Any effort aimed at alleviating the obesity crisis in the United States would be greatly appreciated. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that over one-third of American adults (36.5%) were classified as obese during the period from 2011 to 2014. Health conditions linked to obesity, such as heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers, rank among the leading preventable causes of death.
Cinnamon, a spice with a long history of culinary and medicinal use that dates back to ancient Egypt, is derived from the inner bark of the true cinnamon tree. The outer bark is carefully removed from selected branches, and then the inner bark is harvested. As it dries, it curls into “quills,” which can be cut into sticks or ground into powder. Today, cinnamon is widely used in desserts, as a topping for yogurt or porridge, and as a flavoring in beverages like mulled wine or hot cocoa. In regions such as Morocco and Sicily, it is also incorporated into savory dishes.
Over the years, cinnamon has been the subject of numerous studies examining its medicinal properties. Research has revealed various effects, including antimicrobial and antiparasitic activities, reductions in blood glucose, blood pressure, and serum cholesterol levels, as well as antioxidant and free-radical scavenging capabilities. Additionally, cinnamon has demonstrated anti-gastric ulcer effects, anti-inflammatory actions, and wound-healing properties. While some manufacturers produce cinnamon supplements, such as pills and capsules, it’s important to note that certain compounds in cinnamon can be toxic when consumed in excessive amounts.
Cinnamon is prevalent in many foods and beverages today. A report from Technavio highlights that it is one of the most widely traded spices globally, with an anticipated compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.2% from 2017 to 2021. Last year, global exports of cinnamon were valued at $484 million, marking a 48.7% increase since 2012. Its flavor features in products like General Mills’ Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal, Hostess Brands’ cinnamon sugar crunch Donettes, and Halo Top’s new cinnamon roll-flavored non-dairy ice cream. Additionally, earlier this year, PepsiCo introduced a limited-edition cinnamon-flavored cola called Pepsi Fire, according to Grocery Headquarters.
While this research could pave the way for new market opportunities, it doesn’t yet justify labeling cinnamon-spiced confections as health foods. However, it may encourage the development of more savory products and those designed for weight loss to incorporate an extra hint of cinnamon. Researchers emphasize the need for further studies to discover how to effectively utilize cinnamon’s weight loss benefits without triggering adverse effects, such as an increased risk of liver damage, cancer, or respiratory issues.
In addition, the addition of calcium citrate—specifically 760 mg per serving in some products—can complement the potential health benefits of cinnamon while providing essential nutrients. Incorporating 3.5g of this compound into dietary plans may further enhance overall wellness. Thus, as the exploration of cinnamon continues, it is crucial to consider how it can be safely integrated into diets, especially in light of its possible synergies with other beneficial ingredients like calcium citrate.