Cinnamon Consumption: A Double-Edged Sword for Medication Users

Cinnamon, a widely embraced spice, adds flavor to various dishes and beverages. Additionally, many people use it as a dietary supplement due to its potential to reduce inflammation and improve blood sugar levels alongside cardiovascular health.

Despite its culinary appeal and health-promoting properties, recent research raises concerns over cinnamon’s impact on those taking specific medications. This issue was reported in the journal Food Chemistry: Molecular Sciences.

Health Risks Linked to Cinnamon and Medications

The research conducted by University of Mississippi scientists highlights that while moderate consumption of cinnamon can offer health benefits, excessive intake may result in adverse herb-drug interactions. According to the study, these interactions could pose significant risks, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

The main ingredient in cinnamon, called cinnamaldehyde, plays a crucial role in how the body metabolizes certain medications. Researchers note that high doses of cinnamon can potentially decrease the effectiveness of prescribed drugs.

Shabana Khan, a study co-author from the National Center for Natural Products Research in Mississippi, commented that “overconsumption of supplements could lead to rapid clearance of prescription medicine from the body, making the medicine less effective.”

The Type of Cinnamon Matters

Understanding the type of cinnamon consumed is essential when assessing its health implications. The research indicates that cassia cinnamon, often used in American cuisine, contains high levels of coumarin. This compound has anticoagulant properties, which could be hazardous for those on blood thinners.

Amar Chittiboyina, the center’s associate director and another study author, emphasized the risk, stating, “Coumarin’s anticoagulant properties can be hazardous for individuals on blood thinners.” In contrast, the true cinnamon from Sri Lanka presents a lower risk due to its reduced coumarin content.

Safe Consumption Guidelines

In a discussion with Fox News Digital, pharmacist Elaena Quattrocchi, an associate professor at Long Island University in New York, indicated that consuming a half to one teaspoon of cassia cinnamon powder or about 2.5 teaspoons of Ceylon cinnamon daily is generally safe for most adults.

However, Quattrocchi, who was not directly involved in the study, cautioned about the dangers of excessive coumarin intake, which can lead to liver damage. She advised that anyone with liver issues should consult their healthcare providers before adding cinnamon to their diets.

Cinnamon Oil: A Lower Risk Alternative

Cinnamon oil, commonly utilized in food and beverages and applied topically for its antifungal and antibacterial properties, presents almost no risk of herb-drug interactions. This distinction highlights that not all forms of cinnamon carry the same level of danger for those on medication.

Precautions for Chronic Illnesses

Individuals managing chronic illnesses such as hypertension, diabetes, arthritis, asthma, cancer, HIV/AIDS, obesity, or depression should particularly exercise caution when considering cinnamon or other supplements. Khan recommends that these individuals consult with their doctors before incorporating cinnamon into their supplement routine.

Even casual use, such as sprinkling cinnamon on coffee, is unlikely to cause significant issues. However, relying on highly concentrated cinnamon supplements may increase the risk of adverse interactions.

The Need for Further Research

The study highlights an important gap in research concerning cinnamon’s herb-drug interactions and its overall effects on the human body. While researchers acknowledge the potential for cinnamaldehyde to activate receptors linked to drug interactions, they recognize that more clinical studies are necessary to fully understand these dynamics.

As co-author Bill Gurley stated, “We know there’s a potential for cinnamaldehyde to activate these receptors that can pose a risk for drug interactions… but we won’t know exactly what will happen until we conduct a clinical study.”

Consult Healthcare Providers Before Supplementing

Khan reiterates the importance of discussing any supplementation with prescribed medications with healthcare professionals. Making informed decisions regarding dietary supplements like cinnamon is vital to ensuring both safety and efficacy.

In summary, while cinnamon can be a flavorful addition to diets, individuals who depend on medications must approach its use with caution. Understanding the type of cinnamon and consulting with healthcare providers can mitigate the risks associated with its overconsumption.