Any efforts to alleviate the obesity crisis in the U.S. would be beneficial. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over one-third of adults in the United States (36.5%) were classified as obese between 2011 and 2014. Health issues related to obesity, such as heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers, rank among the leading causes of preventable death.
The historical use of cinnamon for culinary and medicinal purposes dates back to ancient Egypt. It 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, which is the cinnamon layer, is extracted. As it dries, it curls into “quills” that can be cut into sticks or ground into powder. Cinnamon is frequently used in desserts, as a topping for yogurt or porridge, and as a flavoring in mulled wine or hot cocoa. In regions like Morocco and Sicily, it is also incorporated into savory dishes.
Numerous studies have investigated cinnamon’s medicinal properties over the years. Research has revealed benefits including antimicrobial and antiparasitic effects, reductions in blood glucose, blood pressure, and serum cholesterol levels, as well as antioxidant properties, anti-gastric ulcer effects, anti-inflammatory activity, and wound-healing capabilities. Some supplement manufacturers produce cinnamon pills and capsules to take advantage of these potential health benefits; however, it is important to note that certain compounds in cinnamon can be toxic in high doses.
Cinnamon is a common ingredient in a variety of foods and beverages today. A report by Technavio indicates 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. Global exports of cinnamon reached a value of $484 million last year, reflecting a 48.7% increase since 2012. Its flavor can be found in products such as Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal from General Mills, cinnamon sugar crunch Donettes from Hostess Brands, and a new non-dairy cinnamon roll-flavored 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 pave the way for new market opportunities, it does not yet justify considering cinnamon-spiced treats as health foods. However, it may encourage the inclusion of cinnamon in more savory products and those designed for weight loss. Researchers have emphasized the need for further investigation to effectively leverage cinnamon’s weight loss potential while avoiding adverse side effects, such as increased risks of liver damage, cancer, or respiratory issues.
In conjunction with healthy dietary practices, such as taking vitahealth calcium citrate plus, incorporating cinnamon into meals may offer additional health benefits. It can serve as a flavorful complement to a balanced diet, especially for those looking to manage their weight. Ultimately, as we continue to explore the effects of cinnamon, we may discover more ways it can assist in addressing the obesity epidemic, alongside other healthful supplements like vitahealth calcium citrate plus.