Warning: Popular Spice May Interfere with Medications and Harm Your Health - Jordan News
In a surprising twist for lovers of Eastern flavors, a new scientific study from the University of Mississippi has revealed that cinnamon, widely praised for its health benefits, may negatively affect the effectiveness of certain prescribed medications. اضافة اعلان According to researchers, cinnamaldehyde—the main compound in cinnamon—can activate receptors in the body that speed up the breakdown of medications, reducing their therapeutic impact. A Little Is Fine—But Caution Is Key While small amounts of cinnamon—like a sprinkle on your coffee—aren't considered dangerous, the study warns against high doses, especially when taken as dietary supplements without medical supervision, as reported by the New York Post. 'Overuse of cinnamon supplements can push the body to metabolize medications too quickly, reducing their therapeutic benefit significantly,' said Dr. Shabana Khan, lead researcher of the study. Cassia vs. True Cinnamon Not all cinnamon is the same. Cinnamon oil, used in flavorings and personal care, poses little risk. Cassia cinnamon—the common, cheaper type sold in stores—contains coumarin, a compound known to thin the blood and potentially dangerous in large quantities. 'True cinnamon from Sri Lanka is safer, as it contains much lower levels of coumarin,' said Dr. Amir Chitepalli, Deputy Director of the National Center for Natural Products Research. 'It's a better option for people taking blood thinners.' Special Warning for People with Chronic Conditions The study recommends extra caution for individuals with chronic illnesses such as: Diabetes Hypertension Obesity Cancer Asthma Depression 'The best advice is to consult your doctor before combining any supplement with medications,' Dr. Khan emphasized. 'Just because it's natural doesn't mean it's safe.' Final Takeaway
While cinnamon still holds valuable health benefits when consumed in moderation, this study highlights the importance of medical awareness and caution even with the most common natural ingredients.
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Jordan News
30-04-2025
- Jordan News
Warning: Popular Spice May Interfere with Medications and Harm Your Health - Jordan News
In a surprising twist for lovers of Eastern flavors, a new scientific study from the University of Mississippi has revealed that cinnamon, widely praised for its health benefits, may negatively affect the effectiveness of certain prescribed medications. اضافة اعلان According to researchers, cinnamaldehyde—the main compound in cinnamon—can activate receptors in the body that speed up the breakdown of medications, reducing their therapeutic impact. A Little Is Fine—But Caution Is Key While small amounts of cinnamon—like a sprinkle on your coffee—aren't considered dangerous, the study warns against high doses, especially when taken as dietary supplements without medical supervision, as reported by the New York Post. 'Overuse of cinnamon supplements can push the body to metabolize medications too quickly, reducing their therapeutic benefit significantly,' said Dr. Shabana Khan, lead researcher of the study. Cassia vs. True Cinnamon Not all cinnamon is the same. Cinnamon oil, used in flavorings and personal care, poses little risk. Cassia cinnamon—the common, cheaper type sold in stores—contains coumarin, a compound known to thin the blood and potentially dangerous in large quantities. 'True cinnamon from Sri Lanka is safer, as it contains much lower levels of coumarin,' said Dr. Amir Chitepalli, Deputy Director of the National Center for Natural Products Research. 'It's a better option for people taking blood thinners.' Special Warning for People with Chronic Conditions The study recommends extra caution for individuals with chronic illnesses such as: Diabetes Hypertension Obesity Cancer Asthma Depression 'The best advice is to consult your doctor before combining any supplement with medications,' Dr. Khan emphasized. 'Just because it's natural doesn't mean it's safe.' Final Takeaway While cinnamon still holds valuable health benefits when consumed in moderation, this study highlights the importance of medical awareness and caution even with the most common natural ingredients.
Jordan News
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Eye Problems Indicate Dementia Risk Before Symptoms Appear - Jordan News
Researchers have found that subtle changes in the blood vessels of the eye may serve as a window through which we can predict the likelihood of dementia years before traditional symptoms manifest. اضافة اعلان These groundbreaking results, published in the journal Alzheimer's Disease, could drastically change early detection methods for this devastating disease. This discovery is led by a research team from the University of Otago, which analyzed data from thousands of eye exams as part of a long-term New Zealand study. The researchers identified three specific changes in the eye that are closely linked to an increased risk of dementia: narrowing of the small arteries (arterioles), widening of the small veins (venules), and thinning of the nerve fiber layer in the retina. These subtle changes could appear even before any other signs of cognitive decline. Dr. Ashley Barrett-Young, the lead researcher in the study, explains: "The retina is a direct extension of the central nervous system, and what we see in it actually reflects what is happening in the brain." She adds, "The tiny blood vessels in the eye give us a precise image of the health of the blood vessels in the brain, making them a unique biological marker." This discovery comes at a time when our understanding of dementia is undergoing a revolution. Previous studies have shown that vision sensitivity tests can predict dementia up to 12 years before diagnosis. What's new here is the potential for early detection through a simple, non-invasive eye exam, which could become routine in eye doctors' clinics. Despite these promising results, researchers caution that we are still in the early stages of this scientific path. Barrett-Young says, "We can't currently predict an individual's risk just by looking at an eye scan, but we are working on developing artificial intelligence algorithms that may make this possible in the near future." (New York Post)
Jordan News
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"Kunafa".. The Queen of Arabic Ramadan Sweets - Jordan News
"Kunafa".. The Queen of Arabic Ramadan Sweets Kunafa is often considered the "dessert of celebrations," meticulously crafted by sweet shops and enthusiastically prepared by homemakers. It is one of the most famous Eastern sweets and holds a special place during Ramadan across many Arab countries. اضافة اعلان There are multiple stories behind the creation of this dish, which is present at celebrations and events throughout the year, especially in winter and during the blessed month of Ramadan. The body requires replenishment of the calories and energy lost throughout the day, and Kunafa is an excellent source, packed with energy-boosting ingredients like sugar, ghee, cheese, and nuts. Kunafa can be prepared in various ways, depending on personal preference, and some of the most popular types include: Soft Kunafa: Made from fine Kunafa dough, typically filled with cheese or cream. Coarse Kunafa: Made from long strands of Kunafa dough, it is crispier than the soft variety and is usually filled with cheese. Stuffed Kunafa: Can be stuffed with nuts, cream, or chocolate. Nablusi Kunafa: Famous for its filling of Akawi cheese and its distinctive orange surface. Despite its delicious taste, Kunafa should be eaten with caution due to its high-calorie content. It is also a source of saturated fats, cholesterol, and sugar. Overeating it can lead to an increase in blood sugar, cholesterol levels, as well as obesity and tooth decay. A small piece of Kunafa (100 grams) can provide approximately 450 calories. Healthy Kunafa: Yes, Kunafa can be made healthier. The following modifications can make it more nutritious: Replace the sugar-based syrup with honey. Use sugar-free syrup, sweetened with Stevia extract, which is used as a natural sweetener in many parts of South America and can be found in syrup and tablet forms at pharmacies. Opt for goat cheese instead of other types of cheese, as it is lower in fat. Substitute butter or ghee with canola oil (vegetable oil), which is widely available in markets. It is also recommended to limit consumption to no more than one piece per day, with a size no larger than half the palm of your hand. Homemade Kunafa Recipe: Ingredients: ½ kg coarse or fine Kunafa dough. ½ cup melted butter or ghee. 1 teaspoon orange food coloring (optional). For the Cheese Filling: 2 cups Akawi cheese or Mozzarella cheese (soaked in cold water to remove salt). ½ cup Cream cheese (optional for a creamier taste). 1 teaspoon Rosewater or Vanilla extract (optional). For the Syrup (Sharbat): 1 cup sugar. ½ cup water. Juice of half a lemon. 1 teaspoon Rosewater or Vanilla extract (optional). Preparation: Prepare the Syrup (Sharbat): In a medium pot, combine the sugar and water, and bring to a boil. Add lemon juice and allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat. Add rosewater (if using) and let it cool completely. Prepare the Kunafa: Break the Kunafa dough into small pieces. Add the melted butter and powdered sugar, and mix well until the dough fully absorbs the butter. In a greased baking tray, spread half of the Kunafa dough mixture, pressing it down with your hand or a cup. Evenly spread the cheese mixture over the dough, leaving some space at the edges to prevent spillage during baking. Add another layer of Kunafa dough, pressing gently to ensure it's packed. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the Kunafa for 30 minutes or until it turns golden brown. The Final Touch: Once the Kunafa is out of the oven, pour the cold syrup over it and let it absorb the syrup for a few minutes. Garnish with crushed pistachios. Enjoy this traditional dessert with family and friends during Ramadan or any special occasion!
