Any initiative aimed at alleviating the obesity crisis in the U.S. would be greatly appreciated. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that over one-third of American adults (36.5%) were classified as obese between 2011 and 2014. Conditions related to obesity, such as heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers, rank among the leading preventable causes of death.
Historically, cinnamon has been utilized for both culinary and medicinal purposes, with records tracing back to ancient Egypt. Derived from the inner bark of the true cinnamon tree, the process involves stripping the outer bark 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. Cinnamon is frequently incorporated into desserts, used as a topping for yogurt or porridge, and added as a flavoring agent in mulled wine or hot cocoa. In regions like Morocco and Sicily, it is also featured in savory dishes.
Regarding its health benefits, cinnamon has been the subject of numerous studies over the years. Previous research has highlighted its various effects, which include antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties, reductions in blood glucose, blood pressure, and serum cholesterol, antioxidant capabilities, anti-gastric ulcer effects, anti-inflammatory properties, and wound healing. Many supplement manufacturers produce cinnamon pills and capsules to promote these potential health benefits; however, caution is advised, as certain compounds in cinnamon can be harmful in high doses.
Cinnamon is a common ingredient in many foods and beverages today. A report from Technavio indicates that it is one of the most widely traded spices globally and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.2% from 2017 to 2021. Last year, global sales from exported cinnamon reached $484 million, marking a 48.7% increase since 2012. Its flavor is found in products such as General Mills’ Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal, Hostess Brands’ cinnamon sugar crunch Donettes, and a new cinnamon roll-flavored non-dairy ice cream from Halo Top. Additionally, PepsiCo launched a limited-edition cinnamon-flavored cola, named Pepsi Fire, earlier this year, according to Grocery Headquarters.
While this research could pave the way for market advancements, it should not yet lead to the perception that cinnamon-spiced treats are health foods. However, it may encourage the inclusion of additional cinnamon in savory products and those aimed at weight loss. Researchers emphasize the need for further studies to effectively harness the weight-loss properties of this spice without risking adverse effects, such as increased chances of liver damage, cancer, or respiratory issues.
For those interested in enhancing their health regimen, products like Citracal, available at Walgreens, can serve as a complementary supplement to a balanced diet that may include cinnamon. Integrating cinnamon into daily meals could potentially support weight management efforts, and with the right guidance and further research, it may play a beneficial role in combatting obesity in the U.S.