we know, an immunologically strong animal is less vulnerable to all kinds of pathologies. Furthermore, as this condiment helps to lose weight and reduce the concentration of abdominal fat, it can also be consumed by overweight or obese patients. In this sense, don't miss our article on "How to prevent obesity in dogs?".
- Improve stamina: Cinnamon's high calcium content is beneficial to strengthen the bone structure of dogs and increase their physical endurance. In malnourished animals, controlled consumption can help to supplement nutritional deficiencies. In addition, older dogs can be especially benefited as they suffer a natural loss of muscle and bone mass. Check out the article on "Basic care for older dogs", especially if your furry friend has reached old age.
- Combat gastrointestinal disorders: The fiber contributed by cinnamon favors intestinal transit and acts as a natural remedy for constipation in dogs. The spice also helps to eliminate gas and prevent vomiting, as well as relieve stomach discomfort.
- Assist in the treatment and prevention of diabetes: the phytochemicals present in cinnamon can prevent numerous risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome, such as hyperglycemia, obesity and diabetes [4].
- stimulate circulation: Cinnamon is rich in bioflavonoids (also known as vitamin P), which have an anticoagulant action. Used in moderate doses, it stimulates circulation and prevents the formation of clots and some associated conditions, such as thrombosis and certain vascular problems. However, in excessive doses, it can cause bleeding and even internal bleeding.
Cinnamon Side Effects in Dogs
As we have seen, when consumed in moderate doses, cinnamon offers numerous benefits for dogs and humans alike. However, exaggerated doses increase the risk of bleeding and internal bleeding. On the other hand, as it is rich in fiber, cinnamon is also rich in fiber. can cause diarrhea if consumed in excess. Also, an overdose of eugenol usually causes discomfort, vomiting and drowsiness.
Cinnamon dosage for dogs
Although it is recommended to respect a limit of ½ teaspoon of cinnamon per day, there is no specific dosage for all dogs. The dose must be adequate according to the purpose of consumption, weight, size and health 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 can guide you on the amount needed and the best way to administer it, in order to have a positive impact on your partner's health.
How to give cinnamon to a dog?
The recommended dose of cinnamon for dogs can be given by preparing a natural cinnamon tea and allowing the animal to drink hot or cold, or mixing cinnamon powder with other foods, such as plain yogurt (no sugar).