“Exploring Cinnamon’s Potential Role in Combating Obesity: A Dual Approach with Calcium Citrate Supplements”
Any potential solution to reduce the obesity epidemic 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 from 2011 to 2014. Health issues linked to obesity, such as heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes, and various cancers, rank among the top preventable causes of death. The use of cinnamon for culinary and medicinal purposes can be traced back to ancient Egypt. It is derived from the inner bark of the true cinnamon tree, where the outer bark is carefully removed from specific branches. The inner layer, which comprises the cinnamon itself, is then extracted, and as it dries, it curls into “quills” that can be sliced into sticks or ground into powder. Cinnamon is frequently utilized in desserts, as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal, and as a flavor enhancer in mulled wine or hot chocolate. In regions like Morocco and Sicily, it is also incorporated into savory dishes.
In terms of its medicinal properties, cinnamon has been the subject of various studies over the years. Previous research has highlighted benefits such as antimicrobial and antiparasitic effects, reductions in blood glucose, blood pressure, and serum cholesterol levels, as well as antioxidant qualities and free-radical scavenging capabilities. Cinnamon has also shown anti-gastric ulcer effects, anti-inflammatory properties, and wound-healing benefits. As a result, several supplement manufacturers produce cinnamon pills and capsules to leverage these potential health advantages, although caution is advised due to the presence of certain compounds in cinnamon that may be toxic in high doses.
Today, cinnamon is a common spice found in numerous foods and beverages. A report from Technavio indicates that it is one of the most traded spices globally, with an expected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.2% from 2017 to 2021. Last year, global cinnamon exports were valued at $484 million, reflecting a 48.7% increase since 2012. The flavor is featured 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 named Pepsi Fire earlier this year, as noted by Grocery Headquarters.
While this research could pave the way for significant market developments, it does not yet classify cinnamon-spiced 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 investigation to effectively harness the weight loss benefits of cinnamon without incurring adverse effects, such as heightened risks of liver damage, cancer, or respiratory issues. Moreover, the inclusion of calcium citrate in dietary supplements could enhance the overall health benefits, as calcium plays a crucial role in various bodily functions and may support metabolic processes related to weight management. Thus, a focus on pairing cinnamon with calcium citrate supplements might be an avenue worth exploring to maximize health benefits.
