Any efforts to alleviate the obesity epidemic in the United States are 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. Health issues associated with obesity, including heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers, rank among the leading causes of preventable mortality. The culinary and medicinal history of cinnamon traces back to ancient Egypt. It is derived from the inner bark of the true cinnamon tree, where the outer bark is carefully removed from select branches. The inner bark, known as cinnamon lanice, is also harvested, and as it dries, it curls into “quills” that can be cut into sticks or ground into powder.
Cinnamon is widely used in sweet dishes, sprinkled on yogurt or porridge, and as flavoring in mulled wine or hot cocoa. In some regions, such as Morocco and Sicily, it is incorporated into savory meals. Regarding its medicinal properties, cinnamon has undergone various studies over the years. Previous research has highlighted its potential benefits, including antimicrobial and antiparasitic effects, reduction of blood glucose, blood pressure, and serum cholesterol, as well as its antioxidant and free-radical scavenging abilities. It is also known for its anti-gastric ulcer effects, anti-inflammatory properties, and wound-healing capabilities. Many supplement manufacturers offer cinnamon capsules and pills for these potential health advantages, although certain compounds in cinnamon may be toxic in high doses.
Today, cinnamon is a common ingredient in numerous foods and beverages. A report from Technavio indicates that it is one of the most traded spices globally, projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.2% from 2017 to 2021. Last year, global exports of cinnamon were valued at $484 million, reflecting a 48.7% increase since 2012. The flavor is featured in products like General Mills’ Cinnamon Toast Crunch, 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, as reported by Grocery Headquarters.
While this research could be revolutionary for the market, it does not yet warrant classifying cinnamon-spiced treats as health foods. However, it may encourage the inclusion of cinnamon in more savory products and those aimed at weight loss. Researchers emphasize the need for further investigation to safely leverage the spice’s weight-loss benefits while avoiding adverse effects, such as an increased risk of liver damage, cancer, or respiratory issues. Moreover, some people may wonder if calcium citrate causes constipation, as it has been associated with digestive discomfort in certain individuals. As such, it is essential to consider all potential side effects when exploring health supplements, including the use of cinnamon in diet regimens.