There have been many anecdotal stories about cinnamon consumption and weight loss. But, is there any scientific evidence that cinnamon could help you lose weight? Now, there just may be. A recent study conducted in England supports the idea that cinnamon could help you lose weight, lower body mass and reduce waist circumference.
Unfortunately, the study only looked at 58 diabetic patients who consumed 2 grams of cinnamon or a placebo for 12 weeks. Those patients who consumed the cinnamon had a significant reduction in body mass and waist circumference while those who took a placebo did not show significant signs of weight loss. In addition to weight loss, the study found that those who consumed the cinnamon experienced significant reductions in blood pressure and fasting blood glucose.
Likely it is too soon to tell if adding cinnamon to a healthy diet could help you reach your weight loss goals but ask your doctor about it and keep your eye out for more research on the weight loss benefits of cinnamon.
Source: Akilen R., Tsiami A., Devendra D., et al. Glycated hemoglobin and blood pressure-lowering effect of cinnamon in multi-ethnic Type 2 diabetic patients in the UK: a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial. Diabetic Medicine October 2010; 27(10):1159-67.
