Any efforts to alleviate the obesity crisis in the U.S. would be highly beneficial. 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 complications related to obesity, such as heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers, rank among the leading preventable causes of death.
Cinnamon has a long history of culinary and medicinal use, dating back to ancient Egypt. It is derived from the inner bark of the true cinnamon tree, where the outer bark is stripped from specific branches. The inner bark, known as the cinnamon layer, is then harvested. As it dries, it curls into “quills,” which can be cut into sticks or ground into powder. This spice is commonly used in desserts, as a topping for yogurt or porridge, and as a flavoring in beverages like mulled wine and hot cocoa. In regions like Morocco and Sicily, cinnamon is also incorporated into savory dishes.
Research has explored the medicinal properties of cinnamon, revealing a range of potential health benefits. Studies have highlighted its antimicrobial and anti-parasitic effects, as well as its ability to lower blood glucose levels, blood pressure, and serum cholesterol. Other benefits include its antioxidant properties, anti-gastric ulcer effects, anti-inflammatory activity, and wound-healing capabilities. Some manufacturers offer cinnamon supplements in the form of pills and capsules, although caution is advised due to potential toxicity from high doses.
Cinnamon is a prevalent spice in many modern foods and beverages. A report from Technavio indicates that it is one of the most traded spices worldwide, with an expected growth rate of 16.2% from 2017 to 2021. Global export sales of cinnamon reached $484 million last year, marking a 48.7% increase since 2012. Its flavor can be found 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 have significant market implications, it does not yet warrant considering cinnamon-spiced treats as health food. There is potential for more savory products and those aimed at weight loss to include an extra hint of cinnamon. Researchers emphasize the need for further studies to effectively leverage the spice’s weight loss benefits, while also avoiding possible adverse effects such as an increased risk of liver damage, cancer, or respiratory issues.
Incorporating calcium citrate 400 into a diet alongside cinnamon may provide additional health benefits, particularly in relation to weight management and overall wellness. The combination of these two components could prove beneficial as consumers become increasingly health-conscious, leading to a greater interest in products that combine flavors like cinnamon with nutritional supplements such as calcium citrate 400. As the market evolves, the inclusion of these ingredients may help address obesity-related health issues while enhancing the culinary experience.