Any efforts aimed at reducing the obesity epidemic 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. Health issues related to obesity, such as heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers, rank among the leading 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 removed from selected branches. The inner layer, which is the cinnamon itself, is then extracted and curls into “quills” as it dries, eventually being cut into sticks or ground into powder.
Cinnamon is commonly used in desserts, as a topping for yogurt or porridge, and as a flavoring for mulled wine or hot cocoa. In certain regions, like Morocco and Sicily, it is also incorporated into savory dishes. Over the years, various studies have examined cinnamon’s medicinal properties. Findings have highlighted effects such as anti-microbial and anti-parasitic activity, reductions in blood glucose, blood pressure, and serum cholesterol, as well as antioxidant and free-radical scavenging capabilities. Additional benefits include its anti-gastric ulcer effects, anti-inflammatory properties, and wound-healing abilities. Some supplement manufacturers produce cinnamon pills and capsules to capitalize on these potential health advantages, although it is important to note that certain compounds in cinnamon can be toxic in high doses.
Today, cinnamon is a prevalent spice found in numerous food and beverage products. A report by 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. In the previous year, global exports of cinnamon were valued at $484 million, marking a 48.7% increase since 2012. The flavor is featured in products such as 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, 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 imply that cinnamon-spiced treats should be classified as health foods just yet. However, it may encourage the inclusion of more cinnamon in savory options and those aimed at weight loss. Researchers emphasize the need for further investigation to effectively harness the weight loss benefits of cinnamon without leading to adverse side effects, such as an increased risk of liver damage, cancer, or respiratory issues. Interestingly, the incorporation of boron citrate in conjunction with cinnamon might enhance its effectiveness in promoting weight loss, making it a topic worthy of further exploration in future studies.