In the ever-evolving field of nutrition, we persistently unearth the surprising health treasures in our daily staples. Cinnamon, a humble yet aromatic spice, emerges as one such revelation. More than just a comforting addition that imparts richness to our dishes, this powerhouse ingredient has gained recognition for its potential role in weight loss.
In this article, we will focus on the possible benefits of cinnamon for weight loss. We’ll look at everything you should think about before you start using cinnamon supplements in your weight loss plan. We’ll cover everything from how it may help with weight control to whether or not using cinnamon pills is practical. In short, this article aims to completely understand this popular spice and its role in weight loss.
The Potential Benefits of Cinnamon Pills for Weight Loss
Cinnamon has long been recognized for its unique properties beyond its familiar scent and flavor. Recent research suggests that cinnamon – specifically in pill form – may assist with weight loss.
It’s important to note that there’s no such thing as a miracle diet pill. Losing weight effectively usually involves modifying your diet by reducing portion sizes and increasing physical activity levels. However, integrating more cinnamon into your diet might be an additional tool in achieving your weight goals.
How Do Cinnamon Pills Aid Weight Loss?
The connection between cinnamon and weight management is still under investigation, with mixed results so far. However, some studies show encouraging signs that supplementing your diet with cinnamon pills can contribute to weight loss.
One potential explanation lies in the compounds found within cinnamon known as flavanols. These compounds have been suggested to protect against obesity according to a review published in Nutrition, Metabolism & Cardiovascular Diseases.
Moreover, researchers have noted that cinnamon can delay gastric emptying – the time it takes food to move through one’s stomach. A slower rate of gastric emptying can enhance feelings of fullness after eating, which may help reduce overall calorie intake.
“Cinnamon may slightly aid with weight loss,” says Dawn Jackson Blatner RDN, author of The Superfood Swap. “While it’s not a magic bullet solution for obesity or overweight issues, adding some amount of this spice into meals could potentially help individuals feel satiated longer.”
Precautions When Taking Cinnamon Pills
Before incorporating any dietary supplement into your routine – including cinnamon pills – it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional such as a doctor or registered dietitian.
Cassia cinnamon – the variety usually found in supplements – contains coumarin, which could potentially harm liver health if consumed excessively, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH)[. Moreover, some people might be allergic or sensitive to this spice.
Furthermore, herbal supplements like these aren’t regulated by regulatory bodies like Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as strictly as pharmaceutical medications, which means product quality isn’t always guaranteed.
Alternatives: Using Whole Cinnamon for Weight Management
If you’re skeptical about supplements but still want to experience potential benefits from this aromatic spice, consider using whole sticks or ground powdered form instead.
You can purchase whole sticks or fresh-ground powdered forms from most grocery stores. There are countless ways you can incorporate them into meals; they make excellent additions when used sparingly on top of almond butter on toast or even added directly into savory stews or soups.
As Jackson Blatner suggests, “adding one teaspoon of ground cinnamon daily seems like an easy way not only add wonderful flavors but possibly gain slight health advantages too.”
Conclusion: Should You Try Cinnamon Pills For Weight Loss?
While initial research shows promise regarding the role of this aromatic spice’s dietary and supplementary plays in managing body weight, more comprehensive evidence is needed before definitive claims can be made about their effectiveness.
Ultimately, whether you choose supplements over dietary methods should depend on factors such as personal preferences, convenience, affordability, and other considerations discussed above.
Always consult healthcare professionals before starting any new nutritional supplements, especially if you have pre-existing conditions undergoing specific treatments, pregnant, breastfeeding, etc.
Keeping an overall balanced approach towards maintaining a healthy weight remains a crucial component of successful strategies, i.e., adopting balanced diets engaging in regular physical activities, ensuring adequate sleep, and managing stress levels properly.
References:
- Is Too Much Cinnamon Bad for You?
- Cinnamon Supplementation Improves Blood Pressure
- Flavanols Protect Against Obesity
- Gastric Emptying Delayed By Dietary Fiber
- Dawn Jackson Blatner Interview
- National Center For Complementary And Integrative Health On Cassia Cinnamomum
- U.S FDA On Herbal Supplement Regulations
