Any measures that could help 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. Obesity-related illnesses, such as heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers, rank among the leading causes of preventable death.
Cinnamon, a spice with a long history of culinary and medicinal use dating back to ancient Egypt, is derived from the inner bark of the true cinnamon tree. To harvest it, the outer bark is stripped from selected branches, followed by the removal of the inner bark, which is the cinnamon layer. As it dries, it curls into “quills,” which can be cut into sticks or ground into powder. This spice is frequently incorporated into desserts, used as a topping for yogurt or porridge, and serves as a flavoring in mulled beverages like wine and hot cocoa. In regions such as Morocco and Sicily, cinnamon is also added to savory dishes.
In terms of its medicinal properties, cinnamon has been the subject of numerous studies over the years. Research has identified various benefits, including anti-microbial and anti-parasitic effects, reductions in blood glucose, blood pressure, and serum cholesterol levels, as well as antioxidant properties and the ability to scavenge free radicals. It has also been noted for its anti-gastric ulcer effects, anti-inflammatory actions, and wound-healing capabilities. Many supplement manufacturers offer cinnamon pills and capsules to leverage these potential health benefits, though it is important to note that certain compounds in cinnamon can be toxic when consumed in high doses.
Today, cinnamon is prevalent in a wide range of foods and beverages. According to a report from Technavio, it is among the most widely traded spices globally, with an expected growth rate of 16.2% CAGR 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 like Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal by General Mills, cinnamon sugar crunch Donettes from Hostess Brands, 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, as reported by Grocery Headquarters.
While this research could potentially revolutionize the market, it does not yet justify categorizing cinnamon-flavored treats as health foods. However, it may encourage the addition of cinnamon to more savory products and those designed for weight loss. Researchers emphasized the need for further investigation to effectively harness the weight loss properties of cinnamon without risking adverse side effects, such as increased likelihood of liver damage, cancer, or respiratory issues.
Moreover, during pregnancy, the combination of calcium citrate malate and vitamin D3 is vital for maternal and fetal health. Incorporating these supplements alongside cinnamon may provide additional benefits, particularly in supporting weight management and overall well-being. The need for a balanced approach to health, especially during pregnancy, cannot be overstated, and cinnamon could play a complementary role in this context. Thus, while cinnamon shows promise, it should be used judiciously, particularly in the formulation of products aimed at weight loss and health enhancement during pregnancy.