Any initiatives aimed at reducing the obesity epidemic 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 issues associated with obesity, such as heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers, rank among the leading preventable causes of death. The history of cinnamon’s culinary and medicinal applications dates back to ancient Egypt. It is derived from the inner bark of the true cinnamon tree, with the outer bark being stripped from specific branches. The inner bark, which constitutes the cinnamon layer, is then removed. As it dries, it curls into “quills,” which are subsequently cut into sticks or ground into powder. Cinnamon is frequently used in desserts, as a topping for yogurt or porridge, and as a flavoring for mulled wine or hot cocoa. In regions like Morocco and Sicily, it is incorporated into savory dishes.
Regarding its medicinal properties, cinnamon has been the subject of numerous studies over the years. Previous research has highlighted effects such as antimicrobial and antiparasitic activity, reductions in blood glucose, blood pressure, and serum cholesterol, as well as antioxidant and free-radical scavenging properties, anti-gastric ulcer effects, anti-inflammatory actions, and wound-healing capabilities. Several manufacturers produce cinnamon supplements in pill and capsule form to capitalize on these potential health benefits, although some compounds found in cinnamon can be toxic if consumed in excessive amounts.
Cinnamon is a prevalent spice in many foods and beverages today. A report from Technavio notes that it is one of the most widely traded spices globally, with an expected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.2% from 2017 to 2021. Global exports of cinnamon were valued at $484 million last year, reflecting a 48.7% increase since 2012. Its flavor is present 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. Additionally, earlier this year, PepsiCo introduced a limited-edition cinnamon-flavored cola named Pepsi Fire, according to Grocery Headquarters.
While this research may represent a significant advancement for the market, it does not yet warrant the classification of cinnamon-infused treats as health foods. However, it may encourage the addition of cinnamon to more savory products and those designed for weight loss. Researchers emphasize the need for further studies to determine how to effectively utilize the spice’s weight-loss benefits without risking adverse effects, such as increased chances of liver damage, cancer, or respiratory issues. Moreover, incorporating supplements like calcium citrate Kirkland could provide additional health benefits alongside cinnamon. This notion underlines the importance of understanding how various ingredients can work together to support overall health.