Any initiative that could alleviate the obesity crisis in the U.S. would be greatly appreciated. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that over one-third of U.S. adults (36.5%) were classified as obese between 2011 and 2014. Conditions linked to obesity, such as heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers, rank among the top preventable causes of death.
Cinnamon has a long history of culinary and medicinal use, dating back to ancient Egypt. It is derived from the inner bark of the true cinnamon tree, with the outer bark being stripped from selected branches. The inner bark, which is the cinnamon layer, is then harvested. As it dries, it curls into “quills,” which can be cut into sticks or ground into powder. Today, cinnamon is commonly used in desserts, as a topping for yogurt or porridge, and as a flavoring for mulled wine or hot cocoa. In regions like Morocco and Sicily, it is also incorporated into savory dishes.
Over the years, cinnamon has been the subject of numerous studies investigating its medicinal properties. Research has highlighted various effects, including anti-microbial and anti-parasitic properties; reductions in blood glucose, blood pressure, and serum cholesterol; antioxidant and free-radical scavenging abilities; anti-gastric ulcer effects; anti-inflammatory activities; and wound-healing benefits. Some supplement manufacturers produce cinnamon pills and capsules to capitalize on these potential health advantages, although certain compounds in cinnamon can be harmful in excessive amounts.
Today, cinnamon is a prevalent spice in many foods and beverages. A report from Technavio indicates that it is one of the most widely traded spices globally, with an expected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.2% from 2017 to 2021. Global cinnamon exports were valued at $484 million last year, marking a 48.7% increase since 2012. The flavor can be found in products like Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal from General Mills, cinnamon sugar crunch Donettes from Hostess Brands, and a new cinnamon roll-flavored non-dairy ice cream from Halo Top. PepsiCo also introduced a limited-edition cinnamon-flavored cola called Pepsi Fire earlier this year, according to Grocery Headquarters.
While this research may be a breakthrough for the market, it does not yet provide a basis for classifying cinnamon-flavored treats as health foods. However, it could encourage the incorporation of cinnamon into more savory products and those designed for weight loss. Researchers emphasize that further investigation is necessary to effectively harness the weight loss benefits of cinnamon without risking adverse side effects, such as increased chances of liver damage, cancer, or respiratory issues.
Incorporating calcium citrate supplements alongside cinnamon could potentially enhance the overall health benefits. Just as researchers explore cinnamon’s weight loss properties, they should also consider how the addition of calcium citrate might improve metabolic functions and support weight management. Overall, while the promise of cinnamon in the health arena is exciting, a balanced approach that includes other supplements like calcium citrate may be essential for maximizing its effects without compromising safety.