Cinnamon is a versatile spice that not only adds flavour to your dishes but also offers potential benefits for weight loss. From improved insulin sensitivity to appetite control and even a potential metabolism boost, cinnamon may hold the key to helping you achieve your weight loss goals in a healthy and sustainable manner. We spoke to our expert Dr Ekta Singhwal, MSc (Dietician), Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals, who listed the benefits of cinnamon for weight loss and how you can add it to your diet.
How Does Cinnamon Help Reduce Weight
According to a study published in the Journal of Food Biochemistry, it was found that the inclusion of cinnamon as a supplement leads to a notable reduction in both BMI and overall body weight.
Improved Insulin Sensitivity
Dr Singhwal said, “Cinnamon contains bioactive compounds that have been shown to enhance insulin sensitivity in the body. This improved insulin sensitivity leads to more stable blood sugar levels throughout the day.” As a result, you are less likely to experience the energy spikes and crashes that often trigger cravings for sugary and high-calorie foods. By curbing these cravings, cinnamon can make it easier for you to adhere to a healthy diet, a key factor in successful weight loss.
Appetite Control
If you find yourself battling frequent hunger pangs, cinnamon may be the solution you've been looking for. Dr Singhwal added, “It may help control your appetite by delaying the emptying of the stomach, which can result in a feeling of fullness and reduced calorie intake.”
Also Read: Can Eating Before Bed Cause Weight Loss? Here's What Expert Has To Say
Boosts Metabolism
Another important aspect of cinnamon's potential for weight loss is its ability to boost metabolism. Dr Singhwal explained, “Metabolism refers to the complex chemical processes that occur in your body to convert food into energy. A faster metabolism signifies that your body can more effectively utilise calories, even when in a state of rest.”
Dr Singhwal added, "While cinnamon won't turn you into an overnight calorie-burning machine, however, it may have a mild thermogenic effect, increasing the number of calories your body burns during digestion. This can translate into gradual but steady weight loss over time."
How to Add Cinnamon to Your Weight Loss Journey
Dr Singhwal listed ways in which you can add cinnamon to your weight loss routine:
Cinnamon Tea
One of the simplest ways to enjoy the benefits of cinnamon is by making cinnamon tea. Just add a cinnamon stick or a teaspoon of ground cinnamon to a cup of hot water, and let it steep for a few minutes. You can enhance the flavour with a touch of honey or a slice of lemon.
According to a study by the Asian Journal of Pharmaceutical and Clinical Research on 30 people, cinnamon tea helps in weight reduction.
Cinnamon Smoothies
Dr Singhwal noted, “You can boost the nutrition of your morning smoothie by adding some cinnamon. It pairs well with fruits like bananas, apples, and berries, creating a tasty and weight-loss-friendly beverage.”
Cinnamon in Oatmeal
Another way of consuming cinnamon is by sprinkling it over your morning oatmeal or cereal to add flavour and potential weight loss benefits.
Also Read: Cinnamon Can Protect You From Prostate Cancer: ICMR Study
Cinnamon Coffee
If you're a coffee lover, try adding a pinch of cinnamon to your coffee grounds before brewing. This can give your morning brew a unique flavour and may help control your appetite throughout the day.
Cinnamon Supplements
If you find it challenging to incorporate cinnamon into your diet regularly, consider taking cinnamon supplements, available in various forms such as capsules or extracts. However, it's essential to seek guidance from a healthcare professional before adding any supplements into your dietary regimen.
[Disclaimer: The information in this article is shared by a medical professional and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your dietician before adding anything new to your diet.]
