Any initiative aimed at addressing the obesity issue in the United States would be greatly appreciated. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that over one-third of adults in the U.S. (36.5%) were classified as obese between 2011 and 2014. Obesity is linked to numerous health complications, such as heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers, which rank among the top causes of preventable deaths.
The culinary and medicinal uses of cinnamon trace back to ancient Egypt. It is derived from the inner bark of the true cinnamon tree, with the outer bark being shaved off certain branches. The inner layer, known as cinnamon, is extracted, and as it dries, it curls into “quills” that are either cut into sticks or ground into powder. Cinnamon is widely utilized in desserts, as a topping for yogurt or porridge, and as a flavoring in mulled wine or hot cocoa. In 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. Research has indicated various effects, including antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties, reductions in blood glucose, blood pressure, and serum cholesterol levels, as well as antioxidant and free-radical scavenging effects. Additionally, cinnamon has shown anti-gastric ulcer effects, anti-inflammatory activity, and wound-healing capabilities. Many supplement manufacturers offer cinnamon pills and capsules, promoting these potential health benefits, although some compounds in cinnamon can be harmful in excessive amounts.
Cinnamon can be found in a variety of foods and beverages today. A report from Technavio indicates it is one of the most traded spices globally, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.2% from 2017 to 2021. In the last year, global cinnamon exports reached a value of $484 million, reflecting a 48.7% increase since 2012. The flavor is featured in products like Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal from General Mills, cinnamon sugar crunch Donettes from Hostess Brands, and a new cinnamon roll-flavored non-dairy ice cream from Halo Top. Moreover, PepsiCo introduced a limited-edition cinnamon-flavored cola earlier this year called Pepsi Fire.
While these findings could significantly impact the market, they do not necessarily indicate that cinnamon-flavored treats should be categorized as health foods just yet. However, it may encourage the incorporation of cinnamon into more savory items, as well as those designed for weight loss. Researchers emphasize that further studies are essential to effectively leverage the weight loss benefits of cinnamon without leading to adverse side effects, such as an increased risk of liver damage, cancer, or breathing issues.
Additionally, incorporating supplements like calcium citrate 200mg may complement the health effects of cinnamon, enhancing its potential benefits. As interest in cinnamon continues to rise, the combination of cinnamon and calcium citrate 200mg could offer a promising avenue for those seeking to manage their weight and improve their overall health.