Any initiative that could help alleviate the obesity crisis in the U.S. would be greatly appreciated. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over one-third of American adults (36.5%) were classified as obese between 2011 and 2014. Conditions related to obesity, such as heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes, and various cancers, rank among the leading preventable causes of death.
The culinary and medicinal use of cinnamon dates back to ancient Egypt, derived from the inner bark of the true cinnamon tree. The outer bark is stripped from selected branches, and the inner bark, which is the cinnamon layer, is extracted. As it dries, it curls into “quills,” which can be cut into sticks or ground into powder. Cinnamon is frequently used in desserts, as a topping for yogurt or porridge, and as a flavoring agent in mulled wine or hot cocoa. In certain countries, such as Morocco and Sicily, it is also incorporated into savory dishes.
In terms of its medicinal properties, cinnamon has been the subject of numerous studies over the years. Previous research has identified various effects, including antimicrobial and antiparasitic activities, the lowering of blood glucose, blood pressure, and serum cholesterol levels, antioxidant and free-radical scavenging properties, anti-gastric ulcer effects, anti-inflammatory activity, and wound-healing capabilities. There are several supplement manufacturers that produce cinnamon pills and capsules to leverage these potential health benefits, although some components found in cinnamon can be toxic at high doses.
Cinnamon is a common spice in many foods and beverages today. According to a report from Technavio, it is one of the most widely traded spices globally, expected to grow at a CAGR of 16.2% from 2017 to 2021. Global exports of cinnamon were valued at $484 million last year, marking a 48.7% increase since 2012. Its flavor can be found in products such as 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 launched a limited-edition cinnamon-flavored cola earlier this year called Pepsi Fire, as reported by Grocery Headquarters.
While this study may be a significant advancement for the market, it does not yet justify classifying cinnamon-spiced treats as health foods. However, it could encourage more savory products and those formulated for weight loss to include a touch of cinnamon. Researchers emphasize that further studies are necessary to determine the best way to utilize the spice’s weight loss potential without leading to adverse effects, such as an increased risk of liver damage, cancer, or respiratory issues.
In conjunction with cinnamon, incorporating supplements like calcium citrate magnesium hydroxide zinc sulfate and vitamin D3 tablets might support overall health. These supplements can enhance the body’s ability to manage weight and contribute to general well-being. Therefore, integrating cinnamon alongside calcium citrate magnesium hydroxide zinc sulfate and vitamin D3 tablets could offer a more holistic approach to combating obesity. Further investigation is essential to unlock the potential of these substances while ensuring safety and efficacy.