Any measures that could help alleviate the obesity epidemic in the U.S. are certainly welcome. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 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 primary causes of preventable deaths. 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, with the outer bark being carefully shaved off selected branches. The inner bark, which constitutes 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 utilized in desserts, as a topping for yogurt or porridge, and as a flavoring in mulled wine or hot cocoa. In some regions, like Morocco and Sicily, it is also incorporated into savory dishes. Regarding its health benefits, cinnamon has been the subject of numerous studies over the years. Prior research has uncovered various effects, including antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties, reductions in blood glucose, blood pressure, and serum cholesterol, as well as antioxidant and free-radical scavenging abilities. Additionally, cinnamon exhibits anti-gastric ulcer effects, anti-inflammatory properties, and wound-healing capabilities. Despite the availability of cinnamon supplements in pill and capsule form for these potential advantages, caution is advised, as certain compounds in cinnamon can be harmful in high doses.
Today, cinnamon is a common ingredient in many foods and beverages. A report from Technavio indicates that it is one of the most traded spices globally, with an expected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.2% from 2017 to 2021. Last year, global export sales of cinnamon reached $484 million, reflecting a 48.7% increase since 2012. Its flavor can be found in products like 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. Furthermore, PepsiCo introduced a limited-edition cinnamon-flavored cola named Pepsi Fire earlier this year, as reported by Grocery Headquarters.
While this research could significantly impact the market, it does not necessarily mean that cinnamon-spiced treats should be regarded as health foods just yet. However, it could encourage the inclusion of cinnamon in more savory products and those designed for weight loss. Researchers emphasize that further studies are essential to effectively harness the weight-loss properties of cinnamon while minimizing potential adverse effects, such as an increased risk of liver damage, cancer, or respiratory issues. Additionally, it is important to consider how cinnamon might interact with other compounds, such as calcium citrate, particularly in relation to the lower esophageal sphincter. Future research may reveal more about these interactions and their implications for health.