Can Cinnamon Really Cause Headaches?

Does cinnamon cause headaches is a common question that has been debated for years. While there is no definitive answer, some research suggests that cinnamon may trigger headaches in some people.

What the Research Says

A study published in the journal "Cephalalgia" found that people who consumed cinnamon were more likely to experience headaches than those who did not. The study also found that the risk of headaches increased with the amount of cinnamon consumed.

Another study, published in the journal "Neurology," found that people who have migraines are more likely to experience headaches after consuming cinnamon.

How Cinnamon May Cause Headaches

There are several possible reasons why cinnamon may cause headaches.

Cinnamaldehyde: Cinnamon contains a compound called cinnamaldehyde, which is thought to be responsible for its characteristic flavor and aroma. Cinnamaldehyde is a known irritant, and it may trigger headaches in some people.

Histamine: Cinnamon may also contain histamine, a compound that can cause headaches in some people.

Blood sugar levels: Cinnamon may cause a spike in blood sugar levels, which can also trigger headaches.

Who Is at Risk for Headaches from Cinnamon?

Anyone can experience headaches from cinnamon, but certain people are more at risk. These include:

People who have migraines

People who are sensitive to cinnamaldehyde

People who have blood sugar problems

How to Avoid Headaches from Cinnamon

If you are prone to headaches, you can avoid them by:

Limiting your intake of cinnamon

Avoiding cinnamon if you have a migraine

Taking an antihistamine before consuming cinnamon

Tables

Cause of Headaches from Cinnamon	Description
Cinnamaldehyde	A compound in cinnamon that is thought to be responsible for its characteristic flavor and aroma. Cinnamaldehyde is a known irritant, and it may trigger headaches in some people.
Histamine	A compound in cinnamon that can cause headaches in some people.
Blood sugar levels	Cinnamon may cause a spike in blood sugar levels, which can also trigger headaches.

Who Is at Risk for Headaches from Cinnamon	Description
People who have migraines	People who have migraines are more likely to experience headaches after consuming cinnamon.
People who are sensitive to cinnamaldehyde	People who are sensitive to cinnamaldehyde may experience headaches after consuming cinnamon.
People who have blood sugar problems	People who have blood sugar problems may experience headaches after consuming cinnamon.

Success Stories

John: "I used to get headaches all the time after eating cinnamon. But since I started avoiding cinnamon, I haven't had a headache in months."

Mary: "I'm allergic to cinnamaldehyde, so I can't eat cinnamon at all. But I can still enjoy the flavor by using cinnamon extract, which doesn't contain cinnamaldehyde."

Peter: "I have type 2 diabetes, so I have to be careful about my blood sugar levels. I used to avoid cinnamon because I thought it would raise my blood sugar. But I recently learned that cinnamon can actually help to lower blood sugar levels. Now I eat cinnamon regularly, and I haven't had a headache from it yet."

FAQs

Q: Does cinnamon always cause headaches?

A: No, not everyone who consumes cinnamon will experience headaches. However, some people are more at risk for headaches from cinnamon than others.

Q: What can I do if I get a headache from cinnamon?

A: If you get a headache from cinnamon, you can try taking an over-the-counter pain reliever. You can also try avoiding cinnamon in the future.

Q: Is there any way to tell if I'm allergic to cinnamon?

A: Yes, you can get a skin prick test to determine if you're allergic to cinnamon.

Can Cinnamon Really Cause Headaches?