Shake, shake—that may be all it takes to turn up fat burning. Past studies have linked cinnamon to healthier metabolism so a curious group of scientists decided to dig a bit deeper. For this study, they exposed the fat cells taken from a broad range of study subjects, including those of various weights and health status, to cinnamaldehyde, the “active” ingredient responsible for cinnamon’s flavor. What they observed was striking. The cinnamaldehyde activated several genes and proteins involved in the metabolism of lipids and stored fat, including two known for their ability to boost thermogenesis. Thermogenesis is the process by which fat cells burn fat to produce heat.

Although further studies are needed to determine how best to leverage cinnamaldehyde for weight control, we can all safely enjoy cinnamon right now. Enjoy a liberal shake or two in your morning coffee or tea, cereal, oatmeal, smoothies, yogurt, kefir, or in your baking. I sure do!

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