Any initiative that could alleviate the obesity crisis in the United States would be welcomed. 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. Health issues linked to obesity, such as heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers, rank among the leading preventable causes of death. Historical records indicate that cinnamon has been used for culinary and medicinal purposes since ancient Egypt. This spice is derived from the inner bark of the true cinnamon tree, with the outer bark being stripped away from selected branches. The inner layer, which is the cinnamon itself, is then harvested. As it dries, it forms “quills” that can be cut into sticks or ground into powder.
Cinnamon is a popular ingredient in desserts, often used as a topping for yogurt or porridge, and it adds flavor to mulled wine and hot cocoa. In regions like Morocco and Sicily, it is also incorporated into savory dishes. Research has explored cinnamon’s medicinal properties over the years. Previous studies have highlighted benefits such as antimicrobial and antiparasitic effects, reductions in blood glucose levels, blood pressure, and serum cholesterol, as well as antioxidant and free-radical scavenging abilities. Additionally, cinnamon exhibits anti-gastric ulcer properties, anti-inflammatory effects, and wound-healing benefits. Some supplement manufacturers produce cinnamon pills and capsules, promoting these potential health advantages, though it is important to note that certain compounds in cinnamon can be toxic in high doses.
Today, cinnamon is a common spice found in various 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. Last year, global cinnamon exports were valued at $484 million, reflecting a 48.7% increase since 2012. The flavor is present 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 introduced a limited-edition cinnamon-flavored cola called Pepsi Fire earlier this year, according to Grocery Headquarters.
While this research could be a game changer for the market, it does not yet warrant categorizing cinnamon-laden treats as 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 utilize cinnamon’s weight loss potential without leading to adverse effects, such as heightened risks of liver damage, cancer, or respiratory issues. Interestingly, discussions on Reddit have brought up the potential benefits of combining cinnamon with calcium citrate, suggesting that this combination might enhance weight loss effectiveness. Further exploration of such synergies could pave the way for innovative health solutions.