The combination of two favorite morning foods—cinnamon and coffee—may be the secret to improving your brain health. While each of these ingredients has well-documented health benefits, recent studies suggest that combining them can create a powerful combination for cognitive function.

The Cognitive Power of Coffee
Coffee has long been a favorite beverage to start the day, but its benefits go beyond just a morning energy boost. Coffee is incredibly beneficial for brain health. The caffeine in coffee acts as a stimulant, increasing alertness, improving concentration, and strengthening short-term memory.

In addition to its stimulant effects, coffee is also a rich source of antioxidants. These compounds help protect brain cells from oxidative stress, a process linked to the development of degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Cinnamon
While coffee is impressive on its own, combining it with cinnamon can take its cognitive benefits to the next level. Cinnamon is not just an ordinary spice – it is full of compounds that can help regulate blood sugar levels, which is a key factor in maintaining cognitive function throughout the day. Additionally, cinnamon is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties, which contribute to long-term brain health.

A review of studies published in 2024 in the journal Nutritional Neuroscience found that cinnamon significantly improves cognitive functions, such as learning and memory. Preliminary animal studies also suggest that cinnamon may slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson’s disease. While more human research is needed, adding cinnamon to your coffee is a safe and easy way to boost your brain’s defenses.

For those looking to maximize the brain health benefits of coffee, adding cinnamon is just the beginning. Here are a few additional tips to ensure your daily beverage is as beneficial to your cognitive function as possible.

Avoid artificial sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners may seem like a convenient way to enjoy a sweet coffee without the calories, but they may do more harm than good. Some artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame and sucralose, can negatively impact gut bacteria. Since the gut-brain axis plays a key role in brain health, disrupting this balance can indirectly harm cognitive function.

Avoid creamers and sweetened toppings
Flavored creamers may enhance the taste of your coffee, but they are often high in added sugars and unhealthy fats. These ingredients can cause inflammation and increase the risk of cognitive decline over time. Choosing healthier alternatives, such as unsweetened plant-based milk or small amounts of regular milk, may be a better choice.

Simplicity is key

The simpler your coffee, the better for your brain. Reduce added sugars and use natural sweeteners in small amounts or skip them altogether. Your taste buds can adjust to lower sugar levels in just a few days, allowing you to enjoy the natural flavor of cinnamon-flavored coffee.