Effect of cinnamon tea on anthropometric measurements and serum cholesterol level in overweight and obese individuals: A single-group pre–post study

Background: Overweight and obesity are major factors that increase the risk for various non-communicable diseases. It is the excess accumulation of adipose tissue combined with the imbalance between energy intake and expenditure. The genus Cinnamomum is commonly used to obtain the spice cinnamon; it is well known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antimicrobial properties. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted on female participants, aged between 18 years and above. Fifty milliliters of cinnamon tea, twice a day (morning on an empty stomach between 6.30 and 7.00 am ; and night between 9.00 and 9.30 pm ), 6 days a week for 4 weeks, was provided to the participants. Assessments of body weight, body mass index (BMI), mid-arm circumference (MAC), mid-thigh circumference (MTC), waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), serum total cholesterol (TC), and hemoglobin were taken before and after the intervention. Results: The study findings indicated a significant reduction in body weight, BMI, MAC, MTC, WC, HC, WHR, and TC and a significant increase in hemoglobin levels in overweight and obese patients. Conclusion: Cinnamon tea is a cost-effective, easy, and feasible daily practice for managing overweight and obesity.