While cinnamon is a popular spice used added to many foods, it has a long history of uses in traditional medicine in many cultures. Today, cinnamon products are sold as dietary supplements to help with a variety of healthy conditions, including treating diabetes, promoting weight loss and relieving hay fever and other inflammatory conditions. But how much is too much cinnamon? Could there be negative impacts from overconsumption of cinnamon products? People should be cautious because cinnamon could affect the metabolism of prescription drugs, according to a study published in the journal Food Chemistry: Molecular Sciences. The authors warned against overconsumption of cinnamon-containing substances, especially in individuals with other health conditions. To help us make sense of the study findings and what the major takeaways are for cinnamon consumption, I spoke with CNN wellness expert Dr. Leana Wen, an emergency physician and adjunct associate professor at George Washington University. She previously served as Baltimore’s health commissioner. CNN: What is cinnamon — where does it come from and what are its potentially beneficial health effects? Dr. Leana Wen: Cinnamon is a spice that comes the dried bark of Cinnamomum trees. The most common type of cinnamon sold in North America is Cassia cinnamon from the Cinnamomum aromaticum trees, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, which is one of the centers under the National Institutes of Health. Ceylon cinnamon, sometimes called “true” cinnamon, is from Cinnamomum verum trees. Though some studies have suggested that cinnamon supplementation could be helpful for diabetes treatment or for weight loss, more research is needed to investigate the benefits. Similarly, though preliminary research points to a possible role of nasal spray with Ceylon cinnamon as helping with allergic rhinitis, more research is needed to confirm that it could be a treatment. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health states that “research doesn’t clearly support using cinnamon for any health condition.” Cinnamon is not approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of any medical condition. CNN: What is already known about possible risks of cinnamon consumption? Wen: Cassia cinnamon may contain high levels of coumarin, which is a blood thinner. Ceylon cinnamon may also have trace amounts of coumarin. If someone who is already on anticoagulant medications ingests a large amount of coumarin, this could increase their bleeding risk. In addition, there are known interactions between coumarin and the liver. Prolonged use of cinnamon products that have high coumarin content could pose health risks for people with liver disease. Moreover, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health states there are “theoretical reasons” to think that there may be interactions between cinnamon and anticancer medications and nicotine. CNN: What did this new study examine? Wen: This new study examined the primary active ingredient of cinnamon, which is called cinnamaldehyde. Researchers first looked at whether cinnamaldehyde is well absorbed when orally ingested by examining gastric and intestinal fluids. They found that it is 100% bioaccessible in both fluids that are fasted and fed. That means that whether someone is fasting or has just eaten, cinnamaldehyde is expected to be well absorbed. They then discovered that cinnamaldehyde is rapidly metabolized into another compound, cinnamic acid, and that it can activate multiple receptors that affect drug metabolism. The possible interference with drug metabolism is what led the authors to conclude that overconsumption could induce herb-drug interactions. They urge additional research looking into these possible interactions. Until those studies are complete, as the researchers indicated in an associated news release, they recommend that people looking to take cinnamon as a dietary supplement exercise caution and consult a physician before using. CNN: Which people should use caution? Wen: According to the study’s researchers, the list of chronic conditions that should prompt caution before trying cinnamon supplementation includes hypertension, diabetes, cancer, arthritis, asthma, obesity, HIV/AIDS and depression. I would add to that list anyone using blood thinner medications — for example, someone who has a history of heart disease and stroke, any medications that are cleared through the liver, and other dietary supplements that may interact with cinnamon, including turmeric, ginseng and gingko biloba. CNN: What about sprinkling cinnamon in coffee or on pancakes? Should we be worried? Wen: The researchers are quite clear that a sprinkling of cinnamon for typical culinary use is unlikely to cause problems. What they warn against is what they refer to as “overconsumption.” This isn’t clearly defined, as their study was not set up to examine what could be too high of a level of cinnamon. What overconsumption probably refers to is using concentrated cinnamon products like cinnamon supplements over a prolonged period — for instance, taking cinnamon capsules every day for months. Individuals who are thinking of taking cinnamon supplements should be sure to consult their health care providers to check for possible medication interactions. They should also be aware that there’s no clear evidence for the benefit of cinnamon supplementation. CNN: What else would you like for people to know before starting dietary supplements? Wen: Consumers should know that the FDA does not regulate dietary supplements like they do prescription medications. Under current law, the FDA does not have the authority to regulate the efficacy of dietary supplements. The FDA also does not review supplements before they go to market. Instead, the agency relies on post-market surveillance to identify safety problems. People should be cautious about taking dietary supplements. Just because something is marketed as being “natural” doesn’t mean that it is safe. Also, something that is safe in small quantities may become unsafe in large quantities. People should always mention what supplements they are taking or thinking of taking to their health care provider to assess for drug interactions.
Cinnamon could interact with some prescription medications, according to a new study
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Study Warns of Cinnamon's Potential Interactions with Prescription Medications"
CNN
8.1
TruthLens AI Summary
Cinnamon has long been celebrated not only as a culinary spice but also for its potential health benefits, particularly in traditional medicine across various cultures. While it is commonly used as a dietary supplement for conditions such as diabetes, weight loss, and inflammation, recent research published in the journal Food Chemistry: Molecular Sciences raises concerns about the potential risks associated with excessive cinnamon consumption. The study highlights that cinnamon can interact with the metabolism of certain prescription medications, particularly due to the presence of coumarin, a compound found in Cassia cinnamon. This interaction could potentially increase the risk of bleeding in individuals taking anticoagulant medications, as well as pose health risks for those with liver disease. Experts, including Dr. Leana Wen, emphasize that while moderate culinary use of cinnamon is generally safe, individuals with chronic health conditions or those on specific medications should exercise caution and consult healthcare providers before using cinnamon supplements.
The study specifically examined cinnamaldehyde, the primary active ingredient in cinnamon, and found that it is well absorbed in the body regardless of whether a person has eaten. It is rapidly metabolized and can activate receptors that affect drug metabolism, leading to potential herb-drug interactions. The researchers recommend further studies to clarify these interactions, particularly for individuals with conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, cancer, and others. They suggest that while occasional culinary use of cinnamon, such as sprinkling it on food, is unlikely to cause issues, overconsumption through concentrated supplements could be problematic. Additionally, consumers should be aware that dietary supplements are not regulated by the FDA in the same way as prescription medications, which raises concerns about their safety and efficacy. Therefore, it is essential for individuals to discuss any supplements with their healthcare providers to mitigate risks and ensure safe use.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article explores the potential interactions between cinnamon and prescription medications, highlighting the need for caution in its consumption. It raises awareness about the possible negative effects of overconsumption, especially for individuals with existing health conditions. This topic is particularly relevant as many people turn to dietary supplements for health benefits, which may not always be safe.
Purpose and Message
The intention behind the publication seems to be to inform the public about the risks associated with cinnamon consumption, particularly in relation to prescribed medications. By emphasizing the need for moderation, the article aims to raise awareness and encourage responsible use of cinnamon as a dietary supplement.
Public Perception
The article may foster a sense of caution among consumers regarding the use of herbal supplements. It suggests that while cinnamon has potential health benefits, it is important to consider the implications of combining it with prescribed medications. This could lead to a more skeptical view of dietary supplements in general, especially when individuals might otherwise take them without consulting healthcare professionals.
Omission of Information
There doesn’t appear to be a significant attempt to hide or obscure information; rather, the article focuses on a specific aspect of cinnamon's interactions. However, it might benefit from additional context regarding the extent of cinnamon use and the specific medications affected, which could provide a clearer picture for readers.
Reliability of Information
The article cites a reputable study published in a scientific journal, which adds credibility to the claims made. However, the need for further research, as noted by Dr. Wen, suggests that the current findings are not definitive. The message is largely factual, but the emphasis on caution might lead to an exaggerated perception of risk.
Connections to Other News
In the broader context of health and wellness news, this article aligns with a trend of scrutinizing herbal supplements and their effects. It connects to ongoing discussions about the regulation and safety of dietary supplements, which has been a topic of interest in both medical and consumer advocacy circles.
Potential Societal Impact
The health implications of this article could lead to increased public discourse on the safety of herbal supplements, possibly influencing consumer behavior and prompting more people to seek professional advice before integrating such products into their health regimes. Economically, this could affect the dietary supplement market, particularly for products containing cinnamon.
Target Audience
The article is likely aimed at health-conscious individuals, consumers of dietary supplements, and those managing chronic health conditions. It may resonate particularly with audiences who are already engaged in discussions about alternative medicine and wellness.
Market Influence
While this specific article may not have immediate effects on stock markets, companies involved in the dietary supplement industry, particularly those selling cinnamon products, might experience shifts in consumer trust and sales based on the information presented.
Geopolitical Context
Although the article does not directly relate to larger geopolitical issues, it highlights the ongoing need for consumer protection and informed health choices, which is relevant in discussions about global health trends and public policy.
Use of AI
It is unlikely that AI played a significant role in crafting the article, although content generation tools could have assisted in structuring or editing the text. The balanced presentation of information suggests a careful editorial process rather than automatic generation, which may involve human oversight to ensure clarity and depth.
In summary, the article effectively communicates the need for caution regarding cinnamon consumption and its potential interactions with medications. However, it also highlights the necessity for further research to substantiate claims about its health effects. Overall, the reliability of the information is moderate, as it is based on emerging studies that require additional validation.