Many people typically appreciate the taste of cinnamon, which has been a part of our diets for thousands of years. The essential oil called cinnamonaldehyde (CA) is what gives cinnamon its taste. Protective effects of cinnamaldehyde against obesity and hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) have previously been observed in mouse models. According to recent study from the University of Michigan, cinnamon may aid fat cells in burning fat. Scientists investigated the anti-obesity pathway of cinnamaldehyde in mouse and human cells.
Adipocytes, often referred to as fat cells, typically store energy as lipids. Those who follow a low-fat diet benefit from this process, since the body utilizes the heat it produces when it's cold outside. Scientists found that cinnamaldehyde increased the expression of several genes and enzymes that enhance lipid metabolism in adipocytes. Cinnamaldehyde also increased the proteins that have a role in thermogenesis, “the process of heat generation in organisms.” Additionally, a study found that those who are overweight or have Class I obesity may benefit from drinking cinnamon tea to help them lose weight. Accordingly, cinnamon, a popular food additive that is widely utilized in the food industry, can activate thermogenesis and lipid metabolism in adipocytes, ultimately leading to therapeutic strategies against obesity.
- Jiang, J., P. Emont, M., Jun, H., Qiao, X., Liao, J., Kim, D., & Wu, J. (2017). Cinnamaldehyde Induces Fat Cell-Autonomous Thermogenesis and Metabolic Reprogramming. Metabolism - Clinical and Experimental, 77, 58-64. Retrieved from http://www.metabolismjournal.com/S0026-0495(17)30212-3
- (2017, November 21). Cinnamon turns up the heat on fat cells. Medical Xpress. Retrieved from https://medicalxpress.com/cinnamon-fat-cells
- Hugo, K. (11/21/17). CINNAMON: HOW THIS COMMON SPICE HELPS YOU BURN FAT AND LOSE WEIGHT. Newsweek. Retrieved from http://www.newsweek.com/718476
- Mangala Gowri, P., Mary Minolin, T., Thenmozhi, P., Meena, P., & Vimala, S. (2017). Effectiveness of Cinnamon Tea in Reducing Weight Among Late Obese Adolescence. Asian Journal of Pharmaceutical and Clinical Research, 10(4), 156-159. Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/315984611
